How to Apply For A U.S. Passport to Travel Internationally

Passport Application for U.S. Citizens Overview

A US passport is a travel document issued by the United States of America that contains a person's identity. This document will allow them to travel to and from foreign countries more easily. A passport will include your full name, date of birth, place of birth, photograph, signature, and expiration date.

If you want to travel the world, applying for a passport is the first step. A passport book is required for all international air travel. If you do not get a passport, there are a few territories to choose from that do not require a passport, but your choices will be limited.

I decided to get a passport because my mother planned our first international family trip to Jamaica. This inspired my entire family to get their passports too. I will show you how to apply for your U.S. passport in a simpler way since I know the travel.state.gov website can be a bit confusing.

A U.S. passport is used by American citizens to travel and vacation internationally.

PREPARING YOUR PASSPORT APPLICATION

Search travel.state.gov in your browser bar. 

1. The direct link to fill out the U.S. passport application online.

2. Follow the prompts and fill out the online form in its entirety. Make sure your inputs are accurate.

3. Print the passport application you filled out online. If you are unable to print your passport application, your local United States Postal Service (USPS) office provides paper applications that can be filled out by hand. Be sure to print neatly if you choose that option. 

4. Gather the documents that are required. Determine which ones you will need to provide by reviewing the travel.state.gov webpage here.

5. Determine how much money you will owe by using the passport fee calculator.

Tip: Make sure your U.S passport application is accurate and that you are able to provide required documents to prevent processing delays or your application from being rejected.

WHAT DOCUMENTS DO YOU NEED?

1. Provide Evidence of US Citizenship

   If you do not have access to a printer to make a photocopy, you can submit an actual birth certificate.

   But don't worry. They will send it back to you in the mail after you receive your passport.

2. Photo Government Issued Identification

   They will make a copy of this to submit along with your passport application.

Get your passport to travel to Latin America and the Caribbean.

STEPS TO GET YOUR PASSPORT

Schedule a passport application acceptance appointment at the USPS online.

1. Recommended: Schedule one at a place that takes photos for you.

   2. Provide your own 2x2-inch photo. Review the passport photo requirements here if you plan to bring your own photograph.

6. Before your appointment:

You should double-check your application for any errors or omitted information. Check and make sure you have the proper documents and store them in a personal folder. You should have your printed or completed application, proof of U.S. citizen with you if you are an American citizen, and a 2x2-inch passport photo if you're bringing your own. Be sure to carry this folder with you and don’t forget your identification.

7. Get to your appointment on time. 

A postal service worker will walk you through submitting your application. Once finished, they will request payment for passport and appointment fees.

8. Now it’s time to wait. Check your Passport application status here.

Once your passport is shipped, you'll be able to access the tracking number. If you submitted an official birth certificate, expect your document to be shipped to your home address within 4 weeks of receiving your passport.

I received my passport 2 weeks after submitting my application even though they gave me an estimated timeline of 8-11 weeks. I am so glad it came sooner than later.

Now hurry! It’s time to go get your passport too. Happy travels.