OBTAINING YOUR PASSPORT
Passports
The Passport Services Office provides information and services to American
citizens about how to obtain, replace or change a passport. A passport is an
internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and
nationality of the bearer. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave
most foreign countries. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to
grant, issue or verify United States passports.
New Application for a U.S. Passport
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of
6,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with
two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of
photo identification such as a driver’s license. Acceptance facilities include
many Federal, state and probate courts, post offices, some public libraries and
a number of county and municipal offices. There are also 13 regional passport
agencies, most of which serve only those who are departing urgently.
Appointments are required in such cases. You’ll need to apply in person if you
are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time; if your expired U.S.
passport is not in your possession; if your previous U.S. passport has expired
and was issued more than 15 years ago; or if your previous U.S. passport was
issued when you are under 16 your currently valid U.S. passport has been lost
of stolen.For more information on getting a new passport, please see: How to get a
passport.
Renewal of a U.S. Passport
You can renew by mail if: Your most recent passport is available to submit
and it is not damaged; you received the passport within the past 15 years; you
were over age 16 when it was issued; you still have the same name, or can
legally document your name change.If your passport has been, altered or
damaged, you cannot apply by mail. You must apply in person.For more
information on how to renew a passport, please see: How to renew a
passport.
The content of this page has been obtained from
the Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State.
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