Sep 13 2010
Getting Your USA Passport Made Easy
The information is out there, its just organizing it that gives a lot of people problems. One of the first things you need to know, however, is you cannot procrastinate this process. Unless you want to pay extra for an expedited service, you need to start the passport process as soon as possible. The process can take up to three months, so be sure to start plenty of time in advance. An online U.S. passport service is a great way to get new passports, so Ill be sure to include that.
1. First you have to acquire your United States passport form and you can pick one up at your local post office or simply download one from an online passport service.
2. Complete the passport, and if you downloaded it, print it out. If you print it, it needs to be on regular printer paper: 8.5 inches by 11 inches, no holes, black ink on white paper, and with a matte surface.
3. Documentation of your United States citizenship is required so be ready to provide a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, international birth record or certificate of citizenship. You must provide an original as copies are not accepted.
4. Next, you will have to prove your identity. There are also a few ways you can do this. Among them are: a valid drivers license, a previously issued, undamaged passport, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship, or a government or military identification.
5. Next, you get to model for the camera! You must obtain two identical passport photos for your passports. Be sure to wear your normal, everyday clothes with nothing covering your head. If you wear glasses or any other semi-permanent addition that alters your wardrobe, wear them. There are plenty of places where you can get these photos taken, including the post office, convenience stores, or photography studios. An acceptable passport photo has: a full-frontal view of the head and face centered in the middle of the photograph with both eyes open, a white of off-white background, adequate lighting as not to create distortions by shadows, and a natural facial expression.
6. Be ready to give your social security number.
7. The normal cost for a passport is approximately $100 but the cost can increase depending on where you go to apply and if you require expedited delivery service so be sure you have enough cash on hand.
8. Either visit your local passport office or submit your application online. Decide how soon you need your passport and choose the corresponding option. Now you just wait!
Well, it might sound like a lot of red tape but getting a passport is easy, especially if you use an online United States passport service. In review, fill out your passport application, provide proof of citizenship and identity, get your passport photos, submit your application with payment and start planning your next trip. A passport is valid for a ten year period so this is a process that you wont have to go through very often. Remember, a passport is you ticket to world travel and a lifetime of memories.
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