Sep 14 2010
The US Passport Application Process – Mandatory Documents And Processing Times
When traveling outside the United States, it helps to have a passport. Even if you dont plan to travel anytime soon, having a passport can make your life much easier. In order to get your passport, you first have to fill out a US passport application forms. There are two options, one for those applying for the first time and one for those just renewing.
Hard copy applications can be obtained at your local library and most post offices. Some post offices also have set hours when they process applications including taking the required two pictures for placement in your passport. To find out if a post office near you offers these services, call ahead or research the internet. All you need to do is type in your zip code and a list of available locations and service options will appear on your screen.
You can also get an application, print it and fill it out without leaving your home. Just go to your computer, type in United States Passport on your computers internet search engine and several sites, government and non-government, will pop up. Those that are not affiliated with the U. S. Government may ask you for a fee to download a guidebook and application. It is up to you whether you feel you need additional guidance to apply. However, basic instructions and applications are free and can be downloaded easily via postal service and state department sponsored websites.
You must apply in person if you have never applied before or are under 16 years of age. Along with bringing the filled out application, you will need pictures and identification including a birth certificate. Review the instructions to find out the approved forms of identification to bring with you. If you are renewing a passport and it has not already expired or was issued within the last 15 years, you simply need to send in the application, your fee and the original passport.
Are you thinking about traveling but not sure when? You should apply sooner rather than later. The routine application process is less costly and less stressful. After you submit your application, you should expect to receive your U.S. passports in four to six weeks. It may take longer during traditionally busy travel periods like summer. If you have to travel in less than four weeks, ask that your application to be expedited. If you are traveling under 14 days, you must schedule an appointment at a nearby passport agency. These are located in most major cities or regions of the country.
There is a standard fee to process your application and for the passport booklet, or card. The fee varies depending on whether it is your first time applying or if you are renewing. Having the freedom to travel whenever you want and to almost anywhere in the world you would like is well worth the small investment. Also, once you receive your passport, it is good for 10 years if you are over the age of 16. If younger, it is valid for five years.
Of course expedited or direct agency processing will cost you more than the routine method so plan ahead or make sure you really have to travel on your desired dates. When you travel for work, whether it be a private company or government, you should be able to ask for reimbursement. Often your agency or company will have a person on staff with the expertise or duty to help you.
One bonus of having a passport is using it as verification of citizenship for employment. When you are hired for just about any job today, you are asked to provide two forms of identification. This requirement is reduced to one if you are using an official passport. This form of I.D. tends to trump just about any other form. This is because it is issued by the federal government and you have already produced other forms of identification for the United States passport application, such as your original birth certificate, to obtain one.
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