New passport

Exciting! Getting a new passport can be a bit of a process, but I'm here to guide you through it.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you obtain a new passport:

Step 1: Determine Which Type of Passport You Need

• First-time applicant: If you've never had a passport before, you'll need to apply for a new passport book or passport card.
• Replacement: If your current passport is damaged, lost, or stolen, you'll need to apply for a replacement.
• Renewal: If your current passport is expired or will expire soon, you can renew it.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
• Proof of identity (driver's license, government-issued ID, or current passport)
• Photocopy of both sides of your ID
• Photocopy of your citizenship proof

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

• Download and complete form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) from the U.S. Department of State's website or pick one up from a passport acceptance facility.
• Fill it out online and print it, or print a blank form and fill it out by hand.
• Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.

Step 4: Get a Passport Photo

• You'll need one recent, color photograph that meets the Department of State's requirements.
• The photo should be 2x2 inches in size, with a white background, and a neutral expression.

Step 5: Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility

• There are over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the U.S., including post offices, libraries, and county clerk's offices.
• Make an appointment if possible, and bring all your documents and the application fee.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

• The acceptance agent will review your application, witness your signature, and send it to the Department of State for processing.
• They'll also collect the application fee and any additional fees for expedited processing or overnight delivery.

Step 7: Pay the Fees

• The application fee for a U.S. passport book is currently $110 for adults (16 and older) and $80 for children (15 and younger).
• The fee for a passport card is $30 for adults and $15 for children.
• There's also an execution fee, which varies by acceptance facility, but is typically between $25 and $35.

Step 8: Receive Your New Passport

• Processing times can vary depending on the workload of the Department of State, but routine service typically takes 6-8 weeks.
• Expedited service is available for an additional fee, which takes 2-3 weeks.
• Once your new passport is processed, it will be mailed to you via first-class mail.

That's it! If you have any questions or issues during the process, you can contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or visit their website at travel.state.gov.