Where to Apply for a US Passport: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re planning to travel abroad soon, you might need to apply for a US passport. But where exactly should you go to apply? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about where to apply for a US passport.
First things first: if you’re a first-time applicant or if your previous passport was issued when you were under the age of 16, you’ll need to apply in person. This also applies if your previous passport was lost, stolen, damaged, or if it’s been more than 15 years since it was issued.
The most common place to apply for a US passport is at a Passport Acceptance Facility. These facilities are usually located in post offices, public libraries, county clerk’s offices, or other government buildings. To find a Passport Acceptance Facility near you, you can use the Department of State’s online Passport Acceptance Facility search tool.
When you go to a Passport Acceptance Facility, you’ll need to bring a few things with you. First and foremost, you’ll need to bring a completed DS-11 form, which is the application for a US passport. You can fill out this form online and print it out, or you can pick one up at the Passport Acceptance Facility.
You’ll also need to bring proof of US citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a naturalization certificate. If you’re a naturalized citizen, you’ll also need to bring proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate or a court order.
Additionally, you’ll need to bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a military ID. You’ll also need to bring a photocopy of the front and back of your ID.
Finally, you’ll need to bring a passport photo. The photo must meet certain requirements, such as being 2×2 inches in size, taken within the last six months, and showing a full face with a neutral expression.
Once you’ve gathered all of these documents, you’ll need to pay the passport fee. The fee for a first-time adult applicant is $145, while the fee for a minor applicant (under the age of 16) is $115. These fees can be paid by check or money order made out to the “Department of State.”
After you’ve submitted your application at the Passport Acceptance Facility, you can expect to receive your passport in the mail within 4-6 weeks. If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite the process for an additional fee. Expedited passports are typically processed within 2-3 weeks.
If you’re unable to apply for a US passport at a Passport Acceptance Facility, you may be able to apply at a US embassy or consulate if you’re overseas. This is especially helpful for US citizens living abroad who need to renew their passport or replace a lost or stolen passport.
To apply for a US passport at a US embassy or consulate, you’ll need to schedule an appointment in advance. You’ll also need to bring all of the same documents mentioned earlier, as well as proof of your travel plans.
It’s important to note that not all US embassies and consulates offer passport services. Before making an appointment, it’s a good idea to check the embassy or consulate’s website or contact them directly to confirm that they can assist with passport applications.
In some cases, you may be able to apply for a US passport by mail. This option is available for renewing adult passports only, and certain eligibility requirements must be met. To renew your passport by mail, you’ll need to fill out a DS-82 form and mail it in with your current passport, a new passport photo, and the passport fee.
Renewing your passport by mail is a convenient option for those who are unable to apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility or who do not need their passport within the next few weeks. Renewing by mail typically takes 4-6 weeks, just like applying in person.
In conclusion, if you’re wondering where to apply for a US passport, the answer depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll need to apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. If you’re renewing your passport, you may be able to apply by mail. And if you’re overseas, you can apply at a US embassy or consulate.
No matter where you apply, be sure to bring all of the necessary documents, pay the passport fee, and follow the instructions carefully. With a little bit of preparation and organization, you’ll have your US passport in hand and be ready to embark on your next international adventure.
