How to Apply for a Passport

How to Apply for a Passport Needed for International Travel

A passport is an official travel document issued by a government that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder. Generally, anyone wishing to travel internationally needs a passport to enter another country.

In most cases, a passport is required for:

International travel by air, sea, or land
Entry into foreign countries
Identification purposes

Do You Need a Visa, Too?

Some countries may also require a visa in addition to a passport for entry. It’s important to check the specific entry requirements of the country you plan to visit before you travel.

Additionally, some countries may have specific entry requirements for minors, such as requiring a parental consent letter or additional documentation. It’s important to research and understand the entry requirements for all members of your travel group before embarking on an international trip.

A reputable travel agent or your local AAA office can help you navigate the process.

Getting Started: Documents Needed to Apply for a Passport

Gather required documents: You will need proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport. You will also need a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
Fill out the application: You can complete it online or download a paper form and fill it out by hand.
Get a passport photo taken: You will need a recent passport photo that meets the government’s size, composition, and quality requirements.
Pay the fee: The cost of a passport varies depending on whether you’re getting a new one or renewing an old one, how quickly you need it, and other factors.
Submit the application: You can submit the application by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or library.
Wait for processing: It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your passport, but you can pay for expedited processing if needed sooner.
Check your passport: Once you receive your passport, ensure all the information is correct and the photo is clear and recognizable.

You can get a passport from any passport acceptance facility, which can include:

1. United States Postal Service (USPS) locations

2. Clerk of Court offices

3. Some public libraries

4. Regional Passport Agencies (for urgent or emergency travel only)

To find the nearest passport acceptance facility, you can use the U.S. Department of State’s passport acceptance facility search page on their website. Additionally, some larger post offices and courthouses may have passport processing services available, which can expedite the application process.

The requirements for a passport photo are:

Size: 2×2 inches (5×5 cm)
Color: Must be in color, not black and white or sepia
Head size: The height of your head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm) from the top of your head to the bottom of your chin.
Background: The background must be plain white or off-white.
Expression: You must have a neutral expression, a closed mouth, and natural-looking eyes.
Clothing: You should wear typical street attire, with no uniforms or costumes. However, you may wear religious attire if it is worn daily.
Glasses: If you wear glasses, they must not obstruct your eyes, and there should be no glare on the lenses.
Headgear: Headwear is only allowed if worn daily for religious reasons. Additionally, there should be no shadows on your face from the headgear.
Photo quality: The photo should be high quality, with good resolution and contrast, and printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper.

It is important to note that passport photo requirements can vary by country, so you must check the specific requirements for the country you are applying to.

It is recommended that you apply for a passport at least 3-6 months before your planned travel date. This allows enough time for your application to be processed and for you to receive your passport in time for your trip.

If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite the processing for an additional fee, but even with expedited processing, it can take up to 2-3 weeks to receive your passport.

If you have an emergency and need to travel within 72 hours, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency to get a passport quickly, but you must provide proof of your emergency travel plans.

It is recommended that you do not travel internationally with a passport that is about to expire or has less than six months of validity remaining, as some countries may deny entry or visa issuance based on the expiration date of your passport.

Each country has its own entry requirements, including passport validity, and it is important to check the entry requirements for the country you plan to visit before you travel. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your scheduled departure date.

If Your Passport is About to Expire

If your passport is about to expire or has less than six months of validity remaining, it is recommended that you renew your passport before you travel to avoid any issues at the border or during your travels.

The cost of getting a passport depends on several factors, including whether you are getting a new passport or renewing an old one, your age, and how quickly you need your passport.

Cost to Obtain a Passport

As of 1/22/2023, the fees for a U.S. passport are as follows:

New adult passport book (age 16 and older): $130
New child passport book (under age 16): $100
Passport renewal (by mail): $130
Expedited service (processing time 4-6 weeks): Additional $60
Overnight delivery (for expedited service only): Additional $19.53
Execution or acceptance fee (charged by the acceptance facility): $35

*Fees subject to change.

If you need your passport quickly, you can expedite the processing for an additional fee. The expedited service fee is $60 and will shorten the processing time to 2-3 weeks. If you require even faster service, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency, but expedited fees will be higher.

You Have Your Passport. Now What?

Once you have your passport in hand, the world is your oyster! It’s time to plan your first international trip. Interested in Riviera Maya, Mexico? Check out my blog posts about resorts, excursions, and more.

Now that you have your travel documents, why not check out this great resort in Costa Mujeres, Mexico?

Beware of the Cancun Airport Sharks and Transportation Recommendations

Before you travel to Cancun, watch this video so that you avoid “The Shark Tank.” Make sure your transportation to the resort is included or that you book it ahead of time. Companies that I or other travelers have recommended are in the description.