What Documents Do I Need For A Passport

What Documents Do I Need For A Passport

Traveling to most countries outside the U.S. requires a passport. If you are wondering what documents you need to apply for a passport, here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.

Eligibility and Application Process

When it comes to getting a passport, there are certain eligibility criteria that you need to meet. As of 2024, to be eligible for a U.S. passport, you must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or a qualifying U.S. non-citizen national. If you are unable to renew your passport or if this is your first time applying, you will need to apply for a new passport in person at a passport acceptance facility.

One of the essential items you need to apply for a passport is Form DS-11. You can fill out this form online, download and fill it out manually, or pick it up from your local passport acceptance facility. Remember not to sign the form until you are instructed to do so by the acceptance official during your appointment.

Required Documents

When applying for a passport, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Original proof of citizenship, such as a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a valid U.S. passport.
• An acceptable photo ID, which can be a valid or expired U.S. passport, driver’s license, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, government employee ID, U.S. military ID, or a current foreign passport.
• A photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID.
• A passport photo that meets the specified requirements.
• The applicable passport fee.

Passport Application Process

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed with the passport application process. You will need to visit a passport acceptance facility in person to submit your application. These facilities can be found in locations such as libraries or post offices. Some facilities may require appointments, so it’s essential to check their operating hours and procedures beforehand.

Passport Fees and Payment

When applying for a passport, you will be required to pay two separate fees – an application fee to the U.S. Department of State and an execution (acceptance) fee to the facility where you submit your application. The fees vary depending on the type of passport you are applying for and whether you opt for expedited processing or faster delivery options.

For adult applicants aged 16 and older, the fees for different types of passports are as follows:

• Passport Book: $130 application fee + $35 execution fee
• Passport Card: $30 application fee + $35 execution fee
• Passport Book & Card: $160 application fee + $35 execution fee

Additional fees may apply if you choose expedited processing or faster delivery services for your passport.

Passport Processing and Delivery

After submitting your passport application, you can expect to receive multiple mailings depending on the type of document(s) you requested. Passport books and cards are typically sent in separate mailings, and you may receive your citizenship documents in a separate mailing as well. If you have been waiting for more than 8 weeks for your citizenship documents, you can contact the passport agency for assistance.

For faster processing and delivery, you have the option to pay extra for expedited services or 1-2 day delivery of your passport. These services come at an additional cost, but they can expedite the passport issuance and delivery process.

Conclusion

Obtaining a passport involves several steps, from gathering the required documents to submitting your application and paying the necessary fees. By following the guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of State and ensuring that you have all the essential documents in order, you can successfully apply for a passport and prepare for your international travels with ease.