How to get a Passport- U.S. Passport Application and Renewal

In this post we will answer all your U.S. Passport questions: How to get a passport, passport processing times (how long it takes to get your passport,) how much a new passport costs, where to get a passport, required documents to get a passport, and details on passport renewal.

Lead times for a U.S. passport can be unpredictable, don’t let procrastination ruin your dream vacation. You can do this! Get your passport and start traveling the world. We will do our best to answer your questions in this article.

 

How to get a passport

Start your passport application at usa.gov on the “apply for a new adult passport” page.

How long does it take to get a passport?

Processing times for passports vary widely depending on a variety of factors. How long it will take for you to receive your passport is typically in the range of 4-12 weeks.  You do have the option to complete a rush request for an additional fee. If you are planning a trip abroad, give yourself plenty of time to receive your passport. Plan ahead to avoid stress before your next trip.

A record number of people are applying for passports this year.  The passport offices are overwhelmed with applications. As with many government services, lead times are directional and often do not account for extreme application fluctuations.

 

 

Where to get a passport?

To apply for a U.S. passport you will need to take your filled-out forms and proof of identification documents to an official passport acceptance facility.

Here is a locator to find an approved location. You can not complete the process online.

 

 

How much does a U.S. Passport cost?

As of July 2023, there are two separate fees for a new passport applicant. $130 to the U.S. government and $30 to the passport processing facility. Payments must be written as separate checks or money orders.

There are additional fees for expediting, supplemental background checks, larger passport books, and various other services. Be sure to check the latest rate table before your trip to the acceptance facility.

The latest fee chart can be found here.

 

 

What documents do I need to get a passport?

The short answer is a completed form DS-11, Passport Photo, Proof of Citizenship and Acceptable Photo I.D.  The details of each can be complicated and you will want to confirm you have the correct documents.  Save yourself a wasted trip to the processing facility and double-check you have the right documentation. 

You will need two copies of your passport photo.  Many businesses offer passport photo services. UPS Store, Walgreens, and CVS are all solid options.

How to renew your adult passport

There are a few things that will exclude you from the renewal process. For example, if your last passport was issued before your 16th birthday or if your last passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

If you meet the criteria for passport renewal, complete form DS-82 online (or print it out,) take a new passport photo, and pay the renewal fee.  

To complete the process, take these documents and your current passport to a passport acceptance facility.

 

 

Important: You are required to send your existing passport along with your renewal documents.  If you need your existing passport, plan accordingly when completing your renewal.

Current processing times are listed here.

Replacing a lost or stolen Passport if you are in the U.S.

Complete form DS-64 online. If you are traveling in less than nine weeks, you may be able to get an in-person appointment at a passport acceptance facility.

 

Your new passport is valid for 10 years if it was issued when you were at least 16 and valid for 5 years if you received your passport when you were 15 or under.

Many countries that require a passport have a minimum of six months remaining before expiration. So, although your passport is good for 5-10 years, it may not be valid as you approach expiration.

You can find details on country-specific information here.

Let your adventure begin!

You got this.

ThePassporter