Before confirming reservations and plans, learn how to obtain a new passport by going through the process months in advance. The applications can be printed out at home. All members of the family need passports, even newborn babies. Some find the process to be complicated but in reality, it only takes a few forms, a photo and a couple of weeks for processing. Applying is easy and will be the least of your worries when it is time to travel abroad.
Passport Applications
The application is available on the Internet to be printed at home on matte white paper. Renewals can be mailed or taken to the Passport Acceptance Facility that is closest to your place of residence. This form will generally request information such as your Social Security, age, height, and address. It will only take a couple of minutes to fill them out.
Photograph
Each application requires a recently taken photo of the applicant. It must be 2×2 inches and be taken with a white or off-white background. No hats or head coverings may be worn in the photo unless worn on a daily basis as part of a religious custom. Sunglasses and work uniforms are also not allowed. The best way to have this picture taken is at a post office for a small fee.
Citizenship
A document that proves citizenship will have to be included in the application. For those who were born in the United States, an original birth certificate with a raised seal is best. When renewing, old passports may be used.
Identity
Proof of identity is also needed for the application. A driver’s license is best. Minors can use a school ID with a photo. Old passports can also be used as proof of identity.
Fees
New passports cost $110 for the application fee and $25 for the execution fee. The fees will not be returned, even if the application is not approved. They will need to be completed in person at the facility. Most payment types are accepted at the facility such as cash, credit and check.
Passport Renewals
A renewal costs just $110 for the application fee. They do not have to be completed in person. Checks and money orders can be used as payment when paying through the mail. Be sure to renew about 9 months before passports expire.
Child Passports
Minors under 16 years of age will require parental consent. They will need to send in their passports in person at the facility. Even newborns need their very own passports, complete with a photo.
Expedited Services
Expedited applications will take at most, 3 weeks to process. Overnight shipping is recommended when passports are needed quickly. There is a $60 additional fee required for expedited applications. Be sure to write “expedite” on the outside of the envelope so that it can be processed through the mail.