How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

If you are going to be traveling out of the country you will need a U.S. passport. There is no need to stress out over this. Just follow the tips below and you will be on your way to receiving your passport in no time.

1. Get started about two or three months in advance to ensure that you will receive your passport in time for your trip. If you wait until the last minute you may end up getting stuck if there are any complications with your application.

2. Pick up a U.S. passport application. Most people find that the easiest place to pick up an application is at the post office or court building. But be sure to check in advance, not every location will have passport service available.

3. You will need to get a passport picture taken. Remember that the dimensions of the photo must match the specified dimensions on the application.

4. After filling out the application, you will want to return it to the location where you obtained the application. Remember that you must attach your picture as well as your birth certificate. A lot of people make the mistake of taking a copy of their birth certificate with them. This does not work; you must provide an original copy.

After all of this you can sit back and relax. It takes approximately six to eight weeks to receive your passport in the mail.