Allendale, NJ— To make it easier to apply for a U.S. Passport, Postmaster Melanie Matthews is announcing a special Passport Fair will be held on Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Allendale Main Post Office, 2 Myrtle Avenue.  In addition to the expanded passport acceptance hours, extra staffing will be on hand to assist customers.  Postmaster Matthews emphasizes no appointment is necessary for the Passport Fair, walk-ins are welcome, and passport photo service will also be available.

To save time and simplify the submission process, postal officials recommend bringing original documents and following these guidelines:

• Download and complete a passport application at www.travel.state.gov beforehand. 
• Bring proper proof of U.S. citizenship (as shown on the application DS-11 dated 09/2013)
• Bring proof of identity.  This must be either: a recently issued U.S. passport; a recently issued naturalization certificate; a recently issued certificate of citizenship; or a current valid driver’s license, government ID or military photo ID.
• Bring a photocopy of your proof of identity.  Each applicant must bring a front and back photocopy of the ID that will be presented at the time of passport acceptance.
• The passport application requires a recent passport photograph of you (2” x 2” in size).
• All applicants must appear in person (including minors).
• Minors under the age of 16 must appear with both parents.  If one parent is not available, a notarized authorization from the absent parent is required.

The U.S. Department of State provides detailed guidelines for preparing passport applications and supporting documents as well as current processing times on their website at: www.travel.state.gov. 

If you are in a hurry, the Allendale Postmaster suggests Priority Mail Express Service to and from the passport agency.  In addition to expedited handling, the shipment can be tracked online.

Feel free to contact Postmaster Melanie Matthews at 201-236-9473 with any questions about the March 21 Passport Fair.

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