Passport Center to offer expanded hours May 15

The Arkansas Passport Center is hosting a special event to accept applications for U.S. passport books and passport cards on May 15, when the facility at 191 Office Park Drive will be open from 3 to 6 p.m.

The event is part of the U.S. Department of State’s family travel campaign, which promotes parents applying early for their child’s passport before the busy summer travel season. Weekday evening hours make it easier to apply in person around a family’s school and work schedules.

Parents and legal guardians must apply in-person with youths who are younger than 16 years old. If a parent or guardian cannot apply in-person, the department has special requirements for “parental consent,” depending on the family’s situation. Visit travel.state.gov/passports/ children for more information.

Forms of payment include credit card, personal check, money orders or exact cash. No change is given.

Applicants may choose routine service, four to six weeks, or expedited service, two to three weeks, on May 15. Expedited service costs an additional $60. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are also accepted. Appointments can be made online or by calling the National Passport Information at 877-487-2778.

For information on passport forms and fees, visit Travel.State. Gov.