Kearns Sponsors Special One Stop Passport Acceptance Fairs
County Clerk to hold events at select AAA Western and Central New York Travel Centers
Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns announced that his office will be conducting “Passports on the Move” outreach events in March at select AAA Travel and Insurance Centers throughout Erie County. This community event is for first-time passport applicants only. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at (716) 858-8864.
These passport events will be held on “Travel Tuesdays” from 5pm-7pm at the following AAA of Western and Central New York branch offices: Amherst/Williamsville, March 12th and KenTon, March 26th.
“I am pleased to bring this popular service to residents of Erie County, along with our community partners at AAA of Western and Central New York,” said County Clerk Kearns. “Our main objective is to make County government more customer-centered, including offering easily accessible locations for travelers to apply for their U.S. passport.”
Applicants will be able to apply for a passport card, passport book or both. Payment must be in the form of check or money order. No cash or credit cards will be accepted. “I encourage anyone planning an upcoming spring vacation or college students preparing for a semester abroad to schedule an appointment for our ‘Passports on the Move’ event while current wait times to receive a first-time passport are minimal at 6-8 weeks,” Kearns stated.
A certified copy of birth certificate and proof of identity such as a current New York State driver’s license or nondriver identification card is required in order for any application to be accepted. Passport photos can be taken on-site and are available for $8.95, plus tax for AAA members and $12.95, plus tax for non-members.
“International travel is back! 2024 is already proving to be a busy year with travelers looking to experience cultures and make memories around the globe. AAA urges travelers to get all the tools in place so they can embark on memorable trips this year, and step one is making sure you have a valid passport,” said Elizabeth Carey, Director of Public Relations and Corporate Communications at AAA Western and Central New York. “Passports on the Move simplifies the passport process, and provides a valuable, convenient service for travelers.”
Current passport holders with less than 6 months validity remaining are encouraged to follow the instructions on how to renew their passport by mail at travel.state.gov/passports. Passport applications, a list of all required documents and a schedule of fees are available by visiting erie.gov/passports or by contacting the Erie County Clerk’s Office Outreach Center at (716) 858-8864.