How To Apply For A Passport

Need to know how to apply for a passport for that awesome summer trip? Look no further. A passport enables movement from jurisdiction to jurisdiction without much hassle, certifying the identity and origins of the holder. If you want your own passport you'll have to go through some hoops, pass some possible red tape, and fill out a few forms. That being said, once you apply for a passport you'll be able to travel to lots of foreign countries on a whim, provided you have the means to get there and back of course!

To apply for a passport you need these:

• Passport photo
• Proof of citizenship
• Identification
• Passport Application DS 11
• Computer
• Internet access
• Means of travel

1. Log on to the State Department's website. Specifically, the travel site of the State Department should be located. One can find this merely by typing in "state department", "apply", and "passport" into a search engine.
2. Fill out the form. To get a passport you'll have to fill out the application form. The State Department will have its own form available to be typed up online, however it can also be filled out by hand. Whichever you prefer, it doesn't matter how it gets to them as long as it's legible. Print out the application once complete.
3. Take a passport photo! You can easily take a fast, reliable photo from any local office or camera store. They are small in size, 2x2 inches, but must be of high quality. These photos should be focused on your face and of the recommended proportions to ensure speedy processing.
4. Gather proof of citizenship and identification. A United States Driver's License (or other state-issued identification) will qualify as proof of identity and a Certificate of Live Birth will suffice as proof of citizenship. Consult the State Department's website for other acceptable forms of ID.
5. Bring all the documents in person and pay the passport fee. The fee for processing and making your passport will vary depending on what you need. Passport cards are less expensive than passport books, for instance, but do not cover air travel (only sea and border crossing). You can locate a nearby place to submit your application on the State Department's website.
6. Wait. Passports are infamous for what many deem "long" wait times. It usually takes anywhere between one to two months to process a normal passport request, with more timely delivery for those who pay more (even as quick as a few weeks in emergency cases).

After you apply for a passport, be sure to schedule your trip at an appropriate time in the future. For example, don't schedule a flight in a week if you know the passport won't be processed until a month and a half from now. Good luck, and happy travels!