subject: The Passport Application Process - Crucial Forms And Processing Times [print this page] Heading overseas or even to Canada or Mexico, you need to travel with a passport. This is a form of identification accepted in all foreign countries and can also be helpful as a way to verify your identity as a citizen here in the United States. The first step is to obtain a new passport application form and review the guidelines for either first-time requests or for renewing an expiring passport.
Finding the right application and following the necessary steps can easily be done by visiting your local library. Most but not all post offices also carry passport applications. Some will also have times when they take your photo and process the applications on-site. It is best to call or look on-line to see what options the post office nearest you has available.
If you are computer savvy, you can locate an application on-line. Search for U. S. Passport on your web search engine. Government sponsored sites allow you to download an application and instructions for free. There are also several non-government sites that will pop up. These will help you through the steps to obtain an application and passport but there will be an additional fee for downloading their guidelines with the application.
You must apply in person if you have never applied before or are under 16 years of age. Along with bringing the filled out application, you will need pictures and identification including a birth certificate. Review the instructions to find out the approved forms of identification to bring with you. If you are renewing a passport and it has not already expired or was issued within the last 15 years, you simply need to send in the application, your fee and the original passport.
Are you thinking about traveling but not sure when? You should apply sooner rather than later. The routine application process is less costly and less stressful. After you submit your application, you should expect to receive your American passports in four to six weeks. It may take longer during traditionally busy travel periods like summer. If you have to travel in less than four weeks, ask that your application to be expedited. If you are traveling under 14 days, you must schedule an appointment at a nearby passport agency. These are located in most major cities or regions of the country.
There is a standard fee to process your application and for the passport booklet, or card. The fee varies depending on whether it is your first time applying or if you are renewing. Having the freedom to travel whenever you want and to almost anywhere in the world you would like is well worth the small investment. Also, once you receive your passport, it is good for 10 years if you are over the age of 16. If younger, it is valid for five years.
When you have to travel quickly, expediting or fast-tracking your application will cost more. It is best not to wait till the last minute to apply. If your company requires you to go on a trip or conducts regular business outside the U. S., there may be an administrative person dedicated to getting your application processed. If a federal employee, your agency will likely have someone on staff to assist you. You may also notice that your passport cover may be a different color than the those of regular citizens. If you have to handle the process by yourself, ask for fee and picture cost reimbursement for approved work travel.
