State Dept. Urges Travelers To Renew Passports As Millions Set To Expire

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The State Department is on a mission to get people to renew their passports early, in anticipation of an influx of applications as millions of passports are set to expire over the next three years.

"We know in the next three years about 47 million passports will expire," Deputy Assistant of Passport Services Brenda Sprauge said.

Sprague says they do not want to see a repeat of the long lines and frustration that occurred in 2007, when the Western Hemisphere Travel initiative went into effect -- requiring passports for travel into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Carribbean, WCBS 880's Marla Diamond reported. 

The new requirement prompted millions to apply for a passport for the first time, causing backlogging issues and delays.

"We don't want anybody to be disappointed," Sprague said. "We know the surge is coming, we've done everything we can to increase capacity."

Sprague recommends that anyone whose passport is set to expire in the next three years to renew now to avoid potential delays. Those looking to apply for a passport for the first time must submit an application in person at a designated post office. Those looking to renew can submit their applications by mail for a fee.

Many countries are also denying entry to travelers with passports less than six months of validity -- another reason to consider a renewal for those planning to travel this year.