There was a time when traveling to places like Canada or Mexico was as simple as hopping in the car and going, but those days are long gone. Now, anyone crossing a border is looking at getting a passport for the first time in their lives. Anyone who has never had to do this should know right off the bat that it is not something that can usually be handled in a few minutes.
When getting a passport for the first time, there are some basic tips that will go a long way in making sure that the process only has to be gone through once and that it takes place as fast as possible. While there are forms and such that can be downloaded over the Internet, this is mostly an in-person process. Knowing where go and what to have is half the battle.
First, all of the information that is needed is available on the State Departments Web site. While we try to cover everything here, laws do change and it is always best to make sure that the information obtained is the most recent. Otherwise, there is the risk of getting to the application center and not having everything that is needed.
The very first thing that has to be done is to get a passport photo taken. The dimensions of the picture are very specific, so only places that specialize in this type of photo should be used. The Internet is a great place to check and just plugging in a term like "passport photos Philadelphia" will give plenty of locations to have the photos taken.
Passport photos should be taken in the manner in which the person is going to travel. For instance, that McDonald's uniform cannot be worn during the photo. Attire should be casual and the photo should depict the person as they will look when they are traveling. If a hearing aid is worn, make sure it is in when the picture is snapped.
All documentation will need to be gathered at this point. All ID's must be valid government issued ID's. Something like the ID card from the check cashing place is not a valid ID. They must be forms such as non-drivers license, driver's license and military ID. If it is not state or federally issued, chances are that it will not be accepted. A birth certificate or other proof of citizenship will also be required.
When all information is finally together, the trip to the application center can finally be made. The USPS is a common outlet for passport application centers, but not all post offices accept applications. It is best to go on their website and search under government services to see the post office that is located the closest that can perform this service.
Getting a passport for the first time can be a little trying for someone that has never done it before, but it really is not that difficult. The trick is in making sure that all documentation is valid and meets the guidelines that have been set forth by the State Department. If everything is in line, your new passport will be sent out about two months after the application has been accepted.
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