Six new passport offices will be established in cities such as Kansas City, Orlando, and Charlotte.

To keep pace with the rising number of Americans obtaining passports, the U.S. Department of State plans to increase its network of passport agencies, centers, and acceptance facilities.

According to the agency, nearly 50% of all Americans hold a U.S. passport, with over 24 million passport books and cards issued last year.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, "To better accommodate the increasing number of Americans applying for U.S. passports, the Department is taking measures to create six new passport agencies." He added that these offices will be located in Salt Lake City, UT; Kansas City, MO; Orlando, FL; Charlotte, NC; San Antonio, TX; and Cincinnati, OH, emphasizing the commitment to provide efficient services closer to residents.

With the addition of these new locations, there will be a total of 35 passport agencies and centers, along with over 7,400 public passport acceptance facilities across the United States.

"As we start planning for these new facilities, we will share information regarding the anticipated opening timeline," a spokesperson from the State Department mentioned in an email.

First-time adult passport applicants are required to apply in person after gathering the necessary application documents listed online. Those renewing their passports can do so by mail or online; however, the online renewal system currently accommodates a limited number of applicants each day on a first-come, first-served basis.

The fees for passport books and cards are $130 and $30, respectively, totaling $160 for both a passport book and a card.

The current processing times for passports are six to eight weeks for routine service and two to three weeks for expedited service. The State Department recommends that travelers renew or apply for their passports at least six months prior to their trip. Additionally, those renewing should be aware that many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months upon entry.