How to Obtain a US Passport

Need to obtain a US passport? The first step is to check the criteria listed below to verify if new passport service is what you need. If it is, you will find a complete list of requirements and step-by-step instructions to assist you in the process of obtaining a new U.S. passport.

Who can obtain a US Passport?

You can obtain a us passport if any of the following apply:

• You are applying for your first U.S. passport or
• You are under age 16 or
• Your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16 or
• Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged or
• Your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago or
• Your name has changed since your U.S. passport was issued and you are unable to legally document your name change

Obtain a US passport in 24-48 hours.

Requirements to obtain a US passport:

The requirements listed below pertain to adult passports. There are special requirements for obtaining a passport for a minor.

• Completed, unsigned passport application Form DS-11
• Submit proof of citizenship.
• Provide proof of identity.
• Submit a photocopy of the identification document presented
• Provide one (1) passport photo.
• Make payment for new passport fees.

Download and print the New Passport Checklist [PDF doc, .5 MB]

How to obtain a US passport

You can get a new passport by submitting the documents listed above at the nearest passport application acceptance facility. Note, some facilities attend applicants by appointment only. Please contact the facility for details. You can choose between routine and expedited processing when applying at a passport office. Routine processing currently takes 4-6 weeks. It can take longer, especially during peak travel periods. Expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks. There is an additional fee for this service.

Can't wait two weeks or more to get your passport? Obtaining a United States passport in a hurry can be accomplished in one of the following ways. One, you can apply at a regional passport agency. There are currently 20 agencies located in major cities of the United States. While applicants are usually required to make an appointment, walk-ins who have urgent travel needs are welcome. The same documents listed above are required.

A second method of getting a passport quickly is to employ the assistance of a qualified passport expediting service. Through an expediter you can have your new passport delivered to you in 24-48 hours. Travel document expediting services can do this because they have a special relationship with the regional agencies that gives them priority status.

Another advantage of applying for a passport through a professional expediter is the fact that you can apply for both a U.S. passport and a travel visa at the same time. Since the State Department does not issue travel visas to foreign countries, you would be required to apply for a passport and wait for its delivery before submitting the application for the travel visa your require.

Click here to obtain a US passport in 24-48 hours.