Passport Requirement in the USA

Passport Requirement in the USA
Are you ready for an international adventure? If you're planning a glacier hike in New Zealand, a kayaking trip in Brazil or a bike trek through Europe, you will need a passport. Check these requirements before you apply. Please note: This is information for adults over the age of 16. Children under the age of 16 must follow a different procedure.
Grab your gear and your passport and get ready to trek the world.
"El mundo es tuyo..." is Copyrighted by Flickr user: Daquella manera (Daniel Lobo) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.

The Application

The passport application, Form DS-11, is available online (see Resource 3). This form can be completed in advance but must signed in person.

Proof of Citizenship

According to the U.S. Department of State, you must submit either a birth certificate, a previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate or a Certificate of Citizenship.

Identification

In addition to your proof of citizenship, you must also provide proof of identity. A primary source and a photocopy of that source are required at your Acceptance Facility.

Payment

Passport fees are always changing. For the most up-to-date information, check the U.S. Department of State website (see Resource 1).

Photos

You are required to submit two passport-sized photos. Passport photos are available from a variety of retailers including Walgreens, the UPS Store, JCPenney and various local photo studios.

Where to Bring Your Documents

To apply for your first passport, you must bring the proper documents to either a Passport Agency or an Acceptance Facility (see Reference No. 2).

Article Written By Jessica Powers

Jessica Powers has been writing online professionally since 2009. Her articles have focused on travel, law and general knowledge. Currently, she is working on a creative project about the art of beer tourism. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Minnesota.

Write for Trails.com
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