A passport is your ticket to exploring the international world. If you don’t already have a passport, getting one is easy! Here are some things to remember for how to get a passport.
Photo Courtesy of: J Aaron Farr
How to Get a Passport
Getting a passport is simple, but you need to remember to allow for the time it takes to complete the process. Everyone entering or re-entering America by plane is required to show show their passport and pass through U.S. Customs.
What You’ll Need
Passport Photos: At least two recent photos of you in the standardized size and style. You can take these photos at a variety of locations including drugstores, Costco or the Post Office.
Valid Photo ID: A U.S. Driver’s License, Military ID, Identification card, etc. Must be un-expired and feature a picture and your date of birth.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Example: Birth Certificate.
What You’ll Do
To apply for your passport, you’ll need to go in person to an acceptance facility. There are over 7,000 of them in the U.S. and many are Post Offices.
You’ll need to bring filled out Form DS-11, the application for a U.S. passport.
Pay the fee ($135 for adults) and wait for your passport to arrive in the mail.
Expedited Passports
If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite the process and receive it in 2-3 weeks. This comes with an extra fee. Otherwise, your passport will take 4-6 weeks to process and will be mailed to you.
How Long Does It Take?
The appointment at a passport acceptance facility is not long, about 20-30 mins. Here are the times to process and receive your passport:
| Routine | 4-5 Weeks |
| Expedited | 2-3 Weeks |
How Long Do They Last?
Passports are valid for 10 years if you are over the age of 16 when it is issued.
Is Your Passport Lost/Stolen?
Immediately report a lost or stolen passport to the US Passport Agency.
Important Links:
Find an Acceptance Facility: http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
Form DS-11: http://www.us-passport-service-guide.com/ds-11-new-passport-application.html
Remember, a passport is required for booking international travel tickets. You should allow for the time it takes to get a passport before you will be able to book any plan tickets or start travel plans.
Happy traveling!!
Elizabeth Adan is a Freelance Writer, Publicist and Brand Ambassador. Her blog Aquaberry Bliss is a unique food and travel blog dedicated to expanding your world and inspiring your creativity. When Elizabeth isn’t traveling, you’ll find her writing, hiking or gardening. Find Elizabeth on Twitter @stillaporcupine and on LinkedIn.
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