Lynn post office to host passport day

LYNN – Unlike years gone by, Americans can no longer travel to Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda without a passport.The change in regulations has caused a stampede at the passport counter and long delays, sometimes more than two months.To alleviate the crush for those planning to travel abroad, the U.S. Post Office at 51 Willow St. will hold a special Passport Day on Saturday, March 8, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.”These special hours should prove helpful to persons with children who need passports,” said Postmaster John P. Meuse.The Post Office will also take passport photos for $15, making the procedure a one-stop process, according to Robert Boisselle, a U.S. Postal Service spokesman.Meuse recommended those applying for a passport do so at least two months before their travel departure date to avoid extra costs associated with expedited applications. Evidence of citizenship, two passport photos and current photo identification are required to complete the application process.Passport fees can be paid by check or cash. The price is $100 for those age 16 and over, $85 for those under age 16, and $75 for renewals. For more information, call the Lynn post office at 781-586-9080.To save time, passport applications can be downloaded at www.usps.com/passport and be completed before entering the post office.