Getting A Passport For You And Baby

If you already have a U.S. passport for you and baby, good for you! You’re ready to travel. If not, have no worries. We’ll explain the process for you. First off, whether the passport is for you or for your child, you do have to appear in a person to apply. However, the process can be easier if you start preparing your materials before you visit a passport agency. You also should apply for a passport several months before you travel. It typically takes six weeks after processing the application for you to get your passport. Here’s a step-by-step process for getting a passport for you or baby.

1. First, get a passport application. An easy way to do this is download it off the Bureau of Consular Affairs Website at www.travel.state.gov. You can also find passport applications at certain post offices as well.
2. Fill out the application and make an appointment to go to an approved passport acceptance facility. They have thousands of locations, so you don’t have to worry about finding one within reasonable distance to you. The Consular Affairs Website maintains a list so you’ll know where to go.
3. Gather all the necessary supporting documents. You need to provide one proof of U.S. citizenship and one proof of identity. Proof of citizenship can be an older passport or birth certificate. Proof of identity can also include an older passport or naturalization certificate or driver’s license. For your little one, parent identification would be required and parent consent may be requested as well.
4. You also need to provide 2- 2”x2” photos. If you take your own, they must be taken with a frontal facial view. The image from the bottom your chin to the top of your head should measure 1 to 1-3/8”. Have a white or off-white background behind you, dress in plain clothes, and don’t wear any hats or dark glasses. Prescription glasses are fine. You can also get passport photos at a number of photo processing locations.
5. When you go in, have your application, supporting documents, and photos on hand. Be prepared to pay the fee with a credit card, debit card, or check.

Helpful Hint: If you absolutely must get your passport sooner, you can expedite the process by paying an additional fee to get your passport in two weeks instead of six.