| Getting your passport can be a tedious and | | | | passport now rather than later, you will need |
| complicated process. If you need to get a | | | | to apply quickly and be prepared with all the |
| passport now, you will find that it is even | | | | right verifications, biometrics, and |
| more complicated. While there are expedited | | | | documentation. To get this information you |
| passport services, you will want plenty of | | | | can either hire a professional passport |
| time to insure you do qualify for expedited | | | | service or you can do your own research. |
| services. Knowing what you need to know for | | | | |
| these services will insure you are on the | | | | You will need specific types of applications |
| right path for getting the documentation | | | | and forms to get a passport now rather than |
| necessary for a speedy and quick transaction. | | | | later. While these documents and applications |
| | | | can be found online, you will want to insure |
| Should you apply in person? | | | | you use the right ink, the right printer, and |
| | | | have all of your information certified and |
| There are many people who ask this question, | | | | accurate. |
| and the answer is simply stated: it depends. | | | | |
| Not everyone has to apply in person, and just | | | | Application for Passport, Form DS-11, is the |
| because you have to apply in person does not | | | | current application ever person must fill out |
| mean you cannot use the help of those | | | | or have filled out for them. Even infants are |
| offering passport services. However, if you | | | | required to have an accurate and completed |
| have to apply in person, you should | | | | application. However, do NOT sign the DS-11 |
| definitely be prepared to be physically | | | | application form unless you are told to do so |
| involved in the application process. | | | | by a Passport Acceptance Agent! If you sign |
| | | | the form beforehand, you will have to fill |
| Answer these questions: | | | | out the form again. This form is easily |
| | | | downloaded via the internet. |
| -- Is this your first time applying for a US | | | | |
| passport? | | | | Remember, you will need present proof of US |
| | | | citizenship to obtain a US passport. You are |
| -- Was your previous US passport stolen, | | | | required to send original documents or |
| damaged, or lost? | | | | certified and authentic copies issued by the |
| | | | appropriate department. You will get your |
| -- Were you issued your previous US passport | | | | documentation back. You will need two basic |
| before the age of 16? | | | | forms of identification: certified birth |
| | | | certificate or previous US passport that is |
| -- Has your previous US passport expired? | | | | in good condition. |
| | | | |
| -- Did your previous passport expire over 15 | | | | There are numerous ways to insure you get a |
| years ago? | | | | passport now rather than later. These |
| | | | passports will insure your safety and |
| -- Has your name changed since your last | | | | security when traveling out of and into the |
| passport was issued? | | | | country. While your situation may vary, you |
| | | | will find that this is these rules will suit |
| If you answered yes to any of these | | | | the majority of individuals. Be sure you |
| questions, you will have to apply for your US | | | | investigate the possibilities and are aware |
| passport in person. If you do need to get a | | | | of updated laws and regulations. |