How to get a Passport

A passport is documentation that is required in traveling in and out of the country. It is also good to have because now a days if you do not have the proper identification, your nobody. With tight security since the world trade tragedy, it is a good idea to get a passport even if you do not plan on traveling out of the country. Here's how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Birth certificate (original)
• Driver's license
• Social security number

1. Gather proof of U.S. citizenship by collecting your birth certificate, driver's license and social security card. If you do not have your card, have your number memorized, you will need this to obtain a passport.
2. You can get an application on line or at your local post office.
   Follow the instructions on pages one and two. If you are downloading an application, you will want to complete pages 3 and read page 4. If printing, know that you must print on white paper with no holes or perforations.
3. Get two photos taken. You can wear your everyday clothes, no sunglasses though and no uniforms and no hats. Get US passport photos taken at the post office -- they'll know the drill and requirements. You can get photos taken in a place where they advertise pass port photos also.
4. Prepare to pay the passport application and execution fees; which change periodically. I paid $97.00 for mine. There is an extra $60 plus overnight fees will expedite your application.
5. Go to your local post office, provide them with the application, documents and take a seat. It shouldn't take longer than an hour. Pay the fee and wait 6 weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• If it is your first time you need to apply in person
• Passport applications sent together or at the same time do not necessarily remain together.
• Your passport book and/or your passport card may be mailed separately from your returned citizenship evidence.
• If you need your passport for a foreign visa, within 14 days and need to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency: Automated lines to make appointments are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT A PASSPORT AGENCY. CUSTOMERS SHOULD NOT PAY ANYONE OR ANY BUSINESS MAKING SUCH A CHARGE.
• You can renew your passport by mail if: Your most recent passport is available to submit and it is not damaged ; you received the passport within the past 15 years ; you were over age 16 when it was issued ; you still have the same name, or can legally document your name change.