Planning an international trip? One of the first and most crucial steps is ensuring you have a valid passport. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need to renew, understanding the requirements can streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to get a passport, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your application.
Essential Documents for Your Passport Application
To successfully apply for a U.S. passport, you’ll need to gather several key documents. These serve to verify your identity and U.S. citizenship, both essential for international travel.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
You must provide evidence that you are a U.S. citizen. Acceptable documents include:
- Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state. It must include your full name, date and place of birth, and the file date within one year of birth, registrar’s signature, and the seal of the issuing authority.
- Previous U.S. Passport: An expired U.S. passport, especially if issued within the last 15 years and you were over 16 years old when it was issued, can serve as proof of both citizenship and identity.
- Certificate of Citizenship or Consular Report of Birth Abroad: If you were born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, these documents are official proof of your citizenship.
- Certificate of Naturalization: For those who became citizens through naturalization, this certificate is required.
Important: You must submit the original document or a certified copy. Photocopies are not accepted as proof of citizenship. You will also need to submit a photocopy (front and back) of your citizenship evidence to be sent with your application.
Proof of Identity
To confirm your identity, you’ll need to present one of the following documents:
- Valid Driver’s License: A current, valid driver’s license is widely accepted.
- Valid State-Issued ID: Identification cards issued by a U.S. state or territory are also valid.
- Previous U.S. Passport: As mentioned above, a previous passport can serve as both citizenship and identity proof.
- Military ID: U.S. military IDs are accepted for identification purposes.
- Government Employee ID: Federal, state, or municipal government employee IDs are also valid.
Important: Similar to citizenship proof, you must provide the original document and a photocopy (front and back). The ID should be currently valid and recognizable as you.
Passport Photo
You will need one passport photo that meets specific requirements to ensure it is accepted.
- Color Photo: Photos must be in color.
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
- Head Size: The head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
- Background: Plain white or off-white background.
- Appearance: Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
- Expression: Neutral facial expression, with both eyes open.
- Attire: No uniforms or hats (unless worn daily for religious reasons, with a signed statement confirming this). Eyeglasses are no longer allowed in passport photos.
Many drugstores and post offices offer passport photo services to ensure your photo meets these strict guidelines.
Form DS-11: Application for U.S. Passport
The Form DS-11, Application for U.S. Passport, is the standard application form for first-time passport applicants, minors, and those who do not meet the requirements to renew their passport by mail.
- Complete Online: It is highly recommended to complete the form online via the U.S. Department of State website. This ensures accuracy and legibility.
- Print and Do Not Sign: After completing the online form, print it out. Crucially, do not sign the application form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent. You will sign it in person at the time of application.
- Accuracy is Key: Double-check all information on the form for accuracy before printing. Errors can cause delays in processing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Passport
Applying for a passport involves a series of steps to ensure your application is processed correctly.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
As detailed above, collect all necessary documents: proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, and a compliant passport photo. Having these ready in advance will make the application process much smoother.
Step 2: Complete and Print Form DS-11 (Do Not Sign!)
Visit the U.S. Department of State website and navigate to the passport application section to access and complete Form DS-11 online. Print the completed form, remembering not to sign it.
Step 3: Get a Passport Photo
If you don’t already have a recent passport photo that meets the requirements, get one taken. Many locations offer this service, ensuring compliance with official guidelines.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment (if needed)
For first-time applicants, applications for minors, and those who cannot renew by mail, you’ll need to apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Many U.S. Post Offices are designated acceptance facilities and require appointments.
- Online Scheduling: Use the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler to find a Post Office offering passport services and schedule an appointment online. This is often the most convenient method.
- Self-Service Kiosk: Some Post Offices have self-service kiosks where you can schedule appointments directly.
- Walk-in Availability: While some locations may accept walk-ins, scheduling an appointment is strongly recommended to avoid long wait times and ensure service availability.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Passport fees are divided into two categories: application processing fees (paid to the Department of State) and acceptance fees (if applying at a Post Office or other acceptance facility).
- Application Processing Fees: These fees vary depending on whether you are applying for a passport book, passport card, or both, and whether you require expedited service. Check the U.S. Department of State website for the current fee schedule. Payment methods accepted by the State Department typically include checks or money orders.
- Acceptance Fees: If applying through a Post Office, you will pay a separate acceptance fee to USPS. Post Offices usually accept credit cards, debit cards, checks, and money orders for these fees.
Be prepared to pay both sets of fees when you submit your application.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Go to your scheduled appointment at the passport acceptance facility. Bring all your documents, your printed Form DS-11 (unsigned), your passport photo, and payment for fees. You will sign Form DS-11 in front of the acceptance agent, who will then review your documents, witness your signature, and officially submit your application package to the U.S. Department of State for processing.
Passport Fees Breakdown
Understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting your passport application. As of [insert current date – check official website for latest fees], typical passport fees include:
- Passport Book (Adult, First-Time Applicant):
- Application Fee: $130
- Execution Fee (Acceptance Fee): $35
- Total: $165
- Passport Card (Adult, First-Time Applicant):
- Application Fee: $30
- Execution Fee (Acceptance Fee): $35
- Total: $65
Note: These fees are subject to change. Always verify the most current fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State website before applying. Additional fees apply for expedited service and overnight delivery.
Conclusion
Getting a passport requires careful preparation, but by understanding what you need to get a passport and following these steps, you can navigate the process smoothly. Gather your documents early, complete the application accurately, and schedule your appointment to ensure a successful passport application experience. With your passport in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on your international adventures! Always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.
