Tips, Travel Tips, Uncategorized
Step by Step Guide to Getting Your Passport
So you know you want to travel out of the country, but don’t have a passport. Stress not, we’ll take you step by step to obtain your passport. We have come up with things you will need and steps on how to get there. What you need: Proof of Citizenship (Birth Certificate) Completed Passport Application 2 Passport Photos Acceptable Photo ID (valid driver’s license, government id, or military id) Money for fees ($110 if you are over 16, $85 if you are under 16)
Step 1:
Birth Certificate. If you were born in the US, you’ll need to find that birth certificate. It may still be at your parents’ house (I know mine was). Make sure you have an original copy, certified by the city, state or county where you were born. If you don’t have a copy, you’ll need to contact the city, state, or county government office where you were born to get a new, certified copy. Please note, that if you’re from a small city, it may take longer, so be patient.Step 2:
Get your passport photo taken. I would recommend going somewhere that has an official passport photo service. I found it easiest to go to my local Walgreens, Rite Aid or CVS, and they will get you right together. Side note, I have yet to see a cute passport photo. The lighting isn’t great, but at least it will pass the Passport Photo Requirements. I went to the Rite Aid, and was in and out in 5 minutes, and it only cost me 5 bucks!Step 3:
Gather your funds. Now getting you passport is not cheap, so that’s why it’s important to gather your coins before you start the process of booking your flight. There is a $110 fee for your first passport. For standard processing there are no additional fees (6-8 weeks). You don’t need a passport card. Passport cost. If you need your passport in the next 2-3 weeks you’ll have to pay a $60 fee that will expedite the process.Step 4:
Fill out the application. You’re almost done!! You will have to fill out the application yourself. Once you print it off, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE wait to sign and date it once you apply in person.Step 5:
Handing in your application, money, photos and birth certificate. Aaaat Laaast! *in my Etta James voice* Take your completed application, payment, 2 copies of your passport photo, acceptable photo ID and birth certificate to your Local Passport Acceptance Facility. Most places require you to make an appointment.When you go to the passport facility, be prepared for them to keep your birth certificate, etc along with your application. You will be without your birth certificate up to 8 weeks. Not to worry, they will mail it back along with your passport. Once you’re done, all you have to do is wait… At this point you have no choice but to wait. However once you get that big envelop in the mail, you are free to travel the world!!
