Passport 101

1. Form DS-11 applying for first time (must be done at post office or Passport Agency), DS-82 you can submit a previous US passport issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 or older (Mail-in to address on application).

2. US Citizenship evidence (i.e. birth certificate).

3. Valid Photo ID and photocopy of that ID.

4. One color passport photo (you can usually get these taken at your local pharmacy).

 

 

 

- Passport Book: Can be used for all international air, land and sea travel.

- Passport Card: For land and sea travel, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Bermuda at land crossings and sea ports of entry.

- Card can not be used for international air travel.

 

 

 

- You should carry your passport with you at all times when traveling in another country.

- Do not carry your passport in US as identification may become lost/stolen or damaged.

- Lost or Stolen passport: Overseas go to nearest US Embassy or Consulate; In USA report to National Passport Center 1-877-487-2778

- If lost or stolen must re-apply at Acceptance Facility and complete form DS-64 Lost/Stolen Passport in detail.

 

 

 

May apply for passport before marriage in maiden name. After marriage send in : Form DS-5504 name change application, original passport, one photo and certified marriage certificate to address on application. Must be done within ONE year of issuance date of original passport. Must remember to have plane tickets made out to your name that is on passport.

 

 

 

- Passport Book fees: Adults first time DS-11= $135.00 ($110.00 passport fee $25.00 execution fee to Acceptance facility

Adult renewal DS-82= $110.00

 

- Passport Card fees: Adult first time DS-11= $55.00 ($30.00 for card & $25.00 exec. Fee)

Adult renewal DS-82= $30.00

 

Adult passport book or card is valid for 10 years.

 

 

 

Processing time for routine passport application is 4 to 6 weeks.  Expedited service extra $60.00 2 to 3 weeks.

 

 

 

Department of State has a great web site for the American traveler: www.Travel.State.Gov

 

For more information there is a 24 hour 7 days a week line that is staffed with Customer Service Representatives to answer all questions from nearest acceptance facility to status of passport application. That number is: 1-877-487-2778