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Get a US Passport in 3 Steps

Get a US Passport in 3 Steps

Get a US Passport in 3 Steps

Are you ready for an international adventure but don’t have a passport yet? No worries, getting a US passport is easier than you think. In just three simple steps, you can get your passport and be on your way to exploring the world. Here is everything you need to know about getting a US passport.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you begin the application process, you’ll need to gather a few important documents. Here is a list of the documents required to apply for a US passport:

1. Application Form DS-11 – The application form must be completed in full and signed. You can fill it out online, print it, and then bring it with you to your appointment.
2. Proof of Citizenship – You will need to bring one of the following:

– A certified copy of your birth certificate issued by a U.S. state, city, or county.
– Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth.
– Naturalization Certificate.
– Certificate of Citizenship.

3. Proof of Identity – You will need to bring one of the following:

– A previous U.S. passport book or passport card.
– A currently valid driver’s license.
– A currently valid government ID (city, state or federal).
– A currently valid military ID (military and dependents).

4. A passport photo – You will need to bring one color passport photo that meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.

Please note that all documents must be originals and will be returned to you. You cannot apply for a U.S. passport if you have any outstanding federal warrants, subpoenas, or summons.

Step 2: Apply In Person

Once you have gathered the required documents, the next step is to apply in person at an acceptance facility or a U.S. Passport Agency. Here is how to apply in person:

1. Find the nearest acceptance facility or U.S. Passport agency: To find your nearest facility visit the Department of State’s website or call 1-877-487-2778.

2. Schedule an appointment: Most acceptance facilities require that you schedule an appointment. You can do this online or by calling the nearest location.

3. Submit your application: Take your completed application, original documents, and passport photo with you to your appointment.

4. Pay the fee: The cost of a U.S. Passport varies depending on the type of passport and how quickly you need it. As of 2021, here are the fees:

– First-time passport book: $145 for adults, $115 for minors under 16.
– Passport renewal: $110 for adults, $80 for minors under 16.
– Expedited Service (for all): $60.

You can pay the fees by cash, credit card, check or money order.

Step 3: Wait and Receive

Now that you have completed the application process, it’s time to wait for your passport to be processed. Here is what you can expect:

1. Processing times vary: Routine service takes approximately 10-12 weeks. Expedited service takes 4-6 weeks. If you need your passport in less than four weeks, you will need to schedule an appointment at a Passport Agency.

2. Check Status Online: you can check your application status online anytime.

3. Receive your passport: Your passport will be mailed to you using Priority Mail with a tracking number.

Extra Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you get your passport easily and quickly:

– Apply during off-peak periods to avoid long wait times.
– Make sure all documents are originals and in good condition.
– Double-check the requirements for your specific application before your appointment.
– Get your passport photos taken at a passport photo facility.
– Take a passport card or book depending on your needs. A passport card is cheaper and is only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. A passport book is valid for all international travel.
– Make sure you have plenty of time before your trip to apply for your passport.

Final Thoughts

Getting a passport is essential for international travel. Following these three simple steps will make the process quick and easy. Remember, you must apply in person, bring the required documents, pay the fees, and wait for your passport to arrive. With a U.S. passport, you can go wherever your heart desires and experience new adventures around the world.


While many individuals might wonder how to get a passport, the process is a relatively easy one as long as all of that individual’s documents are in order and essential requirements are satisfied prior to the application process.

1. Required Documentation

In order to obtain a passport, it is imperative that a person be able to provide identifying – and accredited – documentation. In the event of an individual requesting a new passport, they are required to provide the following documents:

Proof of citizenship; this documentation can be served in various forms. In the event of a citizen of the United States, a legal – original copy of a – birth certificate is acceptable. In the event that the applicant is not a citizen, such forms of citizenship within other nations and countries are certificates of naturalization, consular reports, and certifications of citizenship.

In the event that an person is unsure of what documentation is required in how to get a passport that requires renewal, so long as they possess an expired and undamaged passport, they can use that particular passport as proof of citizenship.

2. Passport Photo

In addition to the completed passport application, the applicant must include 2 identical passport photos. These passport photos must:

Be in color and against a white background

Measure 2 inches by 2 inches; the head of the subject must be centered in the passport photo. In addition, the distance between the top of the subject’s head to the bottom of the subject’s chin must reside in between 1 inch and 1 3/8 of an inch.

Display the subject in casual attire with the exception of religious attire that is worn on a daily basis.

Display the subject devoid of unusual facial expressions and unapproved headwear

Display the subject looking directly at the camera

Be printed in a clear resolution on lightweight, glossy photo-paper

3. Associated Fees and Wait Times

The typical wait time prior to receiving a passport is between 4 and 6 weeks; however, there do exist cases in which passports can be expedited – doing so can lessen the wait-time from 2 to 14 days. In addition, individuals are encouraged to make payments via check, credit card, or money order; sending cash through the mail is never encouraged.

The fee for a passport issued to a minor – an individual below the age of 16 – is $100; this includes a $75 application fee and a $25 processing fee.

The fee for a passport issued to an individual over the age of 16 is $100; this includes a $65 application fee and a $20 processing fee.

In the event that an individual requires their own passport to be expedited, they can seek to do so with an added fee of $60 per passport.

In certain cases, countries require passports to be validated months in advance of the projected excursion; as a result, the applicant in encouraged to apply for a passport well in advance of their trip.