If you plan to travel outside of the United States, you are going to need a passport. Passports can be obtained at a number of different locations within your community, such as post offices, libraries, and municipal government offices. A simple Google search will provide you with the location closest to you.
However, you cannot simply walk into one of these locations and expect to receive your passport right away. Here are several things you need to know about getting your first passport.
You Must Apply in Person
All first time passport applicants must apply in person at a passport location.
You Need A Lot of Documents
Before you head over to your local passport location, you must gather all of the necessary documentation. You will need to bring these documents with you:
- Proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or certificate of Naturalization
- Photo Identification, such as a valid driver’s license, government or military ID
- DS-11 application form, completed
- Photocopies (front and back) of your ID papers
There are very strict guidelines for acceptable documents. You must bring your original birth certificate or Naturalization papers. However, you will also need photocopies of them as well as your other ID papers. To ensure you adhere to the strict guidelines about copying your documents, click here.
You Need a Current Photo
Much like your driver’s license, your passport will contain a photo to help identify you. While you can pay an additional fee at the passport location for your photo, you can also have one taken ahead of time.
You can even take your own photo, provided the photo:
- has been taken within the last six months
- is in color
- is printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size
- has been sized such that the head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (between 25 and 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
- is taken in front of a plain white or off-white background
- is taken in full-face view directly facing the camera
- is taken with a neutral facial expression (preferred) or a natural smile, and with both eyes open
Additionally, you must wear regular clothing, no uniforms or uniform like items are allowed. Hats, head coverings or scarves are forbidden, unless for religious purposes. Dark glasses or tinted lenses are not permitted unless you have documentation stating they are medically necessary.
Your photo should be attached to the completed DS-11 form.
You Must Pay the Passport Fee
Passports are not free and the price is subject to change. Be sure to check with your local passport location for the exact fee and make sure you pay it in full.
Once you have completed all of these steps, your passport should arrive in approximately 6 weeks. However, the wait can be longer if a large number of people are applying at the same time. Therefore, you should apply for your passport several months before you plan to leave.