Don't worry; we're here to help break down the process for you step by step. We'll cover which forms are necessary and why they're necessary, as well as what those forms look like and some examples of how they might be filled out.
In this section, we'll focus on the passport application. In a future post, we will cover the "Passport Renewal" process. If you've never been overseas with a U.S. passport before, it's a good idea to request a "new passport" for this reason – it helps keep your passport from expiring and helps you avoid having to renew it later on by going through the entire process again.
As you're applying, be sure to have your valid driver's license available. If you have a valid passport already, it's not necessary to bring that unless specifically instructed.
Where can I apply?
You can apply for a new passport at various places around the country. To find one near you, visit the U.S Department of State's website and click on "Find A Passport Office Near You.
What do I need to get a passport?
The forms that you'll need when applying for a U.S. passport are listed below, in order of importance. First, though, you'll need to complete the requirements for your particular passport type, either regular or expedited. You can find out what type of passport you need by visiting the official U.S. Department of State website or by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
What are the different passport types?
There are three main forms of U.S. passports: regular, expedited, and emergency. The options vary depending on the type of trip you're making and on your age. Here's more information on what they entail:
Regular passports : These passports will allow you to travel internationally for up to five years without entering into another country while keeping your permanent resident status in the United States intact.
Expedited passports : As the name suggests, these are processed more quickly than regular passports are.
Emergency passports : If your passport has been damaged or destroyed, you'll need an emergency passport to allow you to travel internationally. You can learn more about emergency passports on the U.S. Department of State's website.
The "Regular" passport
Passport application form (DS-11) – This is the primary form that you'll need. The DS-11 can be filled out online or printed off and then filled out by hand. We'd recommend going the online route here, as it will help to ensure that your information is entered correctly and minimize mailroom errors.
– This is the primary form that you'll need. The DS-11 can be filled out online or printed off and then filled out by hand. We'd recommend going the online route here, as it will help to ensure that your information is entered correctly and minimize mailroom errors. Passport photo – You'll need a clear, recent photo of yourself to complete this form.
– You'll need a clear, recent photo of yourself to complete this form. Payment – Your most important form is the DS-11 . If you need a passport in a hurry, you can pay for a " rush approval " service , which will have the passport sent to you for pickup within 10 business days.
The "Expedited" passport
The application form (DS-55) – You'll need this form if your trip is urgent or requires that you travel internationally. The cost will be slightly more than the regular application, but it's far less expensive than any problems that might arise on your trip. Just like the DS-11, this form can be filled online and printed off to complete by hand if you like.
– You'll need this form if your trip is urgent or requires that you travel internationally. The cost will be slightly more than the regular application, but it's far less expensive than any problems that might arise on your trip. Just like the DS-11, this form can be filled online and printed off to complete by hand if you like. Payment – See above for a description of the different payments available.
Does my age affect my passport?
Yes, it does. If you're 18 or younger , you can apply for a regular passport. If you're 19 or older , you'll need an expedited passport. If you're 60 or older, your passport will be invalidated and you'll need to renew it.
What do I need to fill out?
This form can be filled out online or printed off and then filled out by hand.
In general, the DS-11 is the most important one when applying for a passport. It contains a lot of the information that your U.S. passport will need to have.
What documents do I need to bring?
You'll need to bring your valid driver's license when applying for your passport. If you have a current passport, it's not necessary to bring it unless you're specifically asked for it beforehand.
If you've already got another type of photo ID (like a state-issued ID card), that's all that you'll need in most cases. In fact, you won't need a birth certificate or any additional proof at all. However, you'll need to bring identification for your name change if it's different than your original.
If you previously used the name of someone else when applying for a passport, you'll need to bring documentation proving that it is indeed your legal name. Your Social Security Number is not acceptable.
What are my options for getting a passport?
If you're in need of an emergency passport, you'll have to visit an official U.S. Department of State office in person. If you want to have someone else submit your application on your behalf, there are several different options for this depending on your situation. You can find out more about the different ways that you can get a passport here.
How do I check on the status of my passport?
There are two ways to check the status of your application. You can call 1-877-487-2778 and speak with a customer service representative, or you can track it online through the Department of State's website.
How long does it take to process my passport?
A regular passport can be issued in as little as two weeks if you're applying in person and have all the necessary paperwork. If you're applying through the mail, it can take up to three weeks. If you need an emergency passport, it can be processed within two days.
If you need an expedited passport, you can expect processing to take four or five weeks. If your application is being submitted by someone else, it can take 6-8 weeks.
How much does a passport cost?
If your trip is urgent , you can pay for a "rush" passport program. This will have the passport sent to you for pickup, and then go into an expedited process to be issued. The price for this service depends on the type of trip that you're making. If you need to get an emergency passport, it will be more expensive than regular processing, but the exchange rate is the best possible rate that you'll get.
Bottom Line:
It's easy to get a passport. All you need is the correct form and appropriate documents proving your identity and U.S. citizenship. You can apply for a passport through the mail or in person at an official U.S. Department of State office, though it's best to apply in-person if possible. If you're in need of an emergency passport, be prepared to speak with customer service representatives directly by phone or to visit your local office for this process.
Get your passport today!
We hope that this article has helped you understand more about passports in general! If so, don't hesitate to share it with your loved ones! They might have similar problems on their hands! Speaking of loved ones...
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