---
title: How To Apply For A U.S. Passport
description: Are you worried about applying for a passport? Don't be. Check out these ILP tips for how to apply for a passport.
---

[ILP Blog ](https://blog.ilp.org)

# [How To Apply For A U.S. Passport](https://blog.ilp.org/how-to-apply-for-a-passport)

 Written by [Jen King](https://blog.ilp.org/author/jen-king) | 5/27/26 3:30 PM

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.

**Want an adventure but don't know where?**  
[Follow us on Instagram](http://instagram.com/ilpadventure) — we post our favorite spots around the world!

## ** 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](https://travel.state.gov/en/passports/apply/help.html) 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](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/apply-in-person.html) 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](https://blog.ilp.org/cheapest-places-to-buy-your-passport-photos))
- 5. Be ready to pay the passport fee—[check here for pricing updates](https://travel.state.gov/en/passports/apply/help/fees.html#accordion-4e8cbc5380-item-8defbfa84b) 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 ](https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/)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.](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html) 

### 4. Track Your Passport Status

After 7-10 business days, you can[ track your application's status right here.](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/after/status.html)

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 ](https://blog.ilp.org/topic/travel-tips)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](http://www.ilp.org/countries/), and can give you tips on how to pay for a semester abroad — we have tons of fundraising tips and discounts. 

 

[View full post](https://blog.ilp.org/how-to-apply-for-a-passport)

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