All United States citizens, regardless of age, are required to have a passport when travelling outside of the country, which even includes newborns. Although this is an extremely important document, acquiring one is quite easy as long as you follow the guidelines. All it takes are the right papers and knowing the rules when applying for a passport.
Important Steps
This is one of the most important steps as you will need to provide all information required which will include your social security number. However, you are not to sign this until instructed to. If any information is missing on the application, you risk a delay or denial of your request. You can get applications at courthouses, post offices, and agencies.
Mail Submission
Although there are cases where you can apply through the mail, all first time applicants must do so in person. Other cases that require applying in person include anyone under the age of 16, replacing one issued when you were under the age of 16, and for those who have not had one in more than 15 years. You will also need to apply in person if yours has been stolen, lost, or damaged.
Photo Requirements
You are responsible for bringing two photographs with you to send along with your application. Those photos must follow regulated guidelines. Proof of citizenship is also required and can be easily done with a certified birth certificate issues from the country, city, or state of birth. Certificate of citizenship, naturalization certificate, and undamaged previous passports are also acceptable forms of proof.
Citizenship Proof
You will also need to prove that you are who you say you are with a photo ID. Just as with the citizenship proof, several types of identification are acceptable. The easiest form of proof is a valid driver’s license. However, if you do not have one, previously issued passports can be used as well as naturalization certificates. Current government and military IDs are also acceptable.
Expedite Fees
A processing fee and an additional one for expedited processing is required. There is a processing fee for passports and depending on where you apply, there may also be other fees added onto that. In general, it takes 6 to 8 weeks for a passport to arrive, so it is highly recommended that you apply as soon as you know you’ll need one or at least eight weeks before you need it. You may request to have the processing expedited for a quicker turnaround, but this is also an additional fee.
Renewing
Certain individuals are able to apply through the mail but only if they don’t fall into any category above where they must apply in person. Usually, renewing or legally changing your name can be done by mailing everything in yourself. There is still a processing fee included and you’ll need to send that and your previously issued passport along with the application when you apply.
Regulations
Before applying, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with all the rules and regulations first. You can avoid headaches and frustration by preparing proof of citizenship, photo identification, and proper photographs to include with your properly filled out application for expedite passport services. By following the rules when applying for a passport, you will enjoy a smooth, pain free experience, and have your passport before you know it.
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