Important changes in passport processing times and renewal requirements (updated 2007)
Due to the backlog created by the Government’s new requirements for international travel, please go to the following web page to get the latest processing times for obtaining your passport:
Processing Times
Also, according to the Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, if possible, you should renew your passport approximately nine (9) months before it expires. Some countries require that your passport be valid at least six (6) months beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. To find out if the country you are traveling to requires the 3 or 6 month validity requirement, either ask your Short’s Travel agent to check for you or you can call 1-800-688-9889. Short’s recommends that all potential international travelers take the time to re-check their passport expiration date and renew accordingly.
Where do I get a passport application?
At any Short’s Travel office, any regional passport agency, a designated Post Office or Clerk of Court. The instructions for filling it out are found on the back of the forms.
Passport applications can be filled out online or downloaded from the State Department web site (Adobe Acrobat required). All forms can be found here. Form DS-11 is for first time applications for adults and minors and Form DS-82 is for renewals only.
What is needed to obtain a passport?
- Proof of U.S. citizenship: an expired passport or a certified birth certificate
- Photographs: two identical photographs, 2 inches by 2 inches, full face with head image 1 inch to 1 3/8 inch high
- Proof of Identity, such as a valid drivers license
- To expedite renewals, you must provide an actual ticket copy or a letter from the applicant’s employer if traveling on business
What is the cost?
- Adult fee: $67 passport application fee plus a $30 execution fee for a total of $97
- Under 17 years of age: $52 passport application fee plus a $30 execution fee for a total of $82
- Passport renewal fee: $67
- Expedited Service: A $60 fee in addition to the routine passport fees
The passport application fee includes the $12.00 Security Surcharge, which became effective March 8, 2005.
Then what do I do?
If you’ve never had a passport: Take your completed unsigned application form, your fees, photographs, a certified birth certificate and proof of identity to the passport office at a designated Post Office or the Clerk of Courts. Your application must be signed in front of the customs officer. You may pay by cash, personal check or money order.
If it is a passport renewal: You may pick up and submit applications by mail. The two photographs and your most recent passport must be enclosed, as well as the renewal fee of $67, payable by personal check or money order. You must sign the renewal application, but the signature does not have to be witnessed.
How long is a passport valid?
- Adults (17 years of age or older) – 10 yearss
- Minors (younger than 17 years of age) – 5 years
How do I report a lost or stolen passport?
If it is stolen in the United States, immediately inform the Department of State Passport Services. This can be done at http://travel.state.gov where you can fill out and submit a DS-64 form. Or you can telephone Passport Services at 202-647-0518 or at your nearest passport agency.
If you are outside of the United States, report to the nearest American consulate. The process will be expedited if you have a photocopy of the identification page and two passport size photos.
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