If you're finally going on the trip you've been dreaming about and will be leaving the United States, you will need a passport. Gone are the days when you could drive to Canada or Mexico without one. Don't wait until the last minute to get your travel documentation. What you need to know is, you can't travel far without one.
Plan ahead
Allow at least four to six weeks for processing, depending on the time of year. If you can't wait that long, you can ask for a quicker turnaround, but you will have to pay higher fees.
Use the Internet
The United States Department of State website contains the rules and regulations for applying for a passport and has documents you need to fill out. Print a copy of Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport to get started. Pay close attention to which documented evidences you must present to prove that you are an American citizen. (Copies of Form DS-11 can also be obtained at your local post office.)
In addition to the original copies of your identification documents, you must also present a photocopy (front and back) of all your documents. The State Department's website also gives specific details about how your documents should be copied.
Visit a post office
Now that you have your application completed per the instructions on Form DS-11 and have all of your identifications ready including specified copies, you are ready to present your information in person to a post office that processes passport applications. You can determine the closest one in your area by using the Postal Service website for contact information. Some post offices allow appointments to be made for passport applications, others just post times when a postal employee is available on a "first come" basis.
Passport cost
For an adult passport book, expect to pay $110 for the application fee and a $25 execution fee. There will be an additional charge if you have the post office take your photo and if you want expedited service. The passport office recommends that you pay for documented delivery service to receive your passport at home. You don't want to risk regular mail for this very important document.
Filing for a passport -- what you need to know isn't very difficult. If you can read directions and follow them to the letter, you won't have any problems. Once you have your passport in hand, the world is waiting for you.
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