How to Obtain a Passports

1. Obtain a Passport Application
   Forms are available at your local post office or may be printed from the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov. You can also call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (toll free), or contact them by e-mail at: npic@state.gov
2. Complete the Passport Application
   Information must be typed or written in BLACK ink. IMPORTANT: Do NOT sign form until you return to the post office and are instructed to sign.
3. Obtain Proof of Citizenship
   Valid proof includes a previous passport, naturalization papers, or certified copy of birth certificate available from the registrar's office of the county in which you were born. If no birth certificate is on file, obtain a certified "Letter of No Record" from the state, and check with the sources in #1 above as to what other proof will be required.
4. Obtain Photographs
   You must have two IDENTICAL 2" x 2" photos of yourself, taken within the last 6 months and showing current appearance. The photos must be in color, showing a front view of your face and with a white or off-white background. You can check photographer's listings in the Yellow Pages, as many advertise passport photos.
5. Obtain Personal Identification
   Valid ID includes a CURRENT (not expired) driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or FAA pilot's license. ID must have an expiration date and photograph. Name changes due to marriage or divorce must be reflected on your picture ID. A parent must accompany a child who does not have a picture ID and submit documentation of parental relationship and consent.
6. Return Application Form in Person
   Return the form along with proof of citizenship, photographs, and personal identification IN PERSON to your local post office. Do NOT sign the form before going to the post office.
7. Pay Fee
   Fee is $85 for those 16 years of age and over (valid for 10 years) and $70 for those under 16 (valid for 5 years). Fees may be paid by personal check, cashier's check, cash or money order. Credit cards may be accepted in some locations. You may also pay by cash or money order. Allow 6 weeks for processing.



How to Renew a Passport

8. Renewing a passport costs $55. You will need to have two new passport photos taken. Send those along with your check, the old passport, and a completed renewal form. You can obtain a Passport Renewal Form through the sources noted in #1 above.
9. If you already have a passport, it must be valid for more than 3 months after your scheduled return date, so be aware of the expiration date.



Other Information Regarding Passports

10. Applications can be expedited for an additional fee of $60, provided urgent departure information can be verified. Contact your Congressperson if you are having trouble getting your passport on time.
11. Minors under 18 years of age who apply must submit written parental consent to leave the country.
12. All applicants must know their social security number. If you do not provide a social security number, the IRS may impose a $500 penalty.
13. If your passport should become lost or stolen, you must report it immediately: a) Inside the U. S. - to the nearest Passport Office; b) Outside the U. S. - to local police authorities and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
14. Information about visa requirements is available from the consulate of the countries to which you are traveling, and usually can be found on their website.
15. When you receive your passport, sign it, fill out the emergency information page, and carry it with you at all times while traveling abroad.
16. This information is subject to change, and Image Tours accepts no responsibility or liability for any incomplete or incorrect information. For verification of the most current information, a list of passport acceptance facilities, or for more details, consult one of the following sources:
    
    1. U.S. Dept. of State website at: www.travel.state.gov
    2. Your local post office
    3. National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778