Getting a passport can definitely be the most daunting part of preparing to travel abroad! Especially since the pandemic began, anything related to getting a government ID has seemed like a major headache. But, the good news about getting a passport is that not much has changed over the years except wait times, so as long as you plan ahead and follow directions carefully, applying for your passport should be a pretty easy process!
Aren’t you excited?! Adventure *literally* awaits.
To help point you in the right direction and launch your meaningful travel journey successfully, we’ve compiled the below list of top 15 frequently asked questions. Be sure to check out our Passports & Visas hub if you have further questions.
By the way, we also have two main tips for your passport once you receive it: Be sure to invest in a passport case or holder to keep this precious cargo protected, and keep a copy of the passport information page in your wallet.
Having a copy of your passport information page on-hand can be crucial if your passport is ever lost, and can sometimes be a substitute for lugging around your actual passport. You can’t do anything “official” like board a plane with just a copy, but some hotels or other tourism-related businesses will accept copies for entry.
Where can I get a passport?
There are a couple different ways to apply for a passport. The standard route if there are no expedited requirements is to apply via mail (if you’re renewing your passport) or at an acceptance facility (if it’s your first passport) and pay the regular prices.
If you need to apply for an expedited passport, you can also do this through the mail or at an expedited facility and pay a rush fee. We recommend using the government’s online passport resources to download and fill out your forms digitally, so all you have to do is print and mail them!
Where to get a passport application
We recommend starting with the Department of State’s online Passport Wizard, as there are several different forms you may need in order to properly apply for your passport. The Passport Wizard will ask you a few questions and then direct you to your passport forms online.
This is not an online application, but it will help you quickly figure out which forms you need to download, fill in, print, and mail.
How to get a passport photo
It’s what’s on the inside that counts.
Getting a passport photo is usually the easy part! Most major pharmacies and grocery stores offer inexpensive passport photo options. While you’re there, be sure to get a few extra copies printed in case you need them down the road (maybe for visas or other IDs).
You can always take a passport photo yourself, too, but make sure you closely follow the requirements listed online—otherwise they’ll be rejected.
Where to send your passport application
If you are mailing in your application, you will need to send it to a National Passport Processing Center. The location you ship it to depends on the state you live in, so check online to make sure you mail it to the right spot! You can of course also apply in person (which is required if it’s your first passport), so check the state department’s website to find the nearest location where you can do so.
How long does it take to get a passport?
Passport processing times usually take around 8-10 weeks to receive your passport once everything has been submitted. But, thanks to the pandemic, you should now budget at least 18 weeks to receive your passport.
It’s a good idea to send it via trackable mail so you can keep an eye on your application before it enters their system, and paying an extra $17.56 for 1-2 day delivery of your returned passport will knock at least a week or so off the tail end.
How long does it take to get an expedited passport?
Applying for an expedited passport will definitely help you get it quicker, but it made a much bigger difference before the pandemic. You should estimate up to 12 weeks to receive your passport if you expedite it. This extra $60+ is totally worth it if you need your passport a month sooner!
What do I need to get a passport?
There are a few requirements for obtaining a passport. Also, a little patience doesn’t hurt.
There are a few documents needed in addition to the standard passport application forms, including proof of citizenship (can be a birth certificate) and a government-issued photo ID (can be a driver’s license), so check the list of options for both online.
You will also need to provide one photo with your passport application that adheres to the passport photo requirements listed online. The last step is paying the necessary fees, which should be done by check or money order. You can’t currently pay for a passport online.
How long does it take to get a passport renewed?
In normal times, renewing a passport isn’t too big of a deal. But, thanks to the pandemic, you should budget at least 18 weeks for your passport to be renewed, or up to 12 weeks if you expedite it.
The wait times unfortunately aren’t any different currently for a new passport or a renewal. We know it’s super annoying, but there’s unfortunately not much to do other than be patient!
How much does it cost to apply for a passport?
There are a few different routes for applying for a passport. If you are an adult (16+) applying for the first time, you can apply for a passport book ($145), a passport card ($65), or both ($175). A passport card can usually only be used for land entry into bordering countries, not international flights, so we don’t usually recommend getting just a card (unless you have no plans to travel internationally by air in the next decade!).
The benefit to having both, however, is that you don’t have to lug your passport book around if you’re just driving up to Canada!
If you want to expedite your passport, it will cost $60 plus the potential for additional shipping and file search fees.
How many blank passport pages do I need to travel?
If you don’t have at least one blank passport page, we’re honestly jealous.
For some countries, you only need one blank passport page to enter. Others require upwards of 6 blank pages to enter, so research this before assuming your current passport is sufficient. Your destination’s immigration or tourism website will have more information.
Be sure to take this requirement seriously, as some airlines won’t even let you board the plane without the right number of blank pages in your passport.
Can you travel with a passport that expires in 2 months?
No, you usually can’t board a plane with a passport that expires in less than 6 months. Pay attention to this carefully because gate agents are super strict about it and you don’t want to find this one out the hard way!
Can you get a passport online?
You can’t technically apply for a passport online, but you can find all the forms needed online and just download them to apply via mail or in person. There are also online resources to check the status of your passport or ask questions through the website, so be sure to utilize all that the State Department has to offer digitally.
How long is a passport good for?
If you applied for your passport when you were 16 or older, your passport is good for 10 years, so you have lots of time to make awesome global memories! Passports issued to anyone younger than 16 are valid for 5 years. Since your passport is valid for so long, we recommend getting a passport book with 52 pages instead of 28 so you have plenty of room for your future stamp collection.
Are old passports returned when renewed?
After *10 years* with ol’ reliable, it’s hard to say goodbye!
If you’re sad about the prospect of giving up your stamp and visa collection, we have great news! In most cases, the government will return your old passport, as it can be used as proof of citizenship. They will usually send it back separately from your new passport so they don’t get confused.
How do I replace a damaged passport?
Passports that have water damage or other significant tears/burns need to be replaced. You will typically have to re-apply in person with your damaged passport, a signed statement explaining the damage, and all of the standard forms/fees required for getting a new passport.
Replacing a lost or stolen passport is basically the same process, but you will need to fill out the Form DS-64 (statement regarding lost or stolen passport) instead of the damage statement listed above.
Find everything you need to plan a trip in GoAbroad.com’s Travel Resource Hub
Getting a passport is actually pretty easy!
We know that applying for something like a passport can seem daunting, especially in the Covid era, but it’s really nothing to be worried about. As long as you follow the directions listed online and have patience, your passport will arrive smoothly. Bon voyage!
While you wait for your passport to arrive, save and compare travel programs with MyGoAbroad—it’s FREE!
Do you have questions about planning your next trip? Talk to us on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook!
Look for the Perfect Program Abroad Now
Start Your Search