Getting a Passport in Maryland: Everything You Need to Know
For many people in Maryland, the possibility of traveling abroad is an exciting prospect. Whether it’s for a vacation, business trip, or to visit family and friends, having a passport is essential for crossing international borders. If you’re a Maryland resident and considering getting a passport for the first time, or need to renew an existing one, here’s everything you need to know about the process.
The first step in obtaining a passport in Maryland is to gather all the necessary documents. You will need to have a completed DS-11 form, which is the application for a U.S. passport. This form can be downloaded from the Department of State’s website or obtained from a local passport acceptance facility. Additionally, you will need to provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport.
In addition to proving your citizenship, you will also need to present a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID. It’s important to note that photocopies of identification documents will not be accepted, so be sure to bring the original documents with you when applying for your passport.
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, the next step is to submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility. In Maryland, there are several locations where you can apply for a passport, including post offices, public libraries, and county clerk’s offices. Many of these facilities require appointments, so be sure to check their hours of operation and scheduling procedures before showing up.
During your appointment, a passport acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, and collect your application fee. The current fee for a first-time adult passport is $110, plus a $35 processing fee. If you need to expedite your application, you can pay an additional fee of $60 to receive your passport in 4-6 weeks instead of the standard 6-8 weeks.
After your application has been submitted, you can track the status of your passport online using the Department of State’s website. Once your passport has been processed and approved, it will be sent to you via mail. It’s important to note that someone must be present to sign for the delivery of your passport, so be sure to provide a secure mailing address where someone will be available to receive it.
If you already have a passport that is expired or about to expire, you can renew it by mail using form DS-82. To be eligible for renewal by mail, your previous passport must have been issued within the last 15 years, and you must have been at least 16 years old at the time of issuance. The renewal fee is $110, and you will need to include your old passport, a new passport photo, and a self-addressed stamped envelope with your application.
In addition to the standard passport application process, there are a few special circumstances that may apply to certain applicants in Maryland. For example, if you are applying for a passport for a child under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians must be present to provide consent. If one parent is unable to appear in person, they can fill out form DS-3053, which is a statement of consent.
Additionally, if you are applying for a passport for someone who is unable to sign their name, such as a minor or individual with a disability, you can fill out form DS-3053, which is a statement of consent. In this case, the passport acceptance agent will witness the signature of the person applying for the passport and attest to their identity.
Overall, the process of getting a passport in Maryland is straightforward and relatively simple. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in order, you can obtain a passport with ease and prepare for your next international adventure. So whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, a European excursion, or a business trip overseas, be sure to get your passport in order and start packing your bags for an unforgettable journey.
