The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security have announced that, through September 30, 2007, U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for -- but not yet received -- passports will temporarily be allowed to enter and depart from the U.S. by air, provided they have government-issued photo identification and official proof (from the Department of State) that they have applied for a passport. According to the State Department, "the federal government is making this accommodation for air travel due to longer than expected processing times for passport applications in the face of record-breaking demand." New passport requirements went into effect on January 23, 2007.
- Read the U.S. State Department Press Release
- FAQs on the Temporary Changes and Travel Rules (State Dept.)
- New Passport Requirements (FindLaw)