Jun 16 2011
The Way To Apply For A Passport
The attacks of September 11, 2001, forced the United States to protect its borders stringently. You used to be able to pass between two countries with little problem, now you must apply for a pass port. Travel done by car in some areas can be done with an enhanced license. An enhanced license contains a strip that gives officials all the background information needed on the individual. The enhanced license also carries a photo ID.
Any other form of travel requires proper papers. Do not let the regulations and rules intimidate you. Carefully following the directions will get you through the entire process easily. You will have to have an original birth certificate showing the raised certified seal for a stolen pasport replacement. Birth outside the United States will call for an original certificate of citizenship or naturalization papers. No copies of papers will be accepted.
The form is a “DS-11 Application for a U. S. Passport”. Designated offices will have these forms or you can download them from the United States Department of State. It is a good idea to have more than one copy. These forms must be filled out using black ink and mistakes will get your application rejected. Do not sign the application. Signatures must be done in the presence of an official passport agent.
Other documents needed would be a drivers’ license, a military ID, or a government ID. Measuring two by two inches in size, you will need two photos taken with certain specifications. You can have them done by someone of your choice or at the application office. Cost is generally in the $10.00 to $20.00 dollar range. All papers should be sent by certified insured mail.
These new rules and regulations pertain to adults, children, and infants. It is the recommendation of the U. S. Government that all citizens get one. The tightened security at our borders has made it more difficult than ever to leave or re-enter the U. S. The average cost is $100.00 including photos.
A small minority of people can apply through the mail. These include only those that had a valid passport no more than fifteens years old with no changes required. If you got your document before the age of 16 or if you are applying for the first time, you must appear. Failure to produce an old document or if you think your documents were lost or stolen, you must also appear in person before an official agent.
Whenever you need a passport in a hurry, the best way to apply is in person. An expedited application can be submitted along with your papers. An average wait time is three to four weeks. An expedited application will take less time. Once received, your passport is good for ten years.
All of your personal documents will be returned to you when you apply for a United States passport. If lost in shipping, these documents can be difficult and costly to replace. Purchase insurance on the papers you submit when you apply for a passport. When applying for a stolen American passport replacement, you will find it much easier and cheaper to do than the first time.
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