In order to travel outside your own country, you will need to know how to get a passport. Getting a passport is actually very easy and straightforward!
Getting a passport differs from country to country, so for the benefit of this article, we'll be looking at how to get a passport in America.
How to Get a Passport for the First Time
To get a passport for the first time, you must be an American citizen and over the age of 16. To apply for your passport, you must go to https://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html and follow steps 1-7. You need to apply for the passport in person, fill in the form provided (DS-11) and submit it in person at a consulate, passport office. You will also need proof of your US citizenship, your identification as well as a photocopy of it, pay the fee and provide a suitable passport photo.
How to Get a Passport: Identification
You will need to bring a form of identification with you, and you will also need to bring a photocopy of your identification and sometimes a second form of ID, so it's best to bring one just in case. Photocopy must be on plain white, 8 1/2 x 11" paper, showing the front and the back of your ID and must only be copied on one side of the paper.
If copies cannot be made on the same side of one page, you can present two separate pages; one displaying the front of the ID and the second displaying the back. Any person acting as your identification witness will also need to bring ID.
How to Get a Passport: Payment
An adult passport currently (2014) costs $140 as well as a separate $25 execution fee. This has to be paid when you bring in your application.
How to get a Passport: The Photo
It's usually the photo that gives most people trouble when they try to get a passport, as there are very strict requirements. You'll be fine if the photo is current, you're not wearing any headgear and it's taken face-on in front of a plain background. If you're worried, the full list of requirements can be found here: https://travel.state.gov/passport/pptphotoreq/pptphotoreq_5333.html. It takes 4-6 weeks to normally process your passport and this can still be subject to delays, so it's best to apply well in advance of your trip.
It's that simple! Happy travels!
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
