Applying for and securing a passport is a legal process, one that requires the recipient to adhere to qualifications and follow a step-by-step procedure.
That’s where we come in.
Before you start overthinking and overanalyzing, we want to encourage you to take a breath. Though it sounds quite complex, applying for a passport is pretty easy peasy. Just follow this article’s checklist and you’ll be good to travel internationally in no time.
Check Eligibility
The simplest step of them all, checking eligibility. Just answer this question: Are you a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or, are you a qualifying U.S. non-citizen national?
If the answer is yes, please proceed to step #2. If the answer is no, you may have to inquire with the U.S. government.
Fill Application Form Out
Find the U.S. Department of State Application for a U.S. Passport online, or click the link here. Download the PDF and fill it out via computer, or print the form out and hand write your answers.
Here are some tips to help you complete the form:
- Complete all parts of the form except for the signature line. You will sign in person at a passport acceptance facility where someone can act as a witness.
- Make sure if you’re printing, to do so in single-sided paper. Double-sided forms are not accepted.
- Note that you can apply for both a passport book and a passport card with the link provided.
- If you need a larger passport book with more visa pages, simply check the “large book” box at the top of the form.
Obtain Citizenship Evidence
You’ll need an original, or certified physical copy for this one. Certified means that the doc has the seal or stamp from the official issuing authority. One of the following must be included in your application packet to be accepted for passport remittance:
- U.S. Birth certificate
- Certification of Birth
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport
For more information, visit this link.
Remember Your ID
A photocopy of and your official identification card are both required to obtain a passport. If you’re applying in a different state than that of which you live, you’ll need a second photo ID.
Some examples that will be accepted include:
- Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book
- In-state, fully valid driver’s license
- Enhanced driver’s license with photo
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Government employee ID
- U.S. military or military-dependent ID
- Current and valid foreign passport
- U.S. Permanent Resident Card
Provide a Photo
When you go to renew your driver’s license, you often get photographed professionally to add an updated picture on the ID card. Same goes for your passport. You’ll need an updated picture to go with your application. Examples and requirements can be found here.
Please note: You should not staple or attach your photo to the application form. Also, you can get a photo taken at some passport acceptance facilities and any company that offers photo services.
Don’t Forget the Fees
Two fees must be paid for your application form to be accepted. The original application fee for the passport book is $130 and the execution (acceptance) fee is $35.
If you’re looking to get a passport card instead of book, the original application fee is $30 and the execution fee is $35.
Even still, if you’d like to grab the passport book and card at the same time, the original application fee is $160 and the execution fee is $35.
Please note: The original application fee will be paid to the U.S. Department of State and the execution fee will be paid to the facility that takes your application.
Note Processing Times
Current 2024 processing times are routinely 6-8 weeks, but you can speed it up with an expedited version and get yours in 2-3 weeks. The additional cost will be $60.
To add, you can make your passport application an “urgent” request. To do so, you’ll need to make an appointment and have proof of international travel within the next 14 calendar days.
If you need to find an authorized facility to apply, please visit this link.
The process is the same for renewal, accept this time you don’t have to go in person. You can send documents via mail.