Getting Your Passport In Person
Aazdak Alissimmo
It's vacation time! There are a lot of things to think about when traveling - where you want to go to and when you want to go, and how much time you'd like to spend there - but you also need to think about those little annoying things like the rules of travel, and even, getting your passport.
Travel outside of the United States requires a passport. For most people this is common knowledge, but other people may forget just how important it is to have a passport if you're going outside of the US. There are just a couple of countries that do not require seeing your passport upon arrival in their land.
The two big countries that do not require seeing your passport, at least in some circumstances, are Mexico and Canada. You do not have to show them your passport if you are visiting by land or sea. However, flying in requires a passport. Land and sea requires your birth certificate and driver's license.
For people who have not yet had a US passport, there is a strict requirement that your passport is applied for in person. Probably the best way to do this is to look up which of your local US Post Offices accepts passport applications. Or, you can ask your post office in person.
There are other locations that will accept your passport application, if this is the first time you are applying for your passport. These include some public libraries, state, county and town municipal offices and court clerk offices. In all, there are over 9,000 spots to apply for your passport.
When applying, bring your completed application (download a passport application off the Internet) along with two passport photos (2"x2", identical, obtainable at any photo processing store) to your selected site. You will also need proof of citizenship, such as your birth certificate.
A final step is proving your identity - which is usually done by presenting your valid state's driver's license or other official state's identification card. If you are applying for a passport for a minor, you will need to be present, as well as the minor, to vouch for the child's identity.
Get ready to pony up some moolah, as your final step is paying for the passport fees. About $100 will get you a standard passport processing time, additional money will get you a more expedited time. Minors' passports cost less. Processing time can take up to eight weeks depending on many variables.
Give yourself plenty of time before you need your passport - a good rule is allow an extra month of time over what the predicted processing time is. That way, you won't be stressed over getting your passport in time, and you can make sure that you travel in relaxation and have a great trip.
Aazdak Alisimo writes about travel subjects for NomadJournals.com - makers of travel journals that make great http://www.nomadjournals.com/promotional-products.cfm) promotional gifts.
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