Getting ready to go abroad? Step 1: get a passport! Don't worry though, it's really easy.
Between knowing where to start and what documents you need, getting a passport can be a little bit stressful but honestly it's a sinch. We've got all the steps here for you.
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Getting Your U.S. Passport
They've made the process pretty easy and straightforward — for first-time passport holders, you'll need to fill out some paperwork and send in some identification documents, photos, and payment.
Some of this can be done online, but first-time passport applicants must finalize their applications in person (or follow specific instructions if in-person service isn't available).
If you are just renewing your passport, you can do so online.
However, no matter your situation, you'll need to start online.
1. Get Answers Online
You'll get started on the State Department's official website—this page gets you started with quick links to common questions.
2. Prepare Your Required Documents
If this is your first time getting a passport, you do need to complete your application in person, but you should get everything ready ahead of time to bring with you.
This page walks you through applying for your application (for adults), step by step.
Here's a quick summary of that page above of everything you need to gather and prepare before going to apply for your passport:
- 1. Fill out your application online + print it out
- 2. Have proof of US citizenship—usually your birth certificate is easiest (you'll need both the original and a photocopy of it)
- 3. Have a valid ID—usually your driver's license is easiest (you'll need both the original and a photocopy of it)
- 4. Have one passport photo (here are cheap places to get them)
- 5. Be ready to pay the passport fee—check here for pricing updates and special circumstances, but at the time this post was written, the fee for a first-time adult passport is $130 (application fee) + $35 (facility acceptance fee), totaling $165 USD.
*Important note for your application: At times in the past, the US passport application allowed you to select M, F, or X (unspecified or other) for your gender. Some foreign countries require that your gender be stated as M or F on your passport, and in these locations, you may be denied entry if your passport states X. No matter the options when you apply, we recommend selecting M or F on your passport application in the gender section to avoid any complications during your travels.
3. Apply In Person
Now that you have all the requirements compiled for your application, you just need to locate the nearest place where you can submit your passport application.
This locator will help you find the closest place to you. Then just head in during their business hours (or follow instructions for your facility) to get things done!
Hey ILP Volunteers — keep your receipt! You'll want to email a copy of your receipt to our office.
What about renewing?
If you already have a passport and need a new one (because things are about to expire or have already) you can renew your passport through the mail. Follow this page for mail-in instructions.
4. Track Your Passport Status
After 7-10 business days, you can track your application's status right here.
It typically takes 6-8 weeks to get your passport (including application + mailing times), so start as far in advance as you can to ensure you have plenty of time before your trip.
If you need a passport faster than that, you can pay a fee to expedite it. *If you're an ILP volunteer and need to expedite your passport, chat with your ILP Representative to ensure you've got all the information needed for your situation.
Ready for an international adventure?
If you are looking for more travel tips, check out these ILP blogs or you can click below to talk to someone who has been on a semester with International Language Programs before! They can tell you all about their service abroad, more about the ILP countries, and can give you tips on how to pay for a semester abroad — we have tons of fundraising tips and discounts.
