U.S. Travelers Face New Passport Rules
Restrictions on Re-Entry From Caribbean, Mexico, Canada Mean Many Must Get Documents Soon == YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO RETURN TO THE USA WITH OUT ONE AS OF JAN 8TH... SO DON'T LEAVE HOME WITH OUT ONE...

One pitfall for travelers to watch out for: All children, including babies, will need passports. Since July 2001, the government has required both parents to apply together for a child's passport, if the child is 14 or under. This is to make sure one parent isn't trying to take a child out of the country without the other's permission. It can be a hassle for single parents who have to prove they have sole authority or need to get notarized consent from the other parent.

ARE YOU ONE OF THE %75 - IF SO GET IN LINE FAST...

The travel industry and several border-state governors and senators have been pushing for a delay in the new rules, fearing confusion and long delays for travelers that could hurt the cruise industry in particular. Only 25% of Americans have passports, and many could be left high and dry if they don't get one before they head off to an island cruise. As requirements tighten, more people have been applying. Last year, the State Department issued 10.1 million passports, up 15% from 2004. This year is on pace for about a 16% increase.

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