Current Passport information – How, When, and Where

Passport

If you are planning on traveling abroad the most frequently asked question is usually about your passport.

How do you get one, when should you get it, and where do you go to apply for it?

Since 9-11, travel in and out of the US has been getting more complex with good reason. The recent travel laws have gotten more strict to provide safety to all travelers. Air travel is a bit more complex and passport regulations have definitely gotten a bit more strict. In fact, until recently you could travel to Canada by simply having you identification, but with the new laws, a passport is required even for travel to Canada.

Travel is still possible and as long as you have your passport before you leave, you should not have any trouble on your next vacation. Here is the information you may be searching for on the how, when and where of getting your passport.

How do I get my passport?

Decide first if you need a passport book or a passport card. A passport card is used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico the Caribbean and Bermuda at land crossings only, no air travel and no sea ports. The Passport book is good for international travel by air, sea and land. The process is not to difficult as long as you go in prepared. You will need proof of citizenship i.e. a birth certificate, proof of who you are, an id card or your drivers license, a filled out DS 11 form, 2 identical photos and money to pay for your passport.

DS-11 form - You can get this online at the following link: http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_842.html
If you prefer, you can get this form at your local post office.

Photo - You can have your photo taken at many places that offer picture services such as Walmart or kinkos.

Cost - When you submit your form in person the cost is as follows:
16 or older passport book - $100.00
Under 16 passport book - $85.00
Passport Card under 16 - $45.00
16 or older passport card - $35.00

When do I need to get my passport?

According to the U.S. Department of State Travel processing times vary but it varies with regular service or no expedited service between 4-6 weeks. Expedited service will get your passport to you in 2-3 weeks on average.

Where do I get my passport?

If you have had a passport or currently have a passport, you may be able to apply by mail and would fill out a passport renewal form instead of the previously state form. If you have never had a passport before you may need to apply in person at an acceptance facility or a Passport agency. An acceptance facility is usually a county clerks office or a post office in your area. There are not many passport agencies in the US but some of the locations are: Detroit, New York, Boston, San Francisco, Honolulu and a few others throughout the US. Some locations even issue on sight passport cards such as Detroit.

I hope this helps you travel more easily. Good luck in your journeys and remember to bring your passport!