If You Plan to Apply for One for Yourself or Your Family, Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Who Is Eligible? 👨👩👧👦
Adults (16 years or older): All U.S. citizens applying for their first passport or renewing an expired one.
Children under 16: Minors applying for their first passport.
Fees and Where to Receive the Passport 💵📬
Adults:
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10-Year Passport: $130 USD
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5-Year Passport (renewal): $110 USD
Minors:
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5-Year Passport: $100 USD
Payment Methods: Payments are made at passport acceptance facilities. Cash, check, or credit card are typically accepted.
Here’s a Table with the Main Requirements to Get a Passport:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Form DS-11 | Required for all applicants; available online or at the passport office. |
| Proof of Citizenship | Original document like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. |
| Photo Identification | For adults, a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license). |
| Passport Photo | A recent photo that meets official size and background specifications. |
| Parental Consent (for minors) | Both parents or legal guardians must give consent for a child’s passport. |
Application Process 📝📅
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Complete Form DS-11: Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
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Apply in Person: Submit the application at a passport acceptance office.
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Submit Documents: Provide all required documents (proof of citizenship, ID, photo).
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Pay Fees: Make the appropriate payment at the same office.
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Wait for Processing: Passport processing takes between 8 to 11 weeks, depending on the service chosen.
Additional Information 💡
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Passport Renewal: If your passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago, you can renew it by mail without an appointment.
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Passport Card: For frequent land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you can apply for a passport card. It’s cheaper but only valid for land and sea travel.
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Urgent Requests: If you need your passport urgently, you can request expedited service for an additional fee.
Answers to Other Common Questions ❓🔍
🔹 Can I apply for my child’s passport if one parent is not present?
Yes, but a signed authorization from the absent parent is required.
🔹 What happens if I lose my passport?
You must file Form DS-64 to report the loss and request a replacement.
With this guide, the process of obtaining a passport for you and your family will be much easier to understand. Always double-check the requirements and processing times to avoid surprises. Get ready for your next international adventure! 🌍✈️
