PASSPORT – Your ticket to the WORLD

A U.S. passport is your ticket to international travel. This small book with your name, photo, date of birth, and other information can permit you to travel and even reside temporarily in foreign territories. Most importantly, your passport allows you to re-enter the United States when you return home from travel.

Here are a few benefits:

Used as a form of identification

A passport is recognized as a form of identification and can be used in many instances. For example, obtaining a driver’s licenses, opening a bank account, registering for school. Overall, a passport can be used as a backup form of identification.

Safety and security

One of the greatest benefits is having a sense of security and safety when traveling internationally. Your passport contains important and valuable information that will help you in case of an emergency. The emergency contact information listed in your passport is used to contact family members in case of an emergency while traveling.

International travel

Having a passport allows you to visit almost any country where you can experience different cultures and traditions. A passport can provide opportunities to study abroad.

How to obtain a passport:

1. Go to: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport.html.

2. Complete application Form DS-11 (online or download) and print

3. Must have one color photo, taken in the last 6 months

4. Provide proof of US Citizenship

5. Calculate fees

6. Find a location to apply: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/

7. Current processing times can take up to 13 weeks however for an additional fee,

expedited processing times are up to 9 weeks. * if traveling within 14 days it is recommended to visit an agency for expedited processing. Call 1-877-487-2778 to make an appointment.

8. Check the status: https://passportstatus.state.gov/