How to Apply for a US Passport

A U.S. passport is required for any international air travel and for entering most countries outside the United States.
Even for cruises or land travel, many destinations still require a valid passport — and most countries mandate at least six months of validity beyond your return date.

At Hidden Paths Travel, we want every part of your journey to feel seamless — and that starts long before you board a plane. If you or someone in your travel party needs a U.S. passport, here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.

1. Determine the Type of Passport You Need

There are two main options:
Passport Book – Valid for all international air, land, and sea travel.
Passport Card – Valid only for land and sea crossings into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
Most travelers will need the Passport Book.

2. Gather Required Documents

You’ll need:

Proof of U.S. Citizenship
(e.g., original birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
Proof of Identity
(e.g., valid driver’s license, government-issued ID)
Passport Photo
Must meet U.S. State Department guidelines. Many pharmacies, post offices, and shipping stores offer compliant photos.
Passport Application (Form DS-11) for first-time applicants or children under 16.
Form DS-82 is used for renewals by mail.

3. Complete the Correct Application Form

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to fill out the appropriate form online.

U.S. Department of State Passport Application
Important: Don’t sign the form until instructed to do so at your appointment (for DS-11).

4. Submit Your Application

If it’s your first passport, or if the applicant is a child, you must apply in person.
You can submit at:

U.S. Post Offices
County Clerk’s Offices
Public Libraries
Passport Acceptance Facilities

Bring all required documents plus payment (fees vary based on the type of passport and processing speed).

5. Renewing Your Passport

If your current passport is undamaged, issued within the last 15 years, and you were age 16+ at the time of issue, you can renew by mail using Form DS-82.

6. Processing Times

Standard processing times generally range from 6–8 weeks, with expedited services available for an additional fee that usually shorten the wait to 2–3 weeks.
Times can fluctuate seasonally, so plan ahead — ideally 9+ weeks before travel.

7. Track Your Application

After submitting, you can track your passport status on the State Department website. It may take up to two weeks for tracking to update.

8. Don’t Forget for Kids

Children under 16 require both parents/guardians to appear in person when applying. Child passports are valid for 5 years.

Hidden Paths Travel, LLC

A Proud Affiliate of Fora Travel