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Getting a Passport
If you have already scheduled or are planning travel out of the country,
in most cases you will need  to apply for and secure a passport. If you have any future thought of traveling outside the country,
getting a passport now is a simple and relatively inexpensive way to take care of one of the necessities of traveling
abroad--upfront. Although it is possible to get a passport in a short amount of time (like when you forget or for
an unexpected trip!) it will cost you extra money.
Who needs a passport?
All travelers--adults, children and babies--will need a valid passport in their own name.
Where are applications taken?
Although there are 13 cities in the U.S. that have passport agencies, over 2500 Courts and 1100 Post Offices are
set up to take passport applications. To search for a location near you, click here.
Where can I get an application?
 You
can get the application form (Form DSP-11) at any application facility, or you can download one here. (You will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader for the
form.)
What will I need with the application?
In addition to the form DSP-11 (the application) you will need application fees ($60 for those age 16 and over
or $40 for those aged 15 and under), and proof of U.S. citizenship and 2 passport photographs. Items that qualify
for proof of citizenship are:
- Previous U.S. Passport
- Certified birth certificate
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- Naturalization Certificate
- Certificate of Citizenship
If none of those are available, you will need a "Letter of No Record"
issued by the state stating the name, date of birth, years searched for a record and that there is no birth certificate
on file for the person. In addition you will need one of the following:
- baptismal certificate
- hospital birth certificate
- census record
- certificate of circumcision
- early school record
- family bible record
- doctor's record of post-natal care.
How long does it take?
According to the the State Department, normal processing time is 25 working days--plus mail time. Expedited service, at a $35 extra fee, should only take
7 to 10 days, plus any mail or overnight delivery time.
Still have questions?
Get more information at the State Department passport site.
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