Applying for a first U.S. passport can feel overwhelming, but the U.S. Department of State’s passport acceptance fairs are designed to simplify the process.
These events, often walk-in friendly and scheduled during evenings or weekends, let new applicants get personal assistance without the hassle of booking an appointment in advance—removing one of the main obstacles to getting started.
What is a passport acceptance fair?
A passport acceptance fair makes passport application services accessible outside of standard business hours for first-time applicants and families.
What happens at a passport acceptance fair?
Those who attend a passport acceptance fair will be able to receive walk-in service, on-site assistance throughout the application process, accommodation for flexible hours and all steps completed in one place.
Do I need an appointment?
Although some passport acceptance fairs do require an appointment, many do not. Appointments aren’t necessary to attend these upcoming passport acceptance fairs near NYC:
- 🗓️ Wednesday, September 17th (10am – 2pm): Bergen County Clerk (59 Anderson Avenue), Fairview, NJ
- 🗓️ Monday, September 22nd (2pm – 5pm): Somerset County Clerk (459 Shasta Drive), Bridgewater, NJ
- 🗓️ Wednesday, September 24th (10am – 2pm): Bergen County Clerk (350 Hudson Avenue), Washington Township, NJ
- 🗓️ Wednesday, October 1st (10am – 3pm): Country Connection (82 Lacey Road), Whiting, NJ
- 🗓️ Tuesday, October 14th (9am – 3pm): Country Connection (1 Darby Circle), Brick, NJ
- 🗓️ Saturday, October 18th (9am – 1pm): Otsego County Clerks Office (1648 NY-7), Unadilla, NY
- 🗓️ Saturday, October 25th (10am – 1pm): Country Connection (319 W Cala Breeze Way), Mystic Islands, NJ
- 🗓️ Saturday, October 25th (10am – 1pm): Country Connection (319 W Cala Breeze Way), Mystic Islands, NJ
- 🗓️ Wednesday, October 29th (11am – 3pm): Ferguson Library (735 Anderson Hill Road), Purchase, NY
Can anyone attend a passport acceptance fair?
Passport fairs are specifically geared toward:
- First-time U.S. passport applicants
- Children under 16 (who must apply in person)
- Those who need in-person assistance or flexible hours
Do note that routine passport renewals are not available at passport fairs.
What do I need to bring?
- Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
- Proof of identity (government-issued photo ID)
- Photocopy of both sides of the ID
- Completed DS-11 form (if possible, fill out online and print to bring)
- Passport-compliant photo (available at pharmacies or some event sites)
- For minors: documentation for parent/guardian consent
Do I get my passport faster?
Applying for a passport at a passport acceptance fair does not mean faster processing times. Your application will follow the routine (6-8 weeks) or expedited (2-3 weeks) processing times depending on your selection. See how to get your passport more urgently here.
