As a United States citizen, you will need a passport when traveling to foreign countries. In the past, you were free to take trips to Mexico and Canada without a passport in hand. However, requirements have changed and the rules are different; you are now required to possess a passport when visiting our neighbors to the north and south. Even minors need to possess a passport. Before you start the application process, you need to know where to get a passport and the details of the application process.

Obtaining a U. S passport is a straightforward process that requires some attention to detail and patience. You will need to have the proper proof of citizenship. A certified certificate of birth is needed for this. You will also need to have proper ID such as a driver’s license or some other government issued ID. Then you will need to fill out an application form. You can download this form the Internet. Two passport photos are also need. There are many places you have these photos taken.

Don’t procrastinate. Start the passport application as early as possible. The process can take some time. You need to gather the information, get the photographs taken, fill out the forms, and get to a passport acceptance facility. This all takes a little planning and time.

How long does it take for you to receive your new passport? The average time for the government to get you your passport is 6 weeks. Sometimes it arrives faster than that. If you want to shell out some extra money for expedited service, you may get it in three weeks or less. This faster service will set you back about $60. There may be other fees that apply that will increase the cost of the passport.

The next step in the application journey is discovering where to get a U S passport application. Since this is a government issued ID, it follows that government buildings are your best bet. Federal district courts, municipal offices and courts, post offices and some public libraries are possibilities. Check online with the United States passport Service and you should be able to find out the nearest location. Since there are approximately 7000 passport acceptance facilities in the United States, one should be located within your area. You can also find online sites that claim to process passport application. I have even seen one that claims to get your passport in 24 hours. I would double and triple check these sites before I send away some cash or enter in any confidential info.

If this is your first application for a passport, you will need to apply in person. If you lost your passport and are applying for a new one, you will also need to go to a passport acceptance facility in person. If you are renewing your passport and you were older than 16 when you obtained the lost one, it may be possible to do that through the mail. Even if you are doing it by mail, the process can still take 6 weeks or more. So, you must still remember to plan ahead so you make certain to have your passport in time for your trip.

Before going to a passport acceptance facility, it might be wise to call ahead. Some offices require you to make an appointment. Calling ahead can save some disappointment and hassle when you get there.

Obtaining a passport is absolutely necessary if you want to travel to a foreign country. Knowing where to get a pass port makes the process smoother and easier. Start the passport application process early and you will have it in plenty of time for that big trip abroad.