Getting a U.S passport may feel like an uphill task but what most people do not realize is that it is an easy process. This is a document that is vital for any American planning to venture beyond the country's borders. An important factor to remember when applying for a passport is to plan as obtaining a visa can take weeks.

Requirements To Get A Passport

The requirements include:

• A Passport application form (DS-11) This form can be picked up from the nearest Passport Agency. Optionally, the applicant can call (877) 4US-APPT between 8am and 10pm to establish the nearest agency. Alternatively, the form can be printed online, and the applicant should expect to fill in details including personal information, contact information, and social security number.
• Proof of Citizenship The applicant will also need to prove citizenship in the U.S. these documents will typically include a certificate of citizenship, naturalization or birth, or even an expired passport. This means that only citizens of the country may apply for a U.S. passport.
• Personal Appearance If the applicant is a first-timer, he/she will need to apply for the passport personally. This, therefore, means that they will have to visit the nearest passport agency with the relevant documents and the applicable processing fee, which may vary from time to time. Once the applicant submits the passport application, they should expect their passport at their address within six weeks post-application.
• Passport Photographs To successfully apply for a passport, the applicant will need to produce two passport photos taken in not more than six months back. These photos may be acquired from the applicant's local convenience/pharmacy store or may be taken afresh. Application centers in some states offer photo services, but the applicant should check to confirm. The photos should have precise measurements, 2 by 2 inches, taken against a neutral background and in full colors.

Passport Prices

If an applicant wants to know how much a passport cost in the past and today, it is important that they consider the type of passport service they want. Payment options include checks (Both cashier's and personal), credit card or cash and may vary with locations. Some charges are optional, depending on how quickly the applicant expects the passport. The expedited service is the fastest way to get a passport and the waiting period, in this case, will only last 2-3 weeks or as little as 2-8 days.

• For an adult: The application fee for both a passport book and passport card is $110. If the applicant takes both at the same time, the execution fee is $25. Taken separately, the execution fee for both still stands at $25.
• For a child: Passport books go for $80, and passport cards go for $15. The execution fees remain the same as that of the adults

When to Renew Passport

Typically, American citizens renew their passports before their passports expire. The expiration date is, therefore, of the essence. Also, most countries have a six-month policy whereby the passport should remain valid for at least six months after travel. Without such validity, the passport holder may not be allowed to board the plane.

To replace a passport, an American citizen fills the DS-82 application form. The applicant will also need passport photos like those for a new passport, passport fees, and his/her most recent passport.

Steps to Get a Passport

The steps to get a passport are easy and as outlined below:

• Place an order for a passport
• Fill the DS-11 online or by hand.
• Pay the passport fees
• Waiting period

Renew Passport at Post Office

To successfully renew a passport at a post office, the applicant has to locate post offices that offer passport services from the Department of State website. Next, take passport photos. Some post offices will provide the services. The applicant will then schedule an appointment by calling the nearest USPS location as some do not accept walk-in customers. Next, the applicant will fill the form DS-82. The submission will then include all the necessary forms and documents and payment of application fee. In the next six weeks, the passport will arrive by mail.

Top 5 Routes for "Requirements To Get A Passport"

1. USA Today This website provides valuable information regarding how to apply successfully for a passport in the United States. The information is additionally presented in infographics, making it a valuable tool for visual applicants.
2. Travel.state.gov This website is specially tailored for the adult applicant. The website is very informational during the application process.
3. USA.gov This website tells an applicant how to apply, renew and expedite a passport. The site also details issues surrounding the application of passports for children.
4. DHS.gov This is the official website of the Department of Homeland Security. It provides detailed information regarding American passport application and provides bonus tips for travel.
5. USPS The USPS helps accept first time passport applications at many locations throughout the country. They also offer services required like photos or assistance with applications. This article helps take a person step by step through the process and show exactly what is required at every step.