A GUIDE TO APPLYING FOR YOUR PASSPORT – YOUR TICKET TO EXPLORE THE WORLD

One of the best investments you’ll ever make, in my opinion, is applying for your passport.  Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.  It opens up the world to you, offering you an endless supply of new destinations, experiences and opportunities you wouldn’t otherwise have.  Imagine having a wonderful but unexpected opportunity to travel someplace you’ve ALWAYS wanted to go, but you can’t, because you don’t have your passport.  How disappointing!  Don’t let that happen to you!

​With the world on pause, now is a great time to apply ....because once travel does open back up, you won't want to wait! 

​How and where you apply depends much on how soon you need your passport and why you need your passport.  How fast you receive your passport also depends on a number of factors. 
 
So let’s delve right into the intricacies of passport applications.  There are 5 steps to apply:

1. Fill out or download your form. 
2. Submit supporting US citizen documents.
3. Submit 2 good photos.
4. Pay your passport application fees. 
5. Submit your application.  

​What form should you use?  This passport wizard will prepare you to apply for a U.S. passport, whether it’s your first time applying, you need to renew, or you want to get a passport for your child.  Form Finder
 
Read more below on where and how to apply. 
 
PROCESSING TIMES
Right now, the processing times (as of the date of this article) is 10-12 weeks for a routine passport application.  Expedited applications are taking 4-6 weeks. Expedited passport processing can be used for renewing a passport or for first-time applicants. 
 
WHERE TO APPLY
Where to apply depends on when you need your passport. 
 
I NEED IT NOW!  If you need your passport right now, go to Life or Death Emergencies page to learn if you’re eligible.  
 
LESS THAN 4 WEEKS FROM TODAY: If you have urgent international travel plans within 72 hours (3 business days) and want to expedite your passport at an Agency or Center – a limited number of appointments are available here: Passport Agencies – Restrictions apply 
 
IN THE NEXT 4-10 WEEKS:  No reason needed …and want to expedite your passport application, go here to search for your nearest passport acceptance facility:  Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page or you can renew by mail… Can You Renew Your Passport by Mail?  Find out here
 
MORE THAN 10 WEEKS FROM TODAY:  No reason needed, routine service, with a 10-12 week processing time:  Apply at an Acceptance Facility or Renew My Passport By Mail
 
HOW TO APPLY 
 
If you need a brand new passport:  

1. Fill out Form DS-11 * 
2. Provide evidence of US citizenship
3. Bring a photocopy of US citizenship evidence
4. Present ID
5. Bring a photocopy of ID
6. Determine any special circumstances
7. Provide 2 photos from within last 6 months
8. Calculate fees
9. Submit your completed application 
10. Track your application status 

 
* You must apply in person using form DS-11 if at least one of the following applies:  

• You’re applying for your first US Passport
• You are under age 16
• Your previous US Passport was issued when you were under age 16
• Your previous US Passport was lost, stolen or damaged 
• Your previous US Passport was issued more than 15 years ago 

 
If you already have a passport:  
 Can you renew by mail?  Find out here?  Can I Renew My US Passport By Mail?

1. Fill out form DS-82 Online Form DS-82
2. Submit your most recent US Passport
3. Include name change documents (if applicable)
4. Provide 2 photos taken within past 6 months
5. Calculate fees: Fee Calculator
6. Mail completed application:  Mail Information
7. Track your application status Here

 
Passports for minors:
 Children under 16 must apply for a passport in person with two parents or guardians. 

1. Fill out Form DS-11.
2. Obtain a copy of their birth certificate. 
3. Provide 2 photos. 
4. 16 and 17 year olds can apply themselves, but be aware parental awareness needs to be established, either by a parent accompanying them, or a signed statement okaying their passport application.  A photocopy of the parent(s) signing the document must accompany the statement.  

 
You cannot renew your child’s passport.  Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years.  Passports for applicants age 16 and older are valid for 10 years.  
 
Giving yourself enough time and being organized make getting your passport a fairly stress-free process.  Once you do have your passport, you will be exposed to new cultures and can escape to anywhere your heart desires.