How Long Does it Take to Get a Passport?
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You may have to get a passport more than once in your life. Growing up, going abroad for work or school, getting married, adopting a child, or updating your photo require separate passport applications and processes. Even if you’re a frequent flyer, getting a passport is different for everyone. All passport applications are handled by the same regional agency — the U.S. Department of State. The type of application you need depends on why you’re applying and how quickly you need it granted. Getting a first-time adult passport requires an interview and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. Passport). Getting a new or updated passport as an adult, teen or child isn’t necessarily complicated – just different depending on your circumstances and needs.
How long does it take to get a passport?
Getting a passport is a complicated process, and it’s not uncommon to experience some delays. The best way to minimize this is to apply as early as possible. Here are the standard processing times for first-time passports and renewals.
– First-time passports: Six to 12 weeks
– Renewal passports: Six weeks.
All passport applications are handled by the same regional agency — the U.S. Department of State. The type of application you need depends on why you’re applying and how quickly you need it granted. Getting a first time adult passport requires an interview and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. Passport). Getting a new or updated passport as an adult, teen or child isn’t necessarily complicated – just different depending on your circumstances and needs.
What is the process of getting a passport?
The U.S. Department of State issues all American passports. Once you finish your application, the State Department will send your application and documents to the nearest passport agency for processing. After you pass a security screening, you’ll be issued a temporary passport and be able to travel with it. Your passport will be mailed to your address within two to three weeks. If you need your passport sooner, you can request expedited service by paying an additional fee. Getting a passport for the first time, renewing it, or changing your information takes about the same time. The first thing you’ll do is fill out an application. The State Department recommends applying at least eight weeks before your trip — six weeks if you’re traveling domestically — allowing yourself enough time for the application process. At the same time, you’ll need to send proof of your citizenship, identification, and travel plans.
Renewing a passport
If you already have a valid passport, and it is set to expire within the next six months, you can renew your passport. You can do this via the same application method you were applying for the first time. The process will be the same, except that you already have a government-issued photo ID. You will also need to sign a declaration stating that your passport has not expired. If your passport has expired, you must apply for a new one. This also applies if you have a damaged passport.
Updating your photo in your current passport
If your appearance has changed significantly since your passport was issued, you may need to go through the standard process for first-time applicants and get a new passport with a new photo. You should do this if your current passport photo doesn’t look like you or was taken when you were younger than 16. You should also apply for a new passport if your name has changed since your passport was issued.
Getting a first-time adult passport
If you were 16 or younger when your parents applied for your first passport, you should continue using that same passport until it expires. But if you’re turning 16 or have never had a passport, you’ll have to apply for a first-time adult U.S. passport. You’ll need to include proof of your U.S. citizenship, a U.S. driver’s license or state-issued identification card, a certified birth certificate, proof of your name change, or a recent marriage certificate.
Updating the information in your current passport
It’s also possible to change the information on your current passport. This often happens when a person gets married and wants to update their surname on their passport. To do this, you’ll need to send proof of your identity, your current passport, your marriage certificate, and a cover letter explaining why you need to update the information in your current passport.
Getting an entirely new passport with a new photo
Sometimes you may need to get a new passport with a recent photograph. This can happen if your passport is lost or stolen, if it’s damaged or if your name has changed. You’ll need to report your passport as soon as possible if passport is stolen. You can also apply for a new passport if you’ve changed your name due to marriage or divorce. You’ll need to send in proof of your new name, your current passport, divorce decree or marriage certificate, and any other documents that may be required.