Applying for a passport is a crucial step for anyone planning international travel. Knowing where to apply for a passport can significantly streamline the process and reduce potential delays. It’s advisable to begin your passport application well in advance of your intended travel dates, ideally several months ahead. Passport processing times can fluctuate, so always refer to the most recent service estimates provided by the U.S. State Department. For first-time applicants, minors, and individuals who are ineligible for mail renewal, applying in person is generally required. A convenient option for in-person applications is at a designated Post Office. The U.S. State Department’s website offers detailed guidance on the necessary documents and steps involved in your passport application.
- Application forms (ensure they are unsigned before submission)
- Proof of identity, along with a photocopy of both the front and back
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship, accompanied by a photocopy of both sides
- Passport fees (it’s important to understand the costs involved)
Apply for a Passport in Person
Preparing Your Passport Application Package
Before heading to your chosen application location, meticulous preparation of your application package is essential. The U.S. Department of State website is your primary resource for up-to-date information on how to apply for a passport and the specific documents you will need.
- Complete Form DS-11 Online: Begin by filling out the Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport directly on the State Department’s website. This online form is designed to guide you through each section, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- Print Your Application (Unsigned): Once you’ve finished the online form, print it out. It is critical not to sign the application at this stage. You will need to sign it in the presence of a Postal employee or authorized passport acceptance agent.
- Obtain a Passport Photo: You will need to submit a recent passport photo that meets specific U.S. passport photo requirements. Many drugstores and photo studios offer passport photo services. Ensure the photo adheres to the guidelines regarding size, background, and pose.
- Photocopy Identity and Citizenship Documents: Make photocopies of both your proof of identity and your U.S. Citizenship documents. Remember to copy both the front and back of each document.
- Calculate Passport Fees: Understand the different fees associated with passport applications.
- For Post Office acceptance fees, you can typically use credit cards, checks, and money orders.
- State Department processing fees, which are mailed with your application, can be paid using personal checks, certified checks, cashier’s checks, traveler’s checks, or money orders, made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Get Started on Your Application
Scheduling Your Passport Appointment
Post Offices offering passport services operate during designated hours, and appointments are generally necessary. You can conveniently schedule your appointment through the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or by using a self-service kiosk available in some Post Office lobbies.
Online Appointment Scheduling:
- Access the Scheduler: Go to Schedule an Appointment to begin the online scheduling process.
- Select Passport Services: Choose the specific passport service you require, along with indicating the number of adults and minors needing appointments.
- Search by Location or Date: You have the flexibility to search for appointments by location first and then date, or vice versa. The system will guide you to choose available slots based on your preference.
- Enter Contact Information and Confirm: After selecting your preferred location and time, provide your contact details, agree to the terms and conditions, and proceed to review your appointment.
- Finalize Appointment: Click Review Appointment, and then confirm to finalize your scheduled appointment.
If you need to make changes or cancel your appointment, use the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation number along with your email address or phone number.
Kiosk Appointment Scheduling:
- Locate a Kiosk: Visit a Post Office location equipped with self-service kiosks. You can Find USPS Locations online to find a suitable location.
- Navigate to Passport Scheduler: At the kiosk, touch the screen to start, select “Other Services,” and then choose “Passport Scheduler.”
- Choose Service and Number of Applicants: Select the required passport service and specify the number of adults and minors needing appointments.
- Search for Locations: Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and choose your preferred location.
- Select Date and Time: Select an available appointment date and time from the displayed options, and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Provide Contact Information: Enter your contact information and decide if you want to receive SMS text notifications about your appointment.
- Review and Schedule: Review all entered information, and then select “Schedule Appointment” to complete the process.
- Obtain Receipt: Take your printed receipt, which will contain your confirmation number and appointment details.
Understanding Passport Acceptance and Processing Fees
For first-time passport applications, there are generally two primary fee components: the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Additional costs may include passport photos and fees for expedited processing, should you require faster service. It’s important to understand how to calculate these fees and the acceptable payment methods.
Application Acceptance Fees – Payable to the Postal Service
Acceptance fees are paid in person at the Post Office at the time of your appointment. Acceptable payment methods include checks or money orders payable to “Postmaster,” debit cards, or credit cards.
- $35.00 – Post Office acceptance fee
- $15.00 – Post Office photo fee (if you choose to have your photo taken there)
Application Processing Fees – Payable to the Department of State
State Department processing fees are sent along with your application package. It’s crucial to note that these fees are paid separately from the USPS acceptance fees. Ensure you include the correct payment with your application submission.
