United States passport application

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Applying For A Passport? Read These Tips

Monday, February 28th, 2011

If you really want to know the secret about applying for a passport easily, then you can actually sum it up in one simple rule. And this rule is all about knowing what to do even before you take the first step to applying for a passport. The reason for this is that when you know exactly what to do, you don’t waste your time taking false steps and starting all over again. Aside from just helping you save time, this rule also keeps you from getting frustrated about applying for a US passport.

So to make sure you get things right even at the beginning, we recommend you read this article in full. That’s because we’ll show you here what you exactly need to do to get a US passport. And we’re not just talking about simply getting it, but getting it easily.

Because applying for a passport begins with filling up a form, it’s appropriate we begin our discussion with forms used in passport applications. You must realize there are different forms used for different types of passport-related applications. Let’s first talk about the most basic form, the DS-11.

Let’s begin with the DS-11. This is probably the most basic passport application form. This is the form that’s filled in by anyone who’s applying for a passport for the first time. Because of that, practically every passport holder is familiar with this form. Also, this form is the one filled in by anyone who needs to make a personal appearance when applying for a passport.

What if you’re not required to appear in person for your passport application? Then you have the option of sending your application by mail. To do this, you’ll fill in a different form, Form DS-82. This is the form that you’ll need if you want a convenient way of sending your passport application to the passport office.

Meanwhile, should you lose your Passport Application, or if ever it’s stolen from you, you need to report it to the passport authorities first. And you’ll do this by sending them the Form DS-64. This form is otherwise known as the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport.

Alternatively, you can apply for a replacement while reporting the loss of your passport. To do this, you will need to appear in person at the acceptance facility or passport agency and submit your Form DS-64 along with your DS-11. The DS-11 will serve as your application for a new passport.

Now that you’re familiar with some of the most basic forms used in Applying For A U.S. Passport, you’ll see that the process isn’t that complicated after all. All you need is the right knowledge to get you started. Because with this knowledge, you’ll no longer end up confused or clueless the next time you apply for a US passport. Best of all, you can download and fill in any of these forms online for an even more hassle-free Pass Port application. USA passport cards also need an application.

How to Apply For a Passport at the Post Office

Monday, May 10th, 2010

Want to apply for a passport at a post office? the first step is to discover if the nearest post office has been designated by the Department of State to accept passport applications. while there are more than 36,000 post offices in the United States, there are only 9,400 or so passport application acceptance facilities. Since some of these are public libraries and county clerk’s offices, only about 25% of the all post offices can accept application forms. Contact the post offices nearest to your residence until you locate one that has a passport agent. once you have done this, follow the follow step to apply for your travel document.

Complete Form DS-11

This form is used by first-time applicants, minors and adults whose most recent passport was issued to them when they were minors. the application can be used to apply for a passport book, passport card or both. It is important that you not sign the application. this must be done in the presence of an authorized agent.

Gather Supporting Documents

Applicants who submit Form DS-11, must also submit evidence of United States citizenship, proof of identity and a photocopy of the identification document. Most frequently submitted documents include a birth certificate and valid driver’s license although other options are available. Parents of minors must provide proof of relationship to their children.

Take a Passport Photo

Only one photo is now required. the size must be 2×2 inches. the picture must be in color with a white or off-white background. of course, it must be recent and have a full face view. Problems with passports photos are major causes of delays in the processing of applications.

Visit Post Office

Take the completed but unsigned application form, supporting documents and the photo to the nearest post office that accepts applications. Present them to the attending agent. the agent will review the form and documents as well as witness as you sign the application.

Pay the Passport Fees

There is an execution fee of $25 that is paid to the acceptance facility. the application fee for a passport book is $110 for an adult and $80 for a minor age 15 or under. the application fee for a passport card is $30 for an adult and $15 for a minor. Applicants can request expedited service for an additional $60.

Mail the Packet

Mail the sealed packet to the address on the application form. Applicants are encouraged to use a protective packing such as a Tyvek envelope and send the packet using a traceable delivery method. Those who want their new passport sent by overnight delivery should include another $12.72 in the payment.

Routine processing is taking 4-6 weeks and expedited service is taking 2-3 weeks at the time of writing. Processing times can change due to many different variables. It is important to verify these before mailing your application to make sure you receive your passport before your next scheduled trip abroad.