Registering A Passport: A Step-By-Step Guide For Travelers

If you're planning to travel outside the US, you'll need a passport to enter most countries. The application process for a passport book or card is the same, and you can choose which type you want when you fill out the application form (DS-11). You'll need to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, which could be a library or post office. Some facilities require appointments, so it's worth checking this in advance. Processing times vary throughout the year, and there may be additional fees for expedited services.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for a new adult passport, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• You are a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization.
• You are a qualifying U.S. non-citizen national.

If you are unable to renew your U.S. passport or if this is your first passport, you will need to apply for a new one. The application process for a new passport cannot be done online or by mail; you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility.

If you are applying for a child under 18, the eligibility criteria may differ. Contact the relevant authorities or visit the official website for more information on the specific requirements and procedures.

For those residing outside the U.S., it is advised to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to request a passport. They will be able to guide you through the eligibility requirements and application process for your specific circumstances.

Application form

To register for a passport for travel, you need to fill out an application form. This cannot be done online or by mail; you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. The application process for passport books and passport cards is the same, and you will choose which type of passport you want when filling out the application.

The application form for a US passport is Form DS-11. You can fill out Form DS-11 online and then print it, or you can download the form, fill it out by hand, and then print it. You can also find your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency and pick up Form DS-11 from there.

Do not sign Form DS-11 until you are at your appointment and the passport acceptance official tells you to do so. You will also need to provide personal documents, including original proof of citizenship, an acceptable photo ID, and a photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID.

If you are outside the US, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate to request a passport.

Supporting documents

To register for a passport, you will need to provide supporting documents to prove your eligibility. Here are the key supporting documents you will need:

• Proof of Citizenship: This is one of the most important supporting documents. You will need to provide original proof of your citizenship status, either through primary citizenship evidence or secondary evidence if primary evidence is not available. Examples of primary evidence include a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state; a certificate of citizenship; or a naturalization certificate. If you do not have access to these documents, you may provide secondary evidence, such as a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Birth.
• Photo Identification: An acceptable form of photo ID is required. This could be a driver's license, a state-issued ID card, or a military ID, among others. Ensure that the photo is recent and clearly recognisable.
• Photocopies of Documents: Make sure to bring photocopies of both your citizenship document and photo ID. These photocopies should be clear and legible.
• Application Form: You will need to fill out Form DS-11, which can be done online or by hand. This form must be printed and brought to your appointment. Do not sign the form until you are instructed to do so by the passport acceptance official during your appointment.

Remember that you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, and some facilities may require appointments or have limited hours, so plan accordingly.

In-person application

To apply for a new adult passport in person, you must be either a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or a qualifying U.S. non-citizen national. You will need to fill out Form DS-11, which you can complete online and print, or download and fill out by hand. You must not sign the form until you are at your appointment and instructed to do so by an official.

You will also need to gather the following documents:

• Original proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship)
• An acceptable photo ID (valid or expired U.S. passport, driver's license, certificate of naturalization, government employee ID, military ID, etc.)
• Photocopies of both your citizenship document and photo ID

You will then need to find your local passport acceptance facility, which could be a post office or library. Some facilities require appointments, so be sure to check with the facility beforehand.

At your appointment, a postal employee will witness your signature on the application form. You will also need to pay the application acceptance and processing fees. The acceptance fee is paid directly to the passport acceptance facility, while the processing fee is sent with your application package to the U.S. Department of State.

Processing times

The processing time for a passport application varies depending on the country and the type of service chosen. Here is some information on processing times for different countries and services:

United States

In the United States, the processing time for passport applications can vary depending on the type of service requested and the time of year. As of March 24, routine processing takes 10-13 weeks, while expedited processing, which costs an additional $60, takes 7-9 weeks. These processing times do not include mailing time, and it is recommended to consider the total time when booking travel. The US Department of State also mentions that processing times are subject to change due to seasonal demand.

The US Department of State provides an option for urgent travel, where applicants can request expedited service for an additional $60 fee. This service typically takes 2-3 weeks, including processing and mailing time. Additionally, applicants can choose to pay for faster delivery and return shipping by using Priority Mail Express for delivery to the passport agency and paying an extra $21.36 for 1-2 day delivery of their completed passport.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the standard processing time for passport applications is usually within 3 weeks. However, it may take longer than 3 weeks if additional information is required or if an interview is necessary. The processing time starts from when the application and documents are received. Applicants can also opt for faster services, such as the Online Premium or 1-week Fast Track services, if they need their passport urgently.

Frequently asked questions