If you want to travel to countries other than the one you were born in, you must have papers with you that prove you are a citizen of your birth country. Border crossings require this and you must provide the proper identification in order to be allowed passage. It is easy for first time new passport applicants to get what they need and here is some helpful information to guide you.
To prepare for the application process, you must complete a new passport office form that is easily obtainable by downloading it from the internet. Fill it out before you arrive to submit it, but do not sign it until you actually get to the offices. It is a requirement that you sign this there, in person.
You must provide a few items of identification that show that you are a legal citizen of the country you were born in. Most times, a certified birth certificate is required. If you do not have access to that, you will have to check with the office to see what else can be used. Generally, proof of citizenship must be presented.
A piece of valid photo identification is required as well. Usually, a driver license is sufficient but be sure you double check in order to have exactly what will be accepted. Other examples of photo ID would be an old passport, school identification or a voter registration card.
The next step towards getting your affairs in order is getting your passport photograph taken. There are many places that you can go that specialize in this type of service. Many camera stores and portrait studios offer this for a small fee. The rules for these pictures are precise. Only a half a year can pass once you have your picture taken as the likeness must be a current one. You should wear your glasses if you use them on a regular basis. Additionally, normal clothing should be worn, and no accessories.
Your photos must be taken in color and you have to have two of them taken. The sizes must be of a certain dimension which is outlined on the application. They are usually taken with a white or similar background. You can not smile or pose in these photos and you have to look straight ahead at the camera.
You are now ready to bring all of your information to your nearest passport agency. Depending on how fast you need your new document, the fee will vary. Generally, if you need it quickly, it will cost more. If this is the case, you may have to present at a different office within the agency.
first time U S passport applications are not hard to fill out. They are self explanatory and should pose no difficulties. There is a bit of information gathering on your part, but that part should be fairly simple. If you need help, there are several websites online that you can use as a reference point. You can also download the required American passport office applications from these sites as well. Additionally, the applications are easily attainable from a processing center or even your local post office.
