When is the best time to get a passport?

Understanding when to get a passport depends on two major factors: the date of your planned trip and the time of the year.

In general, you'd want to avoid peak holiday times that could cause passport applications to surge. Think of all the major travel times to get an idea:

  • Spring break: April, May, June
  • Summer vacations: May, June, July,
  • Labor Day
  • Winter holidays: November and December

There's a good chance you might apply during these times and run into no issues regarding waiting time for your passport. It really depends on the influx of applications and the staff working to process them.

But do you really want to take any chances? Probably not. So, if you're trying to decide when to get a passport, do it before you even plan a trip - preferably, several months out.

Apply for a passport when you don't need it and you'll be glad you have it ready to go.

Show All Answers

1. What's the difference between the passport book and the passport card?
2. When is the best time to get a passport?
3. What application form should I use?
4. What documents do I need to get a passport?
5. Can I renew my expired passport here?
6. When is the best time to renew my passport?
7. What do I need to change my name on my passport?
8. How long is the passport good for?
9. Can I use my passport book or passport card instead of the REAL ID or the Enhanced ID when flying within the U.S.?
10. What is the Next Generation Passport?
11. My Passport is expired, but my Visa is not. Is my Visa still valid?
12. Do you take passport photos? Printed or digital?
13. What are the passport photo requirements?
14. Can I bring my own photo?
15. How much does a passport cost?
16. What forms of payment do you accept?
17. How long will it take to get my passport?
18. Can I get my passport faster?
19. I already applied for my passport. Where is it?
20. What color pen can I use?
21. Do you offer notary services?
22. Does the applicant have to be present even if they are a minor?
23. How can I reach the state if I have additional questions or concerns?
24. Can I come here for your passport services even if I am from outside the City of New Brighton, Ramsey county, or even from outside the state of Minnesota?