How to Get a Passport

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Americans of all ages looking to travel abroad, including to neighboring countries Canada and Mexico, will need to acquire a United States passport. Possession of this document allows Americans to travel throughout the world, dependent on those country's entry requirements.

Locations

If you are requesting your first passport, are under 16, last possessed a passport more than 15 years ago or whose most recent passport is lost, stolen or damaged, you will need to apply for a passport in person at an Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency. You may search for the location closest to you at through the State Department or the passport office.

Form

All appropriate forms should be filled out, including the DS-11 form that is required for non-renewals and which may be found at http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_842.html.

If applying from outside the U.S., you will need to contact your local Embassy or Consulate for instructions on completing the forms that are intended for those applying from within the U.S.

Documentation

Proof of U.S. citizenship and identity is required. Acceptable documentation includes a previous passport, certified birth certificate and a valid driver's license. A full list of acceptable documentation may be found at the U.S. passport office and also here.

Photo

A completed application includes your photo. It must be taken in color and be 2 x 2 inches in size with your head taking up between 1 and 1-3/8 inches. To ensure your current appearance is portrayed, the photo should have been taken within the past six months. It is recommended, but not required, that the photo be taken at places that advertise the service, such as participating U.S. Post Offices. A full list of photo requirements may be found here

Fees

Passport fees for first-time adult applicants are $35 for a passport card, $135 for a passport book and $165 for a card and a book. The card is only valid for land and sea travel into the United States from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, so if you will be flying from any destination or traveling by any form of transportation from other countries, requesting a passport book is recommended.

Proof of U.S. citizenship and identity is required