How to Get a US Passport
If you’re interested in getting a passport to travel to the United States, you might be wondering how to get it. This article will give you all the information you need to get a passport. You’ll learn what documents you need to get, what fees you have to pay, and where to apply. You’ll be glad you did once you know how to get a US passport! To get started, check out these tips.
Documents required
If you are planning to apply for a US passport, you will need to have a few documents handy. First, you’ll need a copy of one of your government-issued identification documents, such as a Social Security card. These documents should be printed on white, 8.5-by-11-inch paper, and they should be in black and white. Another document you’ll need to have on hand is proof of citizenship.
For proof of citizenship, you’ll need a certified copy of your birth certificate. This certificate must be from the country where you were born. It should bear an embossed, raised seal, or multicolored stamp. Moreover, the document must list both of your parents. Photocopies and hospital certificates aren’t accepted. For additional proof of citizenship, you should present a valid state or federal picture ID with your full name, date of birth, and signature.
If you’re planning to travel abroad, it’s best to apply for your US passport as early as possible. There are two primary application periods for passports: during the off-season, when passport volumes decrease, and during peak passport season, when volume increases significantly. You should also remember that you’ll need to present your travel documents when flying. If you are in the military, your identification card is sufficient.
Fees
The fees for getting a US passport can vary from one agency to another. Some require payment in cash or check, while others will accept prepaid cards, credit cards or cash. In most cases, you will be expected to appear in person at the acceptance facility to complete your application. The amount of these fees varies depending on the agency, so make sure you know what you will be spending before you start. There are several different ways to pay for your passport, so consider these tips to get a good deal.
The acceptance fee is payable to the County of San Diego, but it can also be paid by money order. In San Diego, money orders are available through banks, U.S. post offices and even many grocery stores. If more than one person is applying for the passport, each applicant must pay separate application and execution fees. To figure out the total cost, use the Department of State’s fee calculator. You can calculate the total cost of a US passport before you apply.
The fees for getting a US passport have increased again. If you plan on renewing your passport, you’ll pay $130 for a passport book. If you’re renewing your passport, you’ll be charged an additional $35. You can check the fee calculator online and print out a PDF chart of the new fees. And don’t forget to check the methods of payment. You can also pay with a credit card, cash or check – any form of payment will do.
Where to apply
When you are considering traveling to another country or are renewing your current passport, you must decide where to apply for a US passport. Adults must pay a one-time $110 application fee and an additional $35 execution fee. Passport fees vary by category and also vary by age group, including those under 16. See the State Department for more information on fees and other requirements. If you are in the US, you may submit the DS-11 application form at a passport acceptance facility (USPS) or other public location.
There are many benefits to obtaining a passport. First, it is a practical proof of U.S. citizenship. It is much more useful than a Certificate of Citizenship. Passports give you the right to travel to more than 185 countries, often without a visa. You may also receive travel assistance from the U.S. embassy if needed. A US passport is necessary for travel and should be valid for at least 10 years.
You can expedite the process by applying through a third-party expeditor company. These services ensure you submit all the necessary documents and have a representative visit the passport agency for you. Although these services can speed up the process, they can cost you a lot of money. When applying for a US passport, keep in mind that the Department of State has extremely limited resources, and processing can take weeks. You should plan your trip accordingly if you want to avoid having your passport packet processed in the last minute.
