Do I need a passport to leave the country?

In general, yes. Exceptions include land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda, where a photo ID plus proof of citizenship might be enough for now. What else do I need?

Depending on the country you visit, you also might need a visa. Contact the country's government for details. How do I get a passport?

The best information is at travel.state.gov. Click on "Passports for U.S. Citizens." Under fee increases announced recently, a new passport costs $100 for adults and $85 for children younger than 16; renewals run $75.

When should I apply for a passport?

As far ahead as possible. It takes the State Department about four to six weeks to process your application, officials say.

My passport expires in four months. Can I travel on it?

That depends on the country you're going to. Some governments require that you have at least six months left on your passport.

I have one blank page in my passport. Is that OK?

Some countries require two to four blank pages for visa stamps, the State Department says. Adding pages is free. To find out how, go to travel.state.gov.

What changes are ahead?

By June 2009, Americans might need a passport or a special high-security document to return from Canada or Mexico by land. One document for this purpose will be a passport card, about half the cost of a passport, that the U.S. government expects to start issuing this spring.