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Tips For Applying For A New Passport

Tips For Applying For A New Passport

Tips For Applying For A New Passport

Whether you are planning to travel abroad for leisure or business purposes, you will need a passport to move around. A passport is a legal document issued by your government to allow you to travel outside the country of your origin. It helps in identifying you as a citizen of your country and confirms your identity. Renewing or obtaining a new passport may seem overwhelming at first, but here are some tips on how to obtain your passport quickly and hassle-free.

Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying for a passport, you need to determine if you are eligible for one. Citizens of every country have specific requirements to be met before they can get a passport. In the United States, you have to be a citizen of the country, or, in certain cases, a lawful permanent resident before you can go for a passport.

If you are a first-time adult applicant, then you may have to appear in person to apply. Minors are required to have their parents or guardians present during the application process. Moreover, if you already have an unexpired passport, you can use that to renew your passport.

Gather The Required Documents

When applying for a passport, you need to gather all the necessary documents to avoid delays or rejections. Here are some of the documents that you will need to have:

– DS-11 Form: This form is necessary for first-time adult passport applicants. You can fill it out online or print and fill it out by hand.
– Passport Photo: You need to submit two identical, recent, and professional-quality photographs. They should measure 2×2 inches, and the photo should be taken in front of a light background.
– Identification: You need to provide a valid ID when applying for a passport. A driver’s license or a state-issued ID can be used, but in certain cases, other documents such as a military ID, or a green card may be required.
– Payment: Passport applications come with a fee that depends on the type of passport and processing speed you choose. You can pay by check, card, or money order.

Fill Out The DS-11 Application Form

If you are a first-time applicant, you need to fill out the DS-11 form. This form is available online at travel.state.gov. You can fill it out and submit it online or print it out and complete it by hand. You should not sign the form unless advised to do so by the agent.

If you are renewing an existing passport, you may use the DS-82 form. This form can also be found online at travel.state.gov and can be completed online or by hand.

Submit Your Application

After completing your application, you can submit it in person or by mail. The processing time may vary depending on the type of service you opt for. Routine passport service takes four to six weeks, while expedited service takes two to three weeks. If you need your passport quickly, you can also request a one-day service, but do check to find out if the service is available before applying.

It’s important to note that some post offices and passport accepting facilities require appointments while others accept walk-ins. It’s always best to visit the website of the facility you intend to use for instructions on how they accept passports.

Keep Track Of Your Application Status

After submitting the application, you can track its status online. You can use the Department of State’s passport application status checker. It will let you know when your application was received by the government, if the processing has started, and if the passport has been mailed out to you. To avoid any inconvenience, always stay alert and keep track of your passport’s progress.

Renewing Your Passport

You need to renew your passport when it expires. It’s recommended that you renew your passport at least nine months before it expires. Replacing an expired passport is easier than applying for a new one. However, the steps are similar.

To renew your passport, follow these steps:

– Fill out the DS-82 renewal form
– Submit your most recent passport along with the application
– Provide two identical passport-sized photographs
– Pay the application fee

It’s important to note that if your name has changed since your last passport, you need to provide documentation to support the name change such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Lost or Stolen Passport

If you have lost your passport or it has been stolen, you need to report it immediately. This is important in preventing identity theft. You can do this by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or by visiting one of the Passport Acceptance Facilities.

Reporting a lost or stolen passport will also help speed up the replacement process. You will need to fill out a DS-64 form. Additionally, you will need to provide proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate or a prior passport, and a photo ID.

Conclusion

Obtaining a passport can be a bit overwhelming if you have never done it before. However, armed with the right information, you can apply for a new passport in no time. This article has provided some tips that are sure to make the application process easy and stress-free.

Always ensure you have all the necessary documents before beginning the application process. Additionally, keep an eye on your application status to ensure you avoid any delays. With these tips, you should be ready to apply for a new passport or renew your old one.


In order to apply for a new passport, United States citizens must fill out the new passport form. In addition, citizens will be required to provide specific proof of identity, citizenship and address. Individuals must also obtain two passport sized photos, which clearly show their face. Individuals must also pay the required new passport fee.

In order to apply for a new passport, individuals should first secure the passport form. The form will list all required proof of identity and other facts found on the form. For example, individuals will need an original birth certificate. In addition, individuals will need their original social security card. 

Two passport photos are required and those photos must reasonable resemble the individual applying for a new passport. The photos must not include items which block the individuals face, such as sunglasses, hats or scarves.

All required documentation must be brought to a passport office with the required fee.