A small town just east of Charlotte is about to host a rare ‘passport fair’ as the clock ticks down on the deadline for Real ID requirements.
The U.S. Department of State announced the event as part of its monthly nationwide initiative to help new travelers apply in person. The event will take place at the Stanfield Post Office (about 30 min East of Charlotte), on Saturday, May 3 from 12 pm to 4 pm. No appointments are required, allowing walk-in applicants to stop by at any time during the event.
These fairs are rare in North Carolina and are only open to individuals who have never held a U.S. passport. Renewals must be completed online or by mail.
The event comes just days before the federal REAL ID Act goes into effect on May 7. Both passport books and passport cards are REAL ID compliant.
Applicants must bring a completed passport application form and original proof of U.S. citizenship with a photocopy. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship.
A valid physical photo ID with a photocopy is also required, along with a color passport photo taken within the last six months.
Fees include $130 for a passport book ($100 for children under 16) and $30 for a passport card ($15 for children under 16). A separate $35 execution fee also applies.
For updates or future events, you can visit travel.state.gov.
