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Frequently Asked Passport Questions and Answers |
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Q: What is a passport?
A: A United States passport is an internationally recognized travel document attesting to the identity and nationality of the bearer. In essence, it is a request on the part of the issuing government that officials of foreign governments permit the bearer to travel or sojourn in their territories and to afford them all lawful aid and protection.
Q: Who can issue passports?
A: Only Passport Services, Passport Agents of the Department of State, and Foreign Service posts designated by the U.S. Secretary of State have authority to grant, issue or verify United States passports.
Q: Can I Renew My Passport?
If you answer yes to all of these questions you can renew your passport
I can submit my most recent passport.
I was at least 16 years old when my most recent passport was issued.
I was issued my most recent passport less than 15 years ago.
I use the same name as on my most recent passport, OR, I have had my name changed by marriage or court order and can submit proper documentation to reflect my name changes.
Q: How long does it take to get a passport?
A: That depends on the time of year submitted, because of the seasonal nature of travel. During peak travel periods, the normal processing time ranges from four to six weeks. If you need a passport more quickly you may use our service. The government also offers expedited service which normally takes 2 to 3 weeks contact your nearest acceptance agent.
Q: What if I don't have a copy of my birth certificate?
A: Click here for a list of resources for obtaining a birth certificate.
Q: There is no official record of my birth. What can I do?
A: You will need to contact the proper agency (Bureau of Vital Statistics or Health Department) of your birth state. A letter will be issued to this fact, then we can use other items for proof.
Q: What if I am a naturalized citizen?
A: The original naturalization certificate must accompany the application for a passport. It will be returned by the passport agency.
Q: Do I have to bring my child in with me for his/her passport?
A: Yes all children under the age of 16 must accompany there parents or legal guardian.
Q: I need to get my passport as quickly as possible. May I go directly to one of the 12 regional passport agencies.
A: Yes, however you need an appointment, bring all of the required materials as discussed above as well as an extra $35 expediting fee. (The total will be $95 for first time applicants and $75 for passport renewal). See General Passport Information
Q: When is a passport required?
A: See Foreign Entry Requirements.
A passport is not required for travel by U.S. Citizens to any territory or waters, continental or insular, subject to the jurisdiction of the United States (including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands.)
Q: What is the difference between a passport and a visa?
A: A visa is permission granted by the government of a country to an alien to enter that country and to remain for a specific period of time. It is the responsibility of the traveler to obtain necessary visas, if any, before proceeding abroad. Visas are obtained from the embassy or consulate of the countries to which the applicant wishes to travel.
Q: Do I need a passport for travel to Mexico, Canada or the Bahamas?
A:Yes.
Q: I am not a U.S. citizen, but I need a passport. What must I do?
A: You must contact the nearest consulate for your country.
Q: I dont have a birth certificate, but I have my military papers. Will that suffice?
A: No.
Q: My passport has been lost, stolen or mutilated. What must I do?
A: You must complete a new application, the DS-11, with new pictures, birth certificate and affidavit of lost or stolen passport, the affidavit is form DS-64 available through acceptance agents.
Q: I am a convicted felon. Can I get a passport?
A: That is entirely up to the discretion of the Passport Agency.
Q: Can my child be included on my passport?
A: No, they need to get their own. |
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