Q: Do I need a passport for travel outside of the United States?

A: A passport is required for all U.S. citizens traveling outside of the United States, and must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you are scheduled to return to the U.S. Passport applications are available at your local post office, passport agency, acceptance agency, or on-line at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/DS-0011.pdf. Additional information can be found at www.travel.state.gov or by calling the National Passport Center at 877-487-2778.

Q. Do I need a visa for travel outside of the United States?

A: Depending on the countries being visited, you may require an entry visa. Although most countries in Europe do not require U.S. citizens to have a visa, countries in Asia, Africa, South America, and the Pacific usually do require a visa. Travel Plans International can assist in obtaining your visa, or you can use a local passport/visa service provider, or go directly to the visiting country's embassy or consulate.

Q. Do I need a Yellow Fever Certificate to obtain a visa?

A. Depending on the country(s) being visited, a Yellow Fever Certificate is required to obtain a visa. This is especially true if you've visited a Yellow Fever endemic country just prior to your currently planned trip. Additional information about Yellow Fever, and other traveler's health, can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/.

Q. Do I need a special driver's license to use a rental car?

A: There's always a concern about whether you need an international driver's license when renting a car in a foreign country. In the western world, it has rarely been required in the past, but things are changing. For example, reports are that Slovenian border guards are requiring them. In Italy, the official word from the Italian Government Tourist Board is that U.S. and Canadian driving licenses must be accompanied by a translation, which is exactly what an international license is. (They are available for @ $10 plus two passport-size photos at American Automobile Association offices). For motorists who arrive without an international license, Automobile Club d'Italia will issue a similar document at its offices in Italy. If you have the time, we strongly encourage you to get one before your trip.