You need a US passport if you want to travel to a foreign country.
It's also a valuable piece of personal identification. You'll learn how
to get a US passport in the five simple steps described below. This
process is good for any adult who is applying for a new passport, but
not for getting one renewed.
Forms
The definition for a "new" passport is actually a fairly broad
category. Obviously, if you've never had one and this is your first
application, this procedure applies to you. However, you are also
considered to be getting a new passport if yours has been stolen,
damaged or lost. "New" also applies to you if your old one was issued
more than 15 years ago or if you've changed your name since your current
passport was issued, but you can't legally document your name change.
Documents
You will have to fill out federal from DS-11, which you can download
off a variety of government websites. You'll find the instructions for
filling it out directly on the form. This is an application, so if you
want yours to be accepted, it's probably best to fill out this form and
fully and accurately as possible. Of course, you also want to be
completely truthful on it as well. There's a different form for renewing
U.S. online passport.
Identity
In addition to the DS-11 form, you'll also have to provide proof of
your identity. You can't bootstrap this process to get your sole
identification documentation. It will only be issued if you can already
proved you are who you say you are. The best option is to include a copy
of a piece of primary proof of identity. This sort of proof could be
your driver's license, naturalization certificate, current military ID
or other current government issued ID.
Certificates Of Citizenship
The next critical piece of documentation you'll need to submit is
proof of your US citizenship. If you're a naturalized citizen, your
naturalization certificate can serve as both proof of identity and
citizenship. If you're a naturally born US citizen, a certified, long
form birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or citizenship
certificate will prove your citizenship.
Fees
Lastly, you'll need to include a photo and your application fees. The
photo must be color and two by two inches in size. It must have been
taken within the last six months and must show your full face as a close
up. The specific amount you'll have to pay as your application fee will
vary based on your specific situation. You can consult the online fee
schedule to find out what you'll have to pay.
Sending Application
Once you have all this documentation, forms, and other requirements
put together, it's time to submit them for approval. This packet must be
submitted at an authorized US passport office. There are literally
thousands all over the country, usually in post offices, public
libraries, courthouses or other public buildings. You can find the
office nearest you by looking online. However, check with that office
specifically before arriving as some require that you schedule an
appointment in order to accept your application.
