A friend once told me that you should always have a bottle of champagne in your fridge for spontaneous moments of celebration and a valid passport because you never know when the opportunity to travel abroad might land in your inbox. I always have both and so should you. A passport opens you up to a world of adventure. While, applying for your first passport can feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be.
Have you ever found yourself dreaming of an international adventure, only to realize that you’re grounded because you don’t have a passport? Well that’s about to end. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to apply for your first US passport without any confusion, and be one step closer to making those travel dreams a reality.
I’ve had a passport for nearly 30 years. It’s as important to me as my driver’s license. I always have it nearby ‘just in case’ and I always know exactly when it will expire. Once you get your passport and take that first trip, you will always be looking for your next international adventure.
The process is easier than you think. So let’s get started!
Applying for a Passport
A passport is the key that unlocks international adventure. It is essential to start exploring the world. While you might think the process is complicated, it’s actually quite simple. Let’s go through 5 easy to follow steps to getting your passport. .
1. Gathering Required Documents
The first steps trips most of us up. I mean, who has a copy of their original birth certificate? If you are like me, you haven’t seen your original birth certificate in years. Not to worry, if you can’t find it in your archives, you can order one from your state vital records agency.
Search around for a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license and make sure you have your social security number which most of us have memorized for various reasons (the card is not necessary).
Once you have the require documents in hand, you should get ready for the photo.
2. Taking the Correct Passport Photo
Having a great passport photo is paramount. Every time you enter a new country, this is the picture the agents will be seeing and evaluating against the person standing in front of them. And since it will be with you for the next 10 years, you want to make sure you look your absolute best.
A few things are required. You should be wearing neutral clothing. No uniforms and no glasses are permitted in the photo. The photo should be 2×2 inches with a plain white background. Do not attempt to take this at home on your own. You’re likely to get it wrong and have to redo everything only delaying your passport.
Instead, head to a place that offers professional passport photo services to make this step easy. In some cities, that may be your local pharmacy. If you are lucky, there are some places that have photo booths/kiosk where you can take the photo on your own.
3. Filling Out Form DS-11
Next you are going to need the official application (Form DS-11). You can download form DS-11 here and print it at home or head to your local post office to pick one up.
Take your time to complete all of the fields ensuring all of your personal details are accurate. Double check your name, place of birth and SSN are correct.
Do not sign the form until you are instructed to do so during your in-person appointment.
4. Applying in Person
Because this is your first passport, you will have to go into an approved passport acceptance facility to apply in person. The good news is your local passport is an approved facility so you shouldn’t have to go far. There are also some government offices that will accept your application as well. Head over to the Travel.state.gov website to find the location nearest to you.
Once you have a location, take all of the documents you gathered in step 1- 3 to the facility along with the appropriate passport application fees (check or money order). The fee will depend on whether you are getting just the passport or a few other ‘nice to have’ options they offer. I only have the passport but if you want the card, go for it.
5. Choosing Between Standard and Expedited Processing
Finally, you need to determine how quickly you want you passport in hand. Standard processing times are typically 10-13 weeks, but you can choose expedited service for an additional fee, reducing the wait time to around 7-9 weeks.
There is also an emergency option but where you can get it even faster, but it does require you visit an official passport agency. Some states have at least one office for the entire state, while other smaller states like Mississippi don’t have any at all. You’ll have to head over to Georgia or Lousiana if you have an urgent need. Check Travel.state.gov for a list of locations.
Keep an eye out for status updates by mail or online.
FAQs About Applying for a Passport
What is the processing time for a US passport?
The standard processing time for a US passport is typically 10-13 weeks. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee, which can shorten the time to about 7-9 weeks.
How much does it cost to apply for a first-time US passport?
The total cost for a first-time US passport is generally around $130 for the passport book, plus a $35 execution fee. Expedited service costs an additional $60.
What are the two requirements to receive a US passport?
The two key requirements to receive a US passport, are providing proof of US citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and presenting a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license.
Can I apply for a passport if I’ve lost my birth certificate?
Yes, but you will need to request an official copy of your birth certificate from the state or county where you were born before you can submit your passport application.
To Summarize
That’s it. Plain and simple. The process is very straightforward and if you gather the right document and fill out the forms correctly, you will have your passport in no time. Just remember to take your time and double check that everything is accurate before you submit.
If you have a trip already in your calendar, then track your passport status online or opt for expedited service to make sure you are ready when it’s time go!
Now the you are ready to apply for your first US passport, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful travel tips. Have any specific questions about applying for your passport?
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