Q&A for How to Get a U.S. Passport

Apply for a passport at least 10 weeks before you plan on traveling internationally (or even sooner!). There are ways that you can expedite your U.S. passport, but those rules change from time to time—check the Department of State website to see what the current policy is.

No, they can't—getting a U.S. passport requires U.S. citizenship. You can't get a U.S. passport on a green card, but you can get U.S. citizenship if you're a green card holder with the right condition.

The passport fees for a U.S. passport change over time and the actual cost depends on whether the passport is for a child or an adult, first time or renewal, or to have an amendment made. As such, it’s best to check the U.S. passports fees page from the U.S. Department of State/Bureau of Consumer Affairs when you're due to apply. This can be found at: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/fees.html.

A first-time passport application can take between 4 to 8 weeks to be processed. These times are sometimes even longer, such as if there are slowdowns due to such things as a large number of applications. It is possible to get a passport expedited for additional fees and proof of travel documents, which can result in receipt of the passport anywhere from 24 hours to 2 weeks.

It is easier to apply for a passport for a child under 16 when both parents or guardians are present because they both need to agree to its issuance. If both parents are not able to appear in person, then you’ll need to provide suitable form of evidence with the application (such as a court order, a certified document or specific forms––refer to travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/under-16.html for details on what is sufficient evidence).

Yes, many post offices in the United States can accept first-time passport applications on behalf of the United States Department of State. In some post offices, you may also be able to get your passport photo taken (call ahead first to find out if this is possible at your local one). Check online for the availability of specific passport services, including whether you need to book or can walk in and apply, at your local post office.

No. They will return the original document to you, and they will keep the photocopy of it.

No. You do not need to have travel plans to get a passport. It is a good idea to get your passport now so that you have it when you make your plans.

For adults, passports will last for 10 years. For children under 16, they will last for 5 years.

"Yes."

The pass card is the cheaper alternative to a passport if you are only driving to foreign countries (see a list for countries that will accept pass cards). However, you will need a passport if you plan to fly to any other country, including one that you might normally drive to (like Mexico or Canada).

That way you have the ability to travel abroad (i.e. England and Scotland) but also so you can travel within the Americas (i.e. Canada in NA and Mexico in SA).

Your box for your permanent address on your DS-11 should be your physical address. Your mailing address can be a P.O. box.

None. Your last name is what will be referenced. As long as it matches what is on your application, you will be fine.

For children under 18, they expire after 5 years. For adults, they expire after 10 years.

You cannot use an expired passport to travel, but you can use it as proof of identity when applying for a new passport.

Yes! You will need to pay an additional $60 fee. You can do it by mail if you are renewing or in person if this is your first passport.

As long as you have your social security number, you should be OK. You do not need the card itself during the process.

You will need to apply in person. On form DS-11, where it asks if you have had a previous passport, answer yes, and mark it lost or stolen.

It can take anywhere between three to six months. Or, you can go to one of those places where they do it super fast for an increased fee.

If you are in the US, order a new one. If you are abroad, contact your closest US embassy or consulate.

As long as you're not behind on your child support, you should be fine.

If you have a passport card, you can still go to Mexico by land or sea (but not by air). If you don't, you will need to provide another form of photo ID when you go to get your passport, such as a military ID, government employee ID, or an old passport.

Generally, it takes 6-8 weeks. However, if there is a backlog at the processing offices, it can take longer.

As long as the passport is still in your possession, you should renew by mail. Any passport under 15 years old should be renewed by mail.

If you have your mail forwarded from your old address, it may be sent to you. Talk to your local post office about forwarding an address.

Bring a copy of any name change documents, such as a marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order. Other than that, just provide your proof of citizenship, photo ID, and passport photo.

Use the passport acceptance facility locator tool. It will show you all of the closest places you can get a passport from.

You have to use the original, but they'll mail it back to you.

Yes you do. You must provide a social security number, see FAST Act or Congress.gov to learn more about this.