For international traveling passport is the most important thing to carry with you otherwise you will not be able to go abroad. Applying for a passport for the first time is confusing and time-consuming for many people, they need to learn the right sequence to apply. Here we will provide you the complete guidance step by step for your first Passport application so you can apply smoothly.

How can you apply for a new US Passport?

If you are applying US passport for the first time and you are above 16 consider the following steps.

● Fill Application Form:

The first thing you need is the DS-11 Application Form. You can fill it out online or by printing it. It is compulsory to fill in all the parts but make sure not to sign it until you are asked to do so by the the passport agent.

You have to print this form on single-sided paper as the U.S. Department of State does not accept double-sided forms.

● Arrange Required Documents:

After filling application form gather all the necessary documents required for a passport such as:

• US Birth Certificate
• Counselor Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Certificate of Neutralization
• Driving License or Identity Card issued by States. (For identity purposes)
• 2 passport photos

Make a photocopy of all these documents and make sure that the photocopy is printed in black and white and on single-sided paper. After that get a photocopy of it having all the documents mentioned above. If you do not have any of the mentioned documents, contact the Citizenship Evidence Page for further help.

● Passport Fees:

A passport fee is compulsory for all passport applications and when you apply with Form DS-11, you have to pay two fees. The application fee which is $130 for adults and $100 for those under 16, will be paid at the U.S. Department of State, and the acceptance fee which is $35 for all, will be paid at the faculty where you will submit your application.

● Visit Local Passport Office for Submitting Your Application:

To submit your application you have to visit the passport office such as the post office. Post offices that have passport services fixed specific hours for that, so you will need to schedule the meeting with faculty by online customer appointment schedule.

● Check Status Updates Regularly:

After completing all the steps mentioned above you will need to check your application status by online passport system.

How to Apply for Passport Renewal?

Applying for passport renewal is much easier than applying new one but make sure that you apply before nine months of expiring of your old passport. You can apply by mail too with a few clicks let’s explore how.

• Check the requirements:You can apply for renewal if your current passport is not damaged, issued within the last 15 years, and after your 16th birthday.
• Fill out the form:Use form DS-82 along with your 2 passport photos and current passport.
• Pay application fees:The passport Renewal application fee is $130 which you have to send along with your documentation to the S. Department of State.
• Wait for processing: Normally it takes 8 weeks to renew your passport but if you need it sooner you can make an appointment with passport agencies and pay extra fees.

By following these vital steps carefully and providing authentic documentation, you can ensure an efficient and smooth new passport or passport renewal process that will allow you to continue your wonderful hassle-free journey.