How to File for a U.S. Passport
If you're going on a foreign trip, it's best to apply for your passport at least eight weeks before you plan to leave, to allow time for processing and any possible complications.
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Instructions
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Pick up a passport application. To find your nearest passport agency, look in the government pages of the phone book under 'Passport' or 'Immigration.' You can also apply for a passport at many courts, post offices and libraries.
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Download an application from the State Department's Web site (www.travel.state.gov) if you cannot find one locally.
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Get two passport pictures at a photography shop, usually for $10. Make sure the photos match the dimensions of the diagram on your form. Color or black-and-white is acceptable, but the picture must have a white background.
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Fill out the passport application and attach photos where noted.
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Take the completed application to the location where you obtained the form, with your birth certificate or other citizenship papers. Your birth certificate must be an original, not a copy. If you're renewing a passport issued within the past 15 years, you may be able to apply by mail. Check with a passport agency or the State Department Web site for details.
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Provide a current address where you can receive mail.
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Ask the passport officer for expedited service if you need the passport in less than eight weeks. Keep in mind that expedited service requires an additional fee and, in some cases, additional documentation.
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Expect to wait six to eight weeks if expedited service is not requested.
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Tips & Warnings
Get multiple application forms in case you make a mistake.
Carry a photocopy of your passport in a safe place; if you lose your passport, you'll be able to replace it more quickly.
Some foreign countries don't require a passport for entry. Check with your passport office or with the embassy of the country you plan to visit.
If your passport is more than 10 years old, you need a new one. Children under 16 need to renew every 5 years.
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Comments
View all 7 Comments-
buckthunder
Dec 14, 2010
i got a form ds-11 cause its my first passport. it ask for travel plans like date of trip, length of trip, and countrys to be visited. what if your not sure when your going to go on a trip? cause i just want to have one so if i want to go somewher i'll already have one. woill be greatful for the advice. -
sutti15
Jul 01, 2007
U can get cheap passport photos in CVSPharmacy. 6 passport photos costs 7.99USD only..
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Nov 22, 2005
If the state loses your birth certificate and you've recieved a new one, be sure to save all documents because you will need them to get a passport also. Your new birth certificate will not be enough.
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Nov 22, 2005
If you were adopted and your birth certificate shows your original name while your adoption papers show something different, expect problems. It took 5 tries before the passport office stopped separating (and then losing) my documents.
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Nov 22, 2005
Costco and AAA now both sell passport photos for about $6.00 - fast and cheap! Also at AAA you can get an International Drivers Permit (based on you US driver's license) allowing you to drive in most of the world's counties.
