How To Get A Passport

Getting a passport is often critical. It require some proof of citizenship, and a driver's license is not adequate proof.

Time Required : 4 to 6 weeks

• Obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate

• Have two passport pictures made at a local merchant

• Download passport application from State Department website

• Print copy of application in Adobe format

• Complete application carefully

• Go to nearest designated government location to pay and mail

• Mail to address on application; address differs based on where you live

• Wait 4 to 6 weeks, depending on time of year

Tips:

• If you already have a passport, you can use it in lieu of a certified birth certificate.

• If you are willing to pay a premium, you can obtain a passport in much less time.

How To Get A US Passport Quickly

• Steps :
  1. Get two identical 2-by-2-inch (5-by-5-cm) passport photos. Look under "Passport Photos" in the Yellow Pages for the nearest instant-photo service.

  2. Locate the nearest passport office. Look under "Passports" in the "U.S. Government Offices" section of your phone book. You can also call the National Passport Information Center at (900) 225-5674 or log onto the U.S. State Department's passport Web site (travel.state.gov/passport_services.html) and click on "Where to Apply for a Passport Nationwide." To save even more time, download a passport application from the site.

  3. Make a special appointment by calling the passport office if you're leaving in less than 14 days. If you're leaving within six business days, skip the appointment and head to the nearest passport office immediately and take along your airline tickets or airline-generated itinerary to prove your need for speed. Bring the photos and your old passport--or, if you don't have one, your birth certificate and valid driver's license. For each application, in addition to the standard fee (see travel.state.gov/newfees.html), you will need to pay a $60 fee for expedited service plus fees for two-way overnight mail.

  4. Go to one of the 5,000 passport acceptance facilities nationwide if your departure is within 7 to 10 business days. Such facilities include federal, state and probate courts; post offices; libraries; and county and municipal offices. Pay the extra $60 expedited-service fee and provide a self-addressed, prepaid, two-way overnight delivery envelope that's clearly marked "Expedited." If you're departing in less than seven days, drive to the nearest passport office and get in line.

  5. Make a copy of your passport's identification page along with two passport-size photos and bring them with you, in case you need to apply for an emergency passport replacement while traveling abroad. If you lose your passport, visit the nearest U.S. consulate as soon as possible for a replacement.

• Tips :
  1. You can get passport forms from any passport agency or acceptance facility. Many travel agents stock application forms as well.

  2. Always include your departure date and travel plans on your passport application.

  3. Some countries require that your passport be valid at least six months beyond the dates of your trip.

  4. The U.S. State Department (travel.state.gov/foreignentry reqs.html) has a country-by-country listing of visa and passport requirements.

• What to look for :
  1. Passport photos
  2. Nearest passport office
  3. Airline tickets or itinerary
  4. Expired passport
  5. Additional fees