Obtaining a U.S. passport is a crucial step for Americans looking to travel internationally. A passport serves as both an identity document and proof of citizenship, enabling smooth entry and exit from countries across the globe. Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents and other important information every U.S. citizen needs to know when applying for a passport.
1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
You will need to provide one of the following documents as proof that you are a U.S. citizen:
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state of birth. It must include your full name, date and place of birth, your parent(s)’ full names, the date the certificate was filed with the registrar’s office, and a signature from the official in charge of records.
- Certificate of Citizenship: If you acquired citizenship through your parents or were born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, a Certificate of Citizenship issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will be required.
- Naturalization Certificate: For naturalized citizens, you must submit the original Certificate of Naturalization that shows your citizenship status.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad: If you were born outside the U.S. to American parents, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) is necessary.
2. Proof of Identity
To verify your identity, you will need to submit one of the following documents:
- Valid Driver’s License: Your driver’s license issued by any U.S. state or territory, with your photo and full legal name.
- Government Employee ID: A valid U.S. government or military identification card with your photo.
- Current or Expired Passport: If you already have an expired U.S. passport (within 15 years of issuance), you can use that as proof of identity, provided it was issued when you were over the age of 16.
- Certificate of Naturalization: This can also be used as both proof of citizenship and identity.
3. Passport Photo
You will need to submit one recent passport-sized photo that meets specific government requirements:
- The photo must be 2×2 inches.
- The photo must have a plain white or off-white background.
- You must have a neutral facial expression, eyes open, and face fully visible.
- No glasses allowed in the photo (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note).
Make sure the photo is clear, in color, and printed on glossy or matte photo-quality paper.
4. Completed Application Form
You must complete Form DS-11 if applying for the first time or Form DS-82 if renewing. These forms can be filled out online or downloaded from the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Important Tip:
Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by the acceptance agent at the passport application center.
5. Passport Fees
The passport fees vary depending on the type of service requested:
- Adult Passport Book (first-time): $130 application fee + $35 acceptance fee.
- Adult Passport Renewal: $130 (no acceptance fee required).
- Child Passport (under 16 years): $100 application fee + $35 acceptance fee.
For faster service, you can request expedited processing for an additional $60, which reduces the processing time from 10-13 weeks to 7-9 weeks.
6. Additional Requirements for Minors
If you are applying for a passport for a child under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians must be present when submitting the application, or provide a notarized statement of consent from the absent parent. You will also need proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, proof of parental relationship, and identification from both parents.
Proof of Parental Relationship:
- Child’s birth certificate with parent(s)’ names.
- Adoption decree.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Other Important Information
Where to Apply
First-time applicants must apply in person at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility, which includes U.S. post offices, some public libraries, and government offices. Renewals can often be done by mail.
Processing Time
As of 2024, regular processing takes around 10 to 13 weeks due to high demand, while expedited processing shortens the wait to 7 to 9 weeks. If you have a sudden or urgent travel need, such as for a family emergency, you can apply for emergency services at a regional passport agency.
Travel Safety Considerations
It is always important to ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining before international travel, as some countries enforce this requirement strictly.
By preparing these essential documents and understanding the process, you can ensure a smoother and faster passport application experience. Having a valid passport opens the door to exploring the world beyond U.S. borders, making it an important document for every citizen!