Seeing a passport is the one most vital step if you are a traveler traveling internationally with U.S. citizenship. And in case you are about to be off on your first great adventure or need a renewal for expired paperwork, the whole concept of making a passport will make it appear rather daunting. Our all-inclusive guide will take you through the steps to make it as simple for you as it will ever become.
Step 1: Determine Your Passport Type
Before beginning the application process, you must determine whether you will be needing a passport book (valid for any international travel) or a passport providing a cheaper alternative for land and sea travel but limited options for cross-border travel in Canada and Mexico.
Step 2: Gather all the Required Documents
When you apply for the passport, you must bring enough evidence of U.S. citizenship, including a birth certificate or naturalization certificate; government-issuing identification, like a driver’s license; two passport photos; and a filled-out application form (Form DS-11 is for first-time folks and Form DS-82 is for renewals).
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
The form DS-11 barcode data is designed for first-time applicants or after a lost passport. DS-82 offers mail-in renouncements. Those forms can be found on the Internet at passport acceptance facilities or at the U.S. State Department. These forms are available on the U.S. State Department’s website or at passport acceptance facilities.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
First-time U.S. passport applicants must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility like a post office or government office. Bring all of the required documents and be ready to pay the necessary fees. The renewal option allows the applicant to mail his or her application, with all fields filled out, along with the fees.
Step 5: Tracking Your Application Status
It is possible to check the status of applications by going online and entering your surname, date of birth, and application ID at the U.S. State Department’s webpage.
Step 6: Get Your Passport
Turnaround times typically vary, with a standard processing time of 8 to 11 weeks, while a five-to-seven-week option is available for expedited services for an additional charge. An expedited appointment can be made if travel is imminent.
Additional Tips
Apply well in advance to any intended travel so that application processing will not hold up your trip. Keep copies of the application form and other documents submitted to avoid unnecessary stress. Secure a valid passport which will expire at least six months after the date of travel since a number of countries require this.
Conclusion
Securing a U.S. passport does not have to be difficult, given that these straightforward steps are followed and related supporting documents have been gathered for the preparation. You are free to say, “Have a safe trip.”
