Passport fairs coming to North Idaho

SANDPOINT — Do you have a passport that recently expired or is expiring in the next year, or need a new one in general?

U.S. Reps. Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson as well as U.S. Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, in coordination with the U.S. Department of State, are hosting seven passport fairs to be held throughout the state from May 29 to June 1, the first of which is being held in Sandpoint. 

“Idahoans in need of a passport, or those whose passports have expired or will expire in the next year, may register for an appointment,” said Fulcher’s interim communication director Marisa Melton.

Sandpoint’s fair will take place Wednesday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sandpoint City Hall. Everyone is welcome to show up to the events to update or get a first-time passport. Pre-registration is required and appointments should be made in advance. Visit bit.ly/3US4NX5 to schedule an appointment.

“We recognize the high demand for passport services within Idaho’s fast-growing population,” Idaho’s congressional delegation said. “Without a permanent passport office in-state, events like these will help Idahoans obtain expedited passport services closer to home. Our staff continues to work diligently to meet the needs of Idahoans seeking assistance with passport-related issues and applications.”

A fair will also be held in Coeur d’Alene on Thursday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Station No. 3. Visit bit.ly/3UBsmlB to schedule an appointment.

According to the U.S. Department of State, there are dress requirements for passport photos. Uniforms cannot be worn for the photo unless they are part of a religious outfit that is worn daily. Hats or head coverings that obscure hair are prohibited unless worn for religious reasons. However, the head covering may not cast shadows on or cover the face.

Headphones or wireless devices of any kind are not permitted in photos. Eyeglasses are also no longer allowed in passport photos and must be removed for the picture. If a hearing device such as hearing aids are normally worn, they can be photographed.

Information: bit.ly/4dsxqRX