As of June 1, 2009 – All travelers including children must present a passport or secure travel document when entering the United States by AIR, SEA and LAND. This does not include traveling to and from the US Territories, but it is a good idea to have your passport anyway. Cruise ship Passengers – U.S. and Canadian citizens arriving on cruises from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of identity and citizenship, such as a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. However you may still be required to show a passport at foreign docks so be sure to inquire with your Shipmaster before sailing. There are different rules and laws for Canadian, Burmudian and Mexican citizens so please see the DHS website for further information.

Overseas Travel – You can be more prepared if you are traveling outside the continental U.S. by following the guidelines listed on the Department of Homeland Security website.

U.S. Passports – This guide will help prepare you with applying for a new passportGlobal Entry – Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that gives pre-approved, low-risk travelers to have expedited clearance when traveling back to the U.S.

Find a location to apply – This site will allow you to find convenient locations to apply for your passport.