How Do I Get My Passport? Your Step-by-Step Guide

Planning an international trip? One of the first and most crucial steps is securing your U.S. passport. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need to renew, understanding the process can save you time and stress. This guide will walk you through each step of obtaining your passport, ensuring you’re ready for your international adventures.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents Well in Advance

It’s wise to start your passport application process as soon as you have international travel plans. Passport processing times can fluctuate, so checking the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current estimates is essential. Applying well in advance, ideally several months before your trip, minimizes stress and allows ample time for any unexpected delays.

For first-time applicants, minors, and those who cannot renew by mail, applying in person is necessary. A convenient option for many is submitting your application at a United States Post Office that offers passport services. To ensure a smooth process, gather all required documents beforehand. According to the U.S. State Department, you will generally need to bring the following:

• Application Form DS-11 (unsigned): You’ll need to complete this form but do not sign it until instructed to do so by an authorized passport acceptance agent.
• Proof of Identity: This could be a valid driver’s license, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. You must also provide a photocopy of both the front and back of your identity document.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This can be an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. A photocopy of the front and back of your citizenship document is also required.
• Passport Fees: Be prepared to pay the necessary fees for your passport application and acceptance services.

Refer to the official passport fee page for the most up-to-date costs.

Step 2: Prepare Your Passport Application Package Meticulously

Before heading to your appointment, meticulous preparation of your application package is key. The U.S. Department of State provides comprehensive instructions on their website on how to apply for a passport and the necessary documentation.

1. Complete Form DS-11 Online: Access the Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport directly on the State Department’s website. Fill out the form accurately and completely online.
2. Print Your Application: After completing the online form, print it out. Remember, DO NOT SIGN the application form until you are instructed to do so in front of a Postal employee or authorized agent.
3. Obtain a Passport Photo: You will need to provide one passport photo that meets specific requirements regarding size, background, and image quality. Many drugstores and photo centers offer passport photo services, or you can take one yourself adhering to the State Department’s guidelines.
4. Photocopy Identity and Citizenship Documents: Make photocopies of your proof of identity and U.S. citizenship documents as mentioned in Step 1. Ensure they are clear and legible, and copy both sides of each document.
5. Calculate and Prepare Fees: Understand the different fees involved, including application processing fees payable to the State Department and acceptance fees payable to the Post Office. Post Offices typically accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for their acceptance fees. State Department fees are mailed in with your application, and payment methods accepted include personal checks, certified checks, cashier’s checks, traveler’s checks, or money orders, payable to “U.S. Department of State.”

Visit the State Department’s application page to begin your online form.

Step 3: Schedule Your Passport Appointment Efficiently

Post Offices offering passport services operate during specific hours, and appointments are generally required. Scheduling your appointment in advance is crucial to avoid long waits and ensure service availability. You can easily schedule an appointment using the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or through a self-service kiosk at participating Post Office locations.

Scheduling Your Appointment Online:

1. Access the Scheduler: Go to the Schedule an Appointment page on the USPS website.
2. Select Passport Service: Choose the specific passport service you require (e.g., first-time application, renewal if applicable) and indicate the number of adults and minors needing appointments.
3. Search for Availability: You can search for appointments by location first or by date first, depending on your preference. If searching by location, you’ll then select a date and time; if searching by date, you’ll choose a location and time.
4. Provide Contact Information: After selecting your preferred appointment location and time, enter your contact information and agree to the provided Terms and Conditions.
5. Confirm Your Appointment: Click Review Appointment to verify all details and then confirm your appointment.

If you need to make changes or cancel your appointment, use the Manage Appointments tab, and enter your confirmation number and email address or phone number.

Scheduling via Self-Service Kiosk:

1. Locate a Kiosk: Visit a Post Office location equipped with self-service kiosks. You can Find USPS Locations online.
2. Navigate the Kiosk Menu: At the kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select “Other Services,” followed by “Passport Scheduler.”
3. Specify Service and Number of Applicants: Choose the passport service needed and enter the number of adults and minors requiring appointments.
4. Choose Location: Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and select a convenient location.
5. Select Date and Time: Choose an available appointment date and time from the options presented and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
6. Enter Contact Information: Input your contact information and decide if you wish to receive SMS text notifications about your appointment.
7. Finalize Scheduling: Review and confirm all entered information, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize.
8. Obtain Confirmation Receipt: Take the printed receipt, which includes your confirmation number and complete appointment details.

Step 4: Understand and Pay Passport Fees

Applying for a passport involves two primary fee types for first-time applicants: the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Additional costs may include passport photos and fees for expedited processing, should you require faster service. Understanding how to calculate these fees and accepted payment methods is important.

Application Acceptance Fees – Payable to the Postal Service

These fees are paid directly at the Post Office when you submit your application in person. Payment methods accepted for acceptance fees 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 have your photo taken at the Post Office)

Application Processing Fees – Payable to the Department of State

State Department processing fees are sent along with your application package. These fees are separate from USPS fees. Payment to the State Department must be made via personal check, certified check, cashier’s check, traveler’s check, or money order, payable to “U.S. Department of State.”

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can navigate the passport application process with greater ease. Remember to always refer to the U.S. Department of State website for the most current information and requirements. Start early, stay organized, and you’ll be one step closer to your international journey!