Leaving the US on business or vacation? Then you'll need passport. Getting one, or renewing an old one, isn't really a complicated thing to do. But, you have to follow the rules and it's a good idea to start the process well before the day you're scheduled to travel.
New Passport
There are several steps involved in getting a new passport. Follow them to the letter, prepare your forms carefully and completely, and gather all the documents asked for in the forms, and you'll get your passport without a hitch:
- Complete and print-out Form DS-11, but don't sign it. You have to sign the form in the presence of a passport agent
- Gather the proper proof of your US citizenship. Form DS-11 lists the types of documents you can use, but generally you'll need an old US Passport issued in your name, a certified birth certificate or your naturalization certificate. Sometimes other documents may be used if you don't have or can't get a form listed
- Make sure you have proper and valid forms of identification. Again, Form DS-11 lists what you can use, but a driver's license, government or military identification card or naturalization certificate can be used. If you're applying in a state other than your home state, you need two proper forms of ID. If you can't get one of these IDs, you may be able to use other documents. Also, you'll need a photocopy of the ID(s) you're using for the application. The copy must be on plain white 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper and must show show the front and the back of your ID
- Get two "passport quality" photos of yourself. Don't attach them to the Form
- Be prepared to pay the fee. For an adult, a new passport book costs $100, but the fees may go up in 2010
Where to Apply
When you have everything together, take it all to a Passport Acceptance Facility - it's typically at a local post office. You need to apply for the passport in person if:
- This is your first US passport
- You're under 16 years old
- You got your first passport when you were under 16 years old
- Your old passport was lost, stolen or damaged
- Your old passport is more than 15 years old
Be sure to call the Passport Acceptance Facility and ask about how you can pay the application fee. There may be restrictions on when you can pay by credit card, check or cash.
If you do everything right, you should get your passport within four to six weeks.
Renewals
You may renew your current passport by mail if the passport:
- Is undamaged and can be mailed with your application, meaning you're not currently traveling and need it to re-enter the US
- Was issued to you when you were at least 16 years old
- Is not more than 15 years old
- Was issued in your current name, or you can legally document your name change, such as with a marriage certificate or court order showing you legally changed your name
You need to complete Form DS-82 and mail it to the address listed on the Form.