One of the first rites of passage for any traveler is getting your passport. And while some people have been traveling internationally since childhood, many others never have a passport and don’t know how to start the process. This information is for you. (Please note: the procedures outlined below apply to obtaining a passport under normal circumstances; as with anything else, the pandemic is continue to throw the once-typical timelines into turmoil, and revised timelines are indicated).
What documents and information you need to apply for a passport
- A completed application (DS-11). You can fill that out Online application or print it out pdf copy to write your answers.
- Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or Consular birth report abroad if born outside of the United States). Get a photocopy of the front of your citizenship certificate and the back (if it says something on the back). The photocopy must be on standard 8.5 “by 11” paper, in black and white, and clearly visible. If you don’t have a birth certificate, you need to read these rules for Minor forms identification.
- Proof of identity with photo ID: State ID, driver’s license, military photo ID, employee ID, expired driver’s license, health insurance card or green card You will need a copy of this to include with your application. You will need to provide some form of primary ID. If you are unable to present one of the primary IDs, you can also use 2 forms of secondary ID, including marriage certificate, social security ID, vehicle registration, employer ID, student ID and / or yearbook picture.
- A passport photo. The Photo must Recorded in full color on a clean white background within the last six months. It also needs to have a full view of the front of your face and should measure 2 inches by 2 inches. No glasses are allowed in the photo and you can smile as long as it is not extreme or closes your eyes.
Where do I apply for a passport?
When applying for your passport, you have several options. While some of these were closed during the pandemic, most government services are now fully reopened across the country.
G / O Media can receive a commission
- The post office
- Passage agencies (here is The list)
- Office of the District Office
- Private agencies. These agencies are coming with you their own Price lists for services provided, but they can help you speed up the process if you have to travel sooner rather than later.
How much does it cost to get a passport?
A passport book for travelers 16 and older costs $ 145, including the application fee ($ 110) and the acceptance fee ($ 35).
When applying to a passport agency, you can pay by credit card, debit card, checks (personal, cash register, notarized, travelers), money orders or the exact amount of cash (no change). You can also use a prepaid card with a Visa or Mastercard logo. If you apply by post, you can pay with a check (again: in person, cash register, notarized, traveler).
The fees are higher for additional services such as acceleration. For example, there is a $ 60 expedited passport service add-on. You can find the full list of fees Here.
How long does it take to get your passport?
Under normal circumstances, passports will be mailed within 6-8 weeks (if you submitted your application by mail). However, as the nation emerges from the pandemic, the State Department says the current waiting time is closer to 18 weeks. If you choose the expedited service, you could previously count on your passport to be ready in 2-3 weeks, but now it’s closer to 12.
There is also an option to get an expedited emergency service that eventually made it possible to service on the same day or 1-2 days. Applying for such an exception requires proof of travel (flight ticket confirmation, accommodation booking and / or travel route). If you need a passport immediately, apply directly to a Passport agency that offers these fast processing times.
AZCentral offers the following tips for those seeking emergency services:
First of all, you need an appointment. You cannot enter. And appointments are usually reserved for life and death emergencies. If this applies to your situation, call the office at 877-487-2778 to schedule your appointment.
There are very few appointments for unnecessary trips that take place within 72 hours, and they fill up quickly. In this case you can try to make an appointment online at https://passportappointment.travel.state.gov.
This article was originally published in May 2020 and updated on July 9, 2021 to reflect changes in turnaround times during the pandemic and to update the article to reflect the current Lifehacker style.
