How to Get Your Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a passport might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process if you prepare correctly. Whether you’re dreaming of international adventures or need to be ready for unexpected travel, getting your passport in order is crucial. This guide will walk you through each step of obtaining your U.S. passport, ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information for a smooth application process. It’s recommended to start your application well in advance of any planned travel, ideally several months beforehand, to account for processing times which can vary. Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information on processing times and any specific requirements.

Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents Early

The first and most crucial step in getting your passport is gathering all the necessary documentation. Starting early gives you ample time to collect everything and address any potential issues. For first-time applicants, minors, and those who cannot renew their passports by mail, applying in person is required, often conveniently available at a local Post Office. Before heading to your appointment, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Application Form DS-11 (Unsigned): This is the primary application form for a new U.S. passport. You can complete this form online via the State Department’s website, but remember to print it out and not sign it until instructed to do so in person.
• Proof of Identity: You’ll need an original proof of identity document and a photocopy of both the front and back. Acceptable documents include a driver’s license, identification card, or other government-issued IDs.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Provide an original document proving your U.S. citizenship, along with a photocopy of the front and back. This could be a birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or a previous U.S. passport.
• Passport Photos: You will need one recent passport photo that meets specific requirements regarding size, background, and facial expression. Many locations that accept passport applications, like Post Offices, also offer passport photo services.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay both acceptance fees to the Post Office and processing fees to the U.S. Department of State. Ensure you understand the different payment methods accepted for each.

Apply for a Passport in Person

Step 2: Prepare Your Passport Application Package

Once you’ve gathered your documents, the next step is to prepare your application package meticulously. Accuracy and completeness are key to avoiding delays in processing your passport.

1. Complete Form DS-11 Online: Navigate to the U.S. Department of State website and fill out the Form DS-11, Application for U.S. Passport. Completing it online helps ensure accuracy and legibility.
2. Print Your Application: After completing the online form, print it out clearly. It’s essential to use a printer that produces a crisp, readable copy.
3. Do Not Sign the Application: Wait to sign the application form. You will need to sign it in the presence of an authorized passport acceptance agent, such as a Postal employee, at the time of your appointment.
4. Get a Passport Photo: Obtain a passport photo that adheres to the U.S. Department of State’s guidelines. These guidelines specify size, background color (plain white or off-white), and requirements for your pose and expression. Services like those at Post Offices or photo studios are readily available to take passport photos.
5. Photocopy Identity and Citizenship Documents: Make clear photocopies of both the front and back of your proof of identity and proof of U.S. citizenship documents.
6. Calculate Your Passport Fees: Understand the fees associated with passport applications. These fees are divided into acceptance fees (paid to the Post Office) and processing fees (paid to the Department of State). Check the passport fees page for the current fee schedule. Post Offices typically accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for their acceptance fees. State Department fees, sent with your application, can be paid via personal check, certified check, cashier’s check, traveler’s check, or money order, payable to “U.S. Department of State.”

Get Started on Your Application

Step 3: Schedule a Passport Appointment

For in-person applications at a Post Office, scheduling an appointment is generally required. This ensures you have a dedicated time slot and helps streamline the application process. Post Offices offering passport services operate within specific hours, so booking in advance is highly recommended. You can schedule your appointment online using the Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or through a self-service kiosk at participating Post Office locations.

Scheduling Your Appointment Online:

1. Visit the Online Scheduler: Go to the Schedule an Appointment page on the USPS website.
2. Select Passport Service: Choose the specific passport service you require, such as “Passport Application,” and indicate the number of adults and minors needing appointments.
3. Search by Location or Date: You can search for available appointments either by location first or by date first, depending on your preference and flexibility.
4. Choose Appointment Time: Select a suitable appointment location, date, and time from the available options presented.
5. Enter Contact Information: Provide your contact details, including your name, email address, and phone number, and agree to the terms and conditions.
6. Review and Confirm: Carefully review your appointment details and then click Review Appointment to finalize and confirm your booking.

If you need to change or cancel your appointment, you can do so through the Manage Appointments tab on the scheduling website, using your confirmation number and either your email address or phone number.

Scheduling via Self-Service Kiosk:

1. Find a Kiosk Location: Locate a Post Office with a self-service kiosk. You can use the USPS Locations finder to find nearby kiosks.
2. Navigate to Passport Scheduler: At the kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select “Other Services,” followed by “Passport Scheduler.”
3. Choose Service and Number of Applicants: Select the passport service needed and enter the number of adult and minor applicants.
4. Search for Post Offices: Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code or City/State and choose your preferred location.
5. Select Appointment Slot: Choose an available appointment date and time and agree to the terms and conditions.
6. Enter Contact Details: Input your contact information and decide if you want to receive SMS text notifications about your appointment.
7. Confirm and Finalize: Review your details, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize your booking.
8. Get Your Receipt: Take the printed receipt which contains your confirmation number and all appointment details for your records.

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance and Processing Fees

Understanding the passport fees is essential for budgeting and ensuring you have the correct payment methods ready. For first-time passport applications, there are two primary fee types: application acceptance fees and application processing fees. Additional costs may include passport photos and expedited processing if needed.

Application Acceptance Fees – Paid at the Post Office

These fees are paid directly to the Post Office at the time of your in-person application. Acceptable payment methods typically include checks or money orders (payable to “Postmaster”), debit cards, or credit cards.

• $35.00 – Post Office acceptance fee
• $15.00 – Post Office photo fee (if you choose to get your photos taken there)

Application Processing Fees – Paid to the Department of State

These fees are sent along with your application package to the U.S. Department of State. It’s crucial to pay these separately from the USPS fees. Acceptable payment methods for State Department fees are personal checks, certified checks, cashier’s checks, traveler’s checks, or money orders, made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Ensure the payment is correctly filled out to avoid processing issues.

By following these steps and carefully preparing all required documents and payments, you can navigate the process of getting your passport efficiently. Remember to always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current guidelines and fee information before you begin your application.