How to Get a Passport? How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?

How to Get a Passport?

Obtaining a U.S. passport within the United States involves a specific sequence of steps. The following outlines the process for applying for a U.S. passport:

Step 1: Complete the Application Form You have the option to either fill out the DS-11 passport application form online or download a printable version from the official U.S. Department of State website.

Step 2: Collect Required Documents To accompany your passport application, you'll need the following documents:

a) Proof of U.S. citizenship: This could be a certified birth certificate, a prior U.S. passport, a consular report of birth abroad, or a naturalization or citizenship certificate. 

b) Proof of identity: A valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or state-issued ID, is required. 

c) Passport photo: Attach a recent color passport photo adhering to the specifications set out by the U.S. Department of State.

Step 3: Determine Applicable Fees Refer to the official U.S. Department of State website to ascertain the current fee for a U.S. passport. Fees differ based on factors like age and whether you're applying for a passport book, card, or both.

Step 4: Submit Your Application Once you've completed the application form, gathered necessary documents, and calculated fees, submit your application. Typically, an in-person application at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or courthouse, is required. Some locations might necessitate scheduling an appointment in advance.

Step 5: Await Processing. Following submission, your application enters a processing phase. The duration to receive your passport varies according to prevailing processing times, accessible on the U.S. Department of State's official website. Generally, receiving your passport by mail takes a few weeks.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?

The duration for processing a U.S. passport varies depending on the chosen service type and application time. As per the U.S. Department of State guidelines, the overall passport issuance period encompasses both processing and mailing durations. The transit period for applications to reach a passport agency or center via mail can extend up to 2 weeks. Subsequently, once the passport is printed, it might take an additional 2 weeks for it to be delivered to you via mail.

For routine applications submitted on or after March 24, 2023, the current processing duration is estimated to be within 10 to 13 weeks. Should an expedited process be required, this period shortens to 7 to 9 weeks. In cases where international travel is scheduled within 14 calendar days, the option to apply for expedited service directly at a passport agency is available.

It is important to note that these processing timeframes exclude the time needed for mailing. Delivery of applications to passport agencies or centers via mail could consume up to 14 days.

How Much is a US Passport?

Individuals aged 16 and above, who are applying for their initial passport, are required to cover an application fee and an acceptance fee. The application fee structure comprises $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card, and $160 for a combination of both book and card, as detailed by the State Department. Concurrently, an acceptance fee of $35 is applicable for each of these options.

For those aged 16 and older seeking passport renewal, the application fees remain consistent. However, the acceptance fee is not applicable in this scenario. For children below the age of 16, the application fees are set at $100 for a passport book, $15 for a passport card, and $115 for the combined book and card. Similar to the aforementioned cases, a $35 acceptance fee pertains to each option.

Travelers in urgent situations can expedite their passport processing by paying an additional fee of $60. Moreover, they have the choice to spend an extra $19.53 to ensure delivery within one to two days. It's important to note that this expedited delivery option is not available for applicants applying solely for passport cards. To facilitate individuals in calculating their fees accurately, the State Department offers an online fee calculator.

Where Do I Go to Get a Passport?

For both routine and expedited services, individuals have the option to submit their applications at an acceptance facility or choose to renew their passport through the mail. It's worth noting that certain cases necessitate applying in person, such as individuals without a previous U.S. passport and children under the age of 16.

In circumstances where there's an imminent international travel plan scheduled within a span of 14 calendar days or a requirement for a foreign visa within 28 calendar days, a dedicated helpline can be accessed by dialing 1-877-487-2778. This avenue allows travelers to schedule an appointment, although certain limitations might apply as outlined by the State Department.

Additionally, individuals could potentially be eligible for emergency appointments in situations of critical need, particularly if they must embark on international travel within three business days. In essence, travelers are presented with various avenues to facilitate their passport application process, each catering to distinct scenarios and timeframes.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

It is important to note that U.S. citizens who have reservations for closed-loop cruises, denoting voyages that originate and conclude at the same U.S. port, possess the option of utilizing a combination of their birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID for entry into the country. However, for added security and preparedness, the State Department strongly recommends carrying a passport.

This advisory is particularly relevant in scenarios where unforeseen emergencies like sudden medical air evacuations or unexpected port changes might arise during the cruise journey.

The cruise line with which a traveler has made arrangements might also have specific passport requirements that should be taken into account. By taking these considerations into perspective, travelers can ensure a smoother experience and the ability to respond effectively to any unexpected circumstances that might emerge during their closed-loop cruise.

What Are the Required Documents to Apply for a Passport?

Necessary Documents

1. Form DS-11: Fill out the form online and print it on one side of the paper. *NOTE: You need to provide your Social Security number if you have one. If you don't have a Social Security number, please refer here.
2. Proof of U.S. citizenship (original + 1 photocopy)
3. Valid ID (original + 1 photocopy)
4. One passport photo
   1. Dimensions: 2″ × 2″
   2. Background: White
   3. No eyeglasses allowed in the photo
5. Non-refundable application fee
6. Evidence of Change of Name (if applicable)
   1. If your current ID does not match the name on your citizenship proof, bring documentation of your name change.
   2. All documents must be original, and if not in English, provide an English translation.
   3. Examples: Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Statutory Declaration, or Court Order
7. For applicants aged 16-17:
   1. They must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
   2. The accompanying adult needs to present a government-issued photo ID.

Ensuring you have all these documents ready will streamline the application process for a U.S. passport.