Different Types Of US Passport Applications
US passport application can be easy provided that you know how and where to apply. Given the various ways and types of obtaining a passport, be sure to compile and submit all the documents required. Also ensure that you fill-out the correct US passport application forms. These forms can be obtained online or at any of the passport acceptance facility in your area.
The different types of US passport application are primarily divided into the type of passport you need and the circumstances in which you need a passport.
(1) First time US passport application - applying for a passport for the first time basically takes four to six weeks of processing. You need to submit all required documents together with a filled-out form known as DS-11 in person at any of the passport acceptance facility in your area of residence. Take note that the DS-11 form must be read carefully before being completed. You are not to sign the DS-11 US passport application form unless a representative of the passport acceptance facility tells you to sign it in front of them. Also ensure that you bring the form's third and fourth pages together with the other requirements which include two passport photographs, any valid photo identification such as a driver's license, and proof of your US citizenship.
(2) US passport application to renew your expired passport - there is no need for you to apply in person. You just need to fill-out a DS-82 US passport application form and mail this together with your most recent passport to a passport acceptance facility in your area. Other requirements include two pieces of your most recent passport photographs and a fee of US$ 67 which is payable to the US Department of State. (3) US passport application for minors (children under 14 years old and below, and between 14 and 17 years old) - for children between the ages of 14 and 17 years old, the application process and requirements to get a passport are the same for adults getting a passport for the first time. For children ages 14 years old and below, they need to submit special requirements which must be presented in person together with a filled-out DS-11 US passport application form. These special requirements include proof of relationship and citizenship such as a certified US birth certificate, a certificate of birth abroad, previous valid US passport if there is any and a naturalization or citizenship certificate from USCIS. (4) US passport application for lost, stolen or damaged passport -if you have damaged or lost your passport, you need to apply for another passport. If your passport is stolen, report its loss immediately. For a case like this, you need to fill out a Form DS-64 (you must provide a statement regarding your lost or stolen passport) and submit this together with a DS-11 form in person to any of your area's passport acceptance facility. These types of application and circumstances should provide you with a general guideline in your US passport application, making it easy for you in preparing the necessary documents.
| 
