How to Obtain a New U.S. Passport

In order enter many foreign countries, as well as to re-enter the United States after international travel, U.S. citizens require a passport book or a passport card. A passport book is good for travel everywhere, while a passport card is only good for travel in the western hemisphere. If this is the first passport issued, the citizen must apply in person at an acceptance facility or a passport agency. (See the "Resources" section for a link to available locations.)

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport $100 fee for adult passport book Certified birth certificate 2 identical passport photos Current photo identification
Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport
$100 fee for adult passport book
Certified birth certificate
2 identical passport photos
Current photo identification

Instructions

Step 1

Complete "Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport." The form is available on the U.S. Department of State's website, or in person at an authorized passport location. If accessing the form online, the user has the option to complete the form online, and then print it.

Step 2

Obtain two identical passport photos. Some passport locations offer the photos for an additional fee; otherwise ,the photos can be purchased from local retailers. The photos must be in color, 2-by-2-inches in size, taken within the past six months and have a full front view with a white background. Refer to the U.S. Department of State's website for additional details on photo requirements.

Step 3

Report to a passport agency or acceptance facility and present evidence of U.S. citizenship. Only a certified birth certificate (original), consular report of birth/certification of birth, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship are acceptable proof of U.S. citizenship.

Step 4

Provide an approved identification card as proof of identity. The only acceptable documents are a valid driver's license/state ID, current government ID (city, state, or federal) and current military ID.

Step 5

Pay the passport fee. As of 2010, the fee for an adult passport book is $100, which includes an execution fee of $25, and an application fee of $75. The fee for an adult passport card is $45, which includes an execution fee of $25 and an application fee of $20. These fees don't include additional fees typically charged by authorized agents accepting passport applications (such as the post office). Depending on the number of passports being processed, it can take anywhere from four to six weeks to receive a passport by standard delivery. An expedited service provides delivery in two to three weeks for an additional fee. Also be aware that additional documentation may be required upon request by the agency. Five to seven days after application submission, the status of the passport can be checked online at the U.S. Department of State's website.

Step 6

Check that all the information on the passport is complete and accurate upon receipt. All of the original documents submitted with the passport application will be returned by mail along with the passport.

Tips & Warnings

If a passport is needed immediately, contact the National Passport Information Center at (877) 487-2778, or go to its website to make an appointment as soon as possible. All minors under the age of 16 must apply in person, with a parent, and have signed parental consent from both parents.

If a passport is needed immediately, contact the National Passport Information Center at (877) 487-2778, or go to its website to make an appointment as soon as possible.

All minors under the age of 16 must apply in person, with a parent, and have signed parental consent from both parents.

Resources

Article Written By Cheri Pearson

Cheri Pearson is a professional writer/marketing professional, with experience in copywriting, technical and marketing communications, articles, and ghostwriting for private and corporate clients since 1994. She has a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Illinois, and a background in medical device marketing/product management in the renal industry.

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