How to Order a Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Applicants
In today’s fast-paced world, with air travel becoming more and more accessible, getting a passport has become an essential requirement for many people. Whether you are planning a dream vacation, studying abroad, or seeking new job opportunities in another country, having a passport is crucial. However, for first-time applicants, the process of ordering a passport can be overwhelming. With the numerous forms to fill out, documents to provide, and fees to pay, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to order a passport for the first time.
Step 1: Determine which type of passport you need
The first step in ordering a passport is to determine which type of passport you need. There are two main types of passports: a passport book and a passport card. A passport book is the most common type of passport and can be used for international travel by air, sea, or land. A passport card, on the other hand, is a smaller, less expensive alternative to the passport book and can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. If you plan on traveling internationally by air, you will need to apply for a passport book.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
Once you have determined which type of passport you need, the next step is to gather the required documents. For a first-time passport applicant, you will need to provide the following documents:
– A completed DS-11 form: The DS-11 form is the application for a U.S. passport and can be downloaded from the U.S. Department of State’s website. The form must be filled out completely and accurately, and signed in the presence of a passport acceptance agent.
– Proof of U.S. citizenship: You will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a consular report of birth abroad.
– Proof of identity: You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a valid driver’s license, a state-issued ID card, or a military ID card.
– Passport photo: You will need to provide a recent passport photo that meets the U.S. Department of State’s requirements, such as being 2×2 inches in size, taken within the last six months, and showing a full face, front view, with a plain white or off-white background.
– Payment: You will need to pay the passport application fee, which is currently $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card, plus an execution fee of $35. These fees can be paid by check or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of State.
Step 3: Submit your application in person
Once you have gathered all the required documents, the next step is to submit your application in person. To do this, you will need to visit a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, courthouse, or library, where a passport acceptance agent will review your documents, administer an oath, and witness your signature on the DS-11 form. You will also need to provide your passport photo and pay the application and execution fees. It is important to note that you cannot mail in your application for a first-time passport.
Step 4: Wait for your passport to arrive
After you have submitted your application in person, the final step is to wait for your passport to arrive. The processing time for a first-time passport application is typically 4-6 weeks, but this can vary depending on the time of year and any delays in processing. If you need your passport sooner, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee. Once your passport has been processed, it will be mailed to you at the address you provided on the DS-11 form.
In conclusion, ordering a passport for the first time can be a daunting task, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process with ease. By determining which type of passport you need, gathering the required documents, submitting your application in person, and waiting for your passport to arrive, you will soon be ready to embark on your international adventures. Remember, a passport is not just a travel document – it is a gateway to new opportunities and experiences around the world. So don’t delay – start your passport application today and begin planning your next great adventure!
