Passports – Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I apply for a passport?
• Must I apply in person?
• How long will it take to get the passport?
• Where do I go to apply in person?
• What will I need to take with me?
• Are there special travel requirements for minors?
• How can I renew by mail?
• What if I'm in a hurry?
• Where can I get more information?

Q: When should I apply for a passport?

A: Months before your departure. It's not a bad idea to apply six months in advance. Some countries don't like freshly issued passports. And it's not a good idea to have a passport that expires soon after your trip. It should be good for about six months after your return.

Q: Must I apply in person?

A: Yes if:

• You are a first time applicant.
• Your passport was lost, stolen or damaged.
• If your old passport was issued more than 15 years ago or before you were 16 years old.
• Your name has changed.
• You are a minor.

Q: How long will it take to get the passport?

A: About six weeks, but it's not a good idea to cut it that short. If you can we recommend that you allow six months.

Q: Where do I go to apply in person?

A: In most cases your county courthouse. You can look for other sites near your home at the State Department website.

Q: What will I need to take with me?

A: Bring the following with you:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship, including a certified copy of your birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
• Personal identification such as a driver's license, student I.D., or state issued I.D.
• Two 2 in. by 2 in. photos taken within the last six months. Note that some offices have the ability to take your picture on site. Check before you go.
• Payment (currently $85 for 16 and over and $70 for 16 and younger).

Q: Are there special travel requirements for minors?

A: Yes. If you are not traveling with both parents, some countries, notably Mexico, require minors to carry a notarized letter signed by the parent or parents not going on the trip. This letter must contain permission to travel, the destination, and trip duration. We expect this requirement to be adopted by more countries including, perhaps, the U.S.

Q: How can I renew by mail?

A: Send a padded envelope with a DS-82 form, available at post offices or on line at www.travel.state.gov/passport_services.html. Also, include your most recent passport and two identical passport photos, along with the renewal fee (currently $55). If your name has changed, you must also send a certified copy of that legal document.

Q: What if I'm in a hurry?

A: Go to the issuing office closest to you and ask for expedited service. You can usually get a passport renewal this way within 14 days, but it will cost about $60 extra. If you're in an even bigger hurry there are private companies that may help, but for even more money. Try Instant Passport (800-284-2564) or www.instantpassport.com. Another company is American Passport Express (800-841-6778) or www.americanpassport.com. For "life or death" emergencies call The National Passport Information Service at 877-487-2778.

Q: Where can I get more information?

A: Call your county courthouse or go to the U.S. State Department website.