How Does Getting a Passport Work?

Gather Your Documents

If you plan to travel outside the U.S., a passport is mandatory for travel to most locations. Getting a passport is easier now than ever. You can download forms from the State Department website and print them on your own home computer to start the passport application process. Once you gather the needed documents, pay the fee and submit your application, your passport will be mailed to your home address.

Should You Apply by Mail or in Person?

If you have never applied for a passport before, you will need to apply in person. There are passport offices located in several cities across the United States, or if you do not live in a city with a passport office, you can apply at the main branch of the United States Post Office in your town. Visit the USPS website for the hours of passport service. If you are renewing a passport, you can apply by mail providing that you return your old passport with your new application.

You will also need to submit two passport sized photos with your application which is currently 2 by 2 inches. Passport photos are easily obtainable and relatively inexpensive. Most stores that have photo developing in house also provide passport photo service, including many branches of CVS Pharmacy.

Fees and Other Documents

Along with your completed application and photos, you will need proof of U.S. citizenship. A generally acceptable document is a certified birth certificate. Certified means it has a raised seal; photocopies are not accepted.

The current passport fee is $100, which includes application and processing fees. Once your paperwork is submitted, your passport will be mailed to you in approximately three to four weeks. If you need a passport more quickly, you can pay an additional fee to have your passport application expedited.

Resources

• U.S. State Department Website
• U.S. Post Office