Your First U.S. Passport: A Complete Guide
By Sydney Tong on July 27, 2017. Read time: 3 mins.
Your first step to your international journey begins with applying for your U.S. passport. A U.S. passport allows access to some 160 countries without having to attain a visa. Your passport is an important necessity in every jet setter's bag, and without it, you will not be getting far.
Acquiring a passport is an out-dated process and involves collecting documents proving citizenship, forms, a photo through snail mail. Let me help walk you through four key steps needed to apply for a passport.
What you need to apply
Four items are required to successfully attain a passport without delays. Applicants need to include proper documentation, proof of citizenship, appropriate photo, and necessary fees with their application. These main ingredients will get you closer to your first stamp in your passport.
Forms
The DS-11 is the official form needed in most cases when applying for a passport. This application is for first time applicants, adults whose previous passport was issued before the age of 16, or for those who have not renewed their passport for 15 years or more. Children under 16 years old who are applying or renewing their passport will also need this form. Either print or submit this form online through the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs.
The DS-82 is for adults renewing their passports. The DS-5504 is for instances such as changing a name, correcting a passport error, or replacing a limited valid passport within one or two years.
Proof of citizenship
Applicants will need to prove that they are an American citizen. Acceptable forms of identification include; a naturalization certificate, a birth certificate, a previously issued U.S. passport, a valid driver's license, a current government id, or current military id.
Passport photo
Your passport photo must be 2-inch x 2-inch, in full color and taken in front of a white background. You must have a natural facial expression or a natural smile with both eyes open. Glasses, hats and other head coverings are not permitted. I recommend going to Walgreens to get your photo taken and printed. If you are taking your photo on your own here are more in-depth photo requirements here.
Passport Photo requirements here
Fees
Different factors affect the fees needed to get a passport. A passport book for first-time adults typically costs $135 USD, the application fee is$100, and the processing fee is $25 USD. These two fees are paid separately. This fee calculator will inform you of how much a passport will cost you.
Finished
After compiling the necessary documents, locate a nearby "passport acceptance facility" to apply in person. You must apply in person if it is your first passport, are under 16, your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under 16, your passport was lost or stolen, or if your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago. Some facilities require an appointment, to find a facility nearby click this link below.
Many passport applications can be dropped off at your local post office. Call your local post office to see if they accept passport applications
Processing time
Processing time takes between 6-8 weeks. I have typically received my passport in less time, but it is always good practice to anticipate it taking longer. If you need to expedite the process, a $60 fee is added to get it processed in 2 weeks. Once issued, you can have the passport shipped overnight for an added$14.45 fee is added to the initial $60.
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