A passport can open up the world to you, allowing you to travel to
distant places and experience life in different cultures. Passports are
travel documents that are recognized internationally and identify the
nationality and identity of the individual. Over the last few years,
regulations have changed and you now need passports for travel to places
like Canada and Mexico, although in the past the United States didn't
require it.
In order to get a passport in the United States, you need to bring
two passport photographs of yourself, proof of your citizenship, and
valid photo identification to a passport acceptance facility. There are
more than 9,000 acceptance facilities in the United States and you're
likely to find one close to where you live. You may already know of a
place, like a post office, where you can go or you can look up
facilities on the official government website.
You'll need to supply a couple of passport photos with your
application. You'll find that many places will take these photos for you
for a small fee. As they need to be a particular size and in a special
format, it's best to find a place that offers them rather than trying to
do them yourself. Some mail stores, pharmacies, or photography centers
offer the passport photos and with a little searching, you should find a
place close to home that offers them.
If you are getting your passport for the first time, don't have your
old passport, were issued your passport more than 15 years ago, or under
several other conditions, you'll need to apply for your passport in
person at one of the facilities. You'll need to fill out an application,
which is available for download online or you can pick one up at the
same facility that you'll be apply at. However, make sure that you don't
sign the application until the passport agent tells you to do so.
The US government website on passports will help you determine what
forms of identification to bring with you. You'll need both proof of
your identity and a valid photo ID. For a photo ID, a valid driver's
license will do, although there are other accepted IDs as well. Check
out the website or ask at the acceptance facility to make sure that you
have the proper forms of identification.
Children can also obtain passports, although they will need to have a
parent or guardian with them at the acceptance facility. Minors always
need to appear in person. If you plan to travel with a child out of the
country, even if the child is an infant, you'll need to get a passport
for them.
If you already have a passport that was issued less than 15 years
ago, you may be able to renew your passport by mail. Under some
circumstances, you can send in your application for renewal rather than
having to appear at an acceptance facility.
Getting a passport doesn't have to be a huge hassle if you apply in
plenty of time for your trip out of the country. Passports serve as your
form of identification internationally and you'll need to have one if
you plan on heading out the United States for a vacation. Remember to
check on the forms of identification you'll need and take them along
with you to the acceptance facility.
