KEARNS TO PROVIDE EXTENDED HOURS FOR PASSPORT APPLICANTS AT ERIE COUNTY CLERK’S OUTREACH CENTER
Passports and Passport Cards Both Meet the REAL ID Compliant Standard Beginning May 7, 2025
As the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID approaches, Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns reminds residents that they can use passports and passport cards for domestic travel and access to federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. These documents serve as alternatives to REAL ID when the new travel regulations take effect.
To assist the traveling public in meeting the new federal compliance standard, the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center, located at 1088 Union Road, next to the Auto Bureau in Southgate Plaza, will have extended hours from March 24 to 27. During this period, the center will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering an additional two hours of service. This event is open to the public—no appointment is necessary.
“As the REAL ID deadline approaches, we encourage residents to review their identification and travel documents to ensure a smooth travel experience,” Kearns stated. “If obtaining a passport or passport card is the best option for you, the Clerk’s Outreach Center is ready to assist first-time applicants with the process. Passport cards are an excellent, affordable alternative that provide a quick way to ensure you are prepared for domestic air travel as well as access to federal facilities.”
Erie County residents will be able to apply for a passport card, passport book, or both. For any application to be processed, proof of citizenship is mandatory and must include one of the following: a certified birth certificate issued by a city, county, or state; an original Naturalization certificate; or a previously issued passport book or card. Additionally, proof of identity, such as a current New York State driver’s license or non-driver identification card, is required.
Kearns added, “Currently, new passport applications can take 4 to 6 weeks to process, which coincides with the May 7th deadline. To ensure that travelers are not left behind, this is an ideal time to apply for a passport book or card to comply with the REAL ID requirements.”
Payment must be made via personal check or money order; no cash will be accepted. Each passport for an adult requires a check or money order for $130, payable to the U.S. Department of State, and a separate check for $35, payable to the Erie County Clerk. Fees for children under 16 are $100, payable to the U.S. Department of State, and $35, payable to the Erie County Clerk. Passport photos can be taken on-site for $10.
Passport applications, a list of all required documents, and a complete 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.
You can apply for a U.S. Passport at one of the two Erie County Clerk’s Office locations: Old County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, or the Clerk’s Outreach Center, 1088 Union Road, West Seneca, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours until 7 PM on Thursdays. Visit either location during these hours for assistance with your passport application or any other services related to the Erie County Clerk’s Office.
To learn more about the REAL ID and review the list of acceptable documents needed to meet the new compliance standards or to schedule a DMV appointment online, please visit erie.gov/clerk/REALID.