How to Get a Passport in the US

Passports are a requirement upon entering most countries. Getting a passport makes traveling much easier and removes many of the time consuming hurdles of international travel. Whether your travel is for work or play, leisure or business, keep reading to learn how to get a passport.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Birth certificate
• 2 2x2 headshot photographs
• Driver's license

1. Obtain and complete a passport application; you can download an application for a US passport online (see link below) or you can get one from your local distributing agency.

2. Gather the necessary documentation for getting a passport; a birth certificate or other proof of American citizenship. Other options are your old passport, or your certificate of naturalization. You will also need another form of identification; a driver’s license or one of the previously listed items work as well.

3. A passport application requires 2 recent 2x2 headshot photographs. They must be clear. These can be taken at most locations that offer passport applications, but they can also be taken at other vendors, such as Costco, for a cheaper price.

4. Pay the passport application fee. Next, your passport will be mailed to you, usually within 4 weeks- be sure to plan ahead for the wait time.

Resources

• Travel.State.Gov