How To Apply For Your Passport Online

by garrett on October 25, 2011

There are certain things that you need for international travel and proper documentation is one of them. You can go to your local passport office or you can check out applying for first time passport online. Since you no longer need to apply in person, you may want to hire a service that will act as your agent and who has couriers who will walk your application package through the process for you and return it to you quickly.

Form DS-11

Whoever you choose, you will have to provide certain documentation. Form DS-11 is a federal form that you will need to prepare if you have never received a prior passport. Form DS-82 is for those who used to have one but no longer is in possession of a valid document. Both of these forms can be downloaded or filled out online, either through a link or directly by the US State Department.

Proof Of Citizenship

Proof of US citizenship is a necessity. You can use an officially sealed birth certificate from your local municipality issuer. You can also use a Report of Birth Abroad issued by a consulate or a Naturalization Certificate. Should you not have this proof, you can use other forms of proof that are accompanied by Form DS-10, which is a Birth Affidavit.

Identification

You must also provide proof of your identification. Many documents are acceptable and they include a valid driver’s license, a military or other government primary or dependent ID or a Naturalization Certificate. Again, if you are lacking these documents, you can submit various other types of identification along with an Affidavit of Identifying Witness, Form DS-71.

Two Photos

Two pictures are also going to be necessary. There are sites, including post offices that can provide you with these photos. You may want to have them taken there since there are restrictions. These pictures must be identical and not older than six months. They must show your full face from the front with the facial portion measuring one to 1 3/4 inches from the crown of your head extending to the bottom of your chin. It should measure 2″ x 2″ and have a white or off-white background.

Contact Information

You will need to provide your contact information, including your physical and email address and your birthday. Your written itinerary or your travel dates and destination will suffice. You will also be provided with a letter providing authorization for the agent to discuss your application package on your behalf.

Processing Time

If you are in need of an expedited passport, you will be asked for an additional processing fee. These fees will vary depending on the service that you use and they will be in addition to the government fee of $170. You also have the choice of regular or quick delivery of your documentation once the process is complete.

You may want to purchase the passport card. These convenient cards may be used for travel to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexico and Canada. International travel is exciting and there is a lot to prepare for. Applying for first time passport online is an easy way to obtain the documentation you need.

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