Requirements to Attain a Passport
An abundance of travel options has made globetrotting a reality in the modern world. But before you can travel abroad, a valid U.S. passport is required. To obtain a government-issued passport, travelers must apply in person or via the mail and provide official documentation to verify their citizenship and identity. There are a few simple steps to follow to make sure all passport requirements are met.
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U.S. Passport Requirements
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On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government implemented a law requiring all citizens returning from international destinations to have a valid, government-issued passport or passport card.
When returning to the United States via air, all travelers are required to have a valid passport. Due to new government travel requirements, air travelers returning from Canada and Mexico must present a valid U.S. passport for re-entry as well.
Travelers returning to the United States via land or sea from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or Bermuda are required to present a valid U.S. passport. Land travelers may also present a valid U.S. passport card, which allows re-entry into the United States.
Requirements for Children
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A valid U.S. passport is now required for all children from birth to age 18 years old. Children must present a valid passport when re-entering the United States at airports.
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Applying In Person
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U.S. passports must be applied for in person if you are applying for your first passport; are under age 16, your previous passport was issued when you were under the age of 16, your passport was lost or stolen, you have legally changed your name or if your passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
A completed DS-11: Application for U.S. Passport form must be applied for at a passport agency or acceptance facility.
Applicants must submit primary evidence of citizenship by providing one of the following: certified birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, consular report of birth abroad or certificate of birth; naturalization certificate or a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport.
Applicants must also present identification by providing one of the following: a valid driver's license, naturalization certificate, a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport; current government ID or current military ID. Applicants are required to submit a photocopy of the identification document presented.
Applicants are required to pay the passport fee and to provide two passport photos.
Renewing By Mail
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U.S. passports can be renewed by mail if your undamaged passport can be submitted with your application, your passport was issued less than 15 years ago, your passport was issued under your current legal name and if your passport was issued when you were 16 years or older.
When renewing a U.S. passport by mail, applicants must submit Form DS-82: Application for U.S. Passport by Mail.
Helpful Tips
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Visit the U.S. Department of State's website for extensive information on applying for a passport. All required application forms can be found there.
Passports generally take 6-8 weeks to process. If you need your passport in a hurry, expedited services are available for additional fees.
Passport photos can be taken at select U.S. Post Offices and retailers such as Walgreens and Kinko's.
Passport applications can be filled out and mailed at U.S. Post Offices.
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References
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