Introduction to Passport Applications

Basic info about how the passport application process works.

If you're like most Americans, you aren't really familiar with how to get a passport. That's OK! We're here to help. At Without the Stress we're all about the easy way to get things done. Here's what you need to know:

All U.S. Citizens are required to have proper documentation when crossing a U.S. border.

It doesn't matter how old, or how young, if you want to get on a plane and fly to another country, you must have a valid passport book. This is the standard blue passport with the seal on the front that you are probably used to seeing.

If all you want to do is drive over the border to Canada or Mexico, most often, you are required to show a valid passport book, or at least a valid passport card. The card is a newer, cheaper, and more convenient option, which is only good for land and sea border crossings.

Professionals in the trucking or shipping industry can apply for an Enhanced Driver's License, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card. However, if you're not sure whether you qualify for one of these, chances are, you don't.

There are a few other exceptions to the passport requirement which are detailed on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative website. The most common is the Closed Loop Cruise exception. That means if you are going on a cruise that will depart from and return to the same port in the U.S., you may not need a passport. Always check with your cruise line first, just to be sure.

The vast majority of Americans are eligible to receive a US Passport.

If you can prove that you were born in the United States, have a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate, you are most likely eligible to receive a passport.

The few exceptions include individuals who owe more than $2500 in back child support, those who are under parole or probation orders that limit travel, and anyone with an outstanding warrant, even for unpaid traffic tickets. Often, travelers with prior convictions worry that they cannot receive a passport, but this is seldom true. However, some foreign countries do require travelers to report their criminal records and sometimes refuse entry based on that information.

All applications are processed through and issued by the US Department of State.

The U.S. Department of State's Passport Services Directorate is the only authority that approves and produces U.S. passports. Period. While you can submit your application at thousands of local post offices and county clerks, these locations are just the first line of defense, so to speak. They are authorized to verify your identity, confirm that your paperwork is in order and validate your application when you sign it in person. They can also deny an application on technical grounds (wrong form, wrong supporting documents, etc.) but they cannot provide final approval, nor can they produce a passport.

Most applications must be submitted in person.

A passport is one of the most important documents an individual can be issued, so the Department of State doesn't take chances. They require every passport application to be filed in person, except one: adult passport renewals. Child renewals, replacements and of course all first time passports must be applied for in person.

For your convenience, there are over 9,000 Passport Acceptance Facilities across the country. You can find one here.

All applications are submitted in paper form.

While there are a number of ways to make your application process easier, you cannot file a passport application online, by fax or email. You can complete the appropriate forms and receive detailed instructions online, then you have to print the application in order to submit it. Because the Department of State requires original signed forms, original supporting documents and photos, they do not make any other options available.

All new, replacement and child applications require proof of identification and citizenship.

We are regularly asked to help individuals who need a passport for ID. Generally, it's easier, faster and cheaper to get a new driver's license than a passport. Depending on what other supporting proof you might have, it is possible to get a new passport without a valid state-issued ID, but it's a little more complicated and less certain to be approved.

The same is true for proof of citizenship. Without a government-issued birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad, it can be very difficult to get a passport.

Normal passport processing takes about four to six weeks.

After submitting your application, the sealed packet is sent to the central processing center where it will basically disappear for a month or more. The Dept of State does have a way to check the status of your application. Sometimes it updates with information, sometimes it doesn't.

By paying the Dept of State an extra $60, you can save about two to four weeks on processing time and get your passport back in under three weeks.

To get a passport in less than two weeks you must apply at a Regional Passport Agency.

There are only 25 Passport Agencies around the country, so it can be hard to get to one in person. You can check if there is one close to you by clicking here. If you can actually get to a Regional Passport Agency, and you can get an appointment in time for your trip, you might be in luck. Otherwise, you may need help from a passport expediting service.

Passport expediting services like us help clients by answering questions, and using our status with the Department of State to submit rush and emergency passport applications for our clients. Depending on the situation, we can get new passports issued in less than 24 hours.

Because we are so experienced with passports, we know best how to navigate the regulations with confidence, and can guarantee on-time delivery. If you think you need help, check out our services here, or contact us right away.

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