10 steps to get a US passport

For this summer’s trip, we have compiled a list of US passport criteria, as well as information on processing timeframes and prices.

Are you planning to spend the summer traveling abroad? You are not alone yourself. According to the US Travel Association, Americans took 1.7 billion leisure trips in 2015, and overseas travel expenditure directly supported 1.1 million employment and $28.4 billion in compensation.

If you are a US citizen going overseas, you will need a valid passport as identification. These are the procedures you must take to get a US passport:

Check that all of your papers, such as evidence of citizenship (an old passport or a birth certificate) and proof of identity (a driver’s license or a state identification, are in order.
The second step in applying for a passport is to print and complete Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. Then, present your completed form to a Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility.
Get a passport photo; if the photo does not meet these conditions, the procedure may be delayed.
At a passport agency, you may apply for any service (first-time application, renewal, passport card, etc.).
Where to apply: Depending on your location, you may either go to a post office branch or mail your application. Also, if you live overseas, be sure you understand the procedure for applying outside of the United States.
Choose a passport processing option: standard processing may take up to 6 weeks. If you need to travel sooner than four weeks, you may expedite your processing. You must go to your local regional passport office with all of your documentation and a travel schedule indicating that you will be leaving the country within two weeks for emergency travel.
Pay your fees: the related charges vary depending on whether you are applying for the first time or renewing, so use this advice and keep in mind that all payments are non-refundable.
Are you changing your name, or have you misplaced your previous passport? If you changed your name since your last passport, if it has been more than 15 years since your last passport was issued, or if your prior passport was stolen, lost, or destroyed, you must apply in person.
If you are applying for a child’s passport, keep in mind that you will need to provide documentation of your connection. (such as a custody order or birth certificate with appropriate signatures). Have your own acceptable ID (along with photocopies) and offer in-person approval from both parents. (or one parent, plus written, notarized consent from the second or proof of sole custody).
Renew your passport around nine months before it expires.