The Honolulu Passport Agency is urging U.S. residents to apply for passports now rather than wait until an emergency arises or a trip overseas next year nears.

Currently, passport processing times are less than two weeks four weeks for routine applications and less than two weeks for expedited applications. By applying now instead of waiting until the last minute, applicants can save having to pay the $60 expedite fee.

The U.S. Department of State expects a huge increase in passport demands next year from 21 million in 2008 to 30 million in 2009.

"If you have family or friends living, studying or working abroad, or if you keep your eyes open for an airfare bargain, we strongly recommend you maintain a valid U.S. passport," said Nancy K. Finn, regional director of the Honolulu Passport Agency. "If you are taking a cruise that goes to Fanning Island, Kiribati, Tahiti or any other international destination you will need a passport to board the ship."

There are 29 facilities on Oahu to apply for passports, including most U.S. Post Offices, some libraries, the University of Hawaii and some community colleges plus the Honolulu Passport Agency in the Prince Kuhio Federal Building.

Go to travel.state.gov for more information, or call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.