How to Get Your Passport without Going Postal?

Published Saturday, March 15th 2014 - Updated Saturday, March 15th 2014
Categories
Travel Tips
Obtaining your passport can be a frustrating experience of filling out applications, finding/locating personal documents, paying fees, and waiting, and that's if you don't need your passport in a hurry. If you need it right away then you very well could go postal.

So, here are my Three Tips to help you get your passport without going postal.

Tip #1 - Avoid the Post Office

Post Office's are where people go to submit their application for a passport. Generally, you need an appointment to do this and thus no same day service. If you're in a major metropolitan area or close to one then look for an alternate Passport Acceptance Facility such as the one in Chandler, AZ at the City Clerk's office. This is a walk-in facility with no appointment necessary. Sign in by 4pm M-F and you'll be able to process your passport application. And the people there are nice!

Tip #2 - Be Prepared

Obviously you only want to go the facility once so be prepared with the right documents.
  1. Complete the application. It's best to complete the DS-11 application online and print the form.  It will be neat and thorough.
  2. Provide evidence of US citizenship. For most of us that will be a Certified Birth Certificate issued from a city, county, or state. This is your actual birth certificate not a photo copy. This will be mailed with your application and returned to you when your passport is issued.
  3. Have a 2x2 inch Passport photo. This is important so check out these Photo Guidelines.
  4. Present Valid Identification. Make a large copy of your photo id such as drivers license. The clerk will want to look at it as well so be sure to have it with you. Check this list of valid Proof of Identity.
  5. Traveling in a hurry? You'll need proof of your travels. Otherwise, you don't need to provide any itinerary.
  6. Pay the Fees. Credit cards are not accepted for any fees paid to the US Department of State. You'll need a personal check or money order/cashier's check for the fee for your passport. The other local fees for processing can generally be paid with cash, check or money order. Check your facility before heading down.

Tip #3 - Don't wait until the last minute

I've talked with people in a panic who've sent off for their passport, and they're traveling within days and they still haven't received their passport. Give yourself plenty of time to get your passport. Even if you don't think you're going to need it for awhile why not get one now. 

If you should need to get a passport right away; you're traveling in 4 weeks or less time, then I would recommend a third party company such as American Passport Now which is a Cruise Planners preferred vendor. You will pay extra fees for their expedited services, but you can get RUSH, SAME DAY Passport services if you absolutely need it. Look for the Passport Link right on our website at www.arizonacruiseandtravel.com. 

Note: This post only addresses Passports. If you're traveling abroad to certain countries you may be required to obtain a VISA as well. Our third party company, American Passport Now, can assist with your Visa needs as well.

Author Richard Morris

Kristin and Richard Morris are the owners of Arizona Cruise and Travel in Chandler, AZ, a Cruise Planners® franchise. They want to travel more and help others do the same. ACT on your travel dreams today! Call us at (602) 626-3740 or toll free at (888) 419-6640. Also, visit their website at www.arizonacruiseandtravel.com and play around. Heck, you might as well search for your next cruise because you know you want to.

Richard and Kristin also own Southwest Premier Insurance Agency, LLC, a full service, independent insurance agency in Chandler, AZ. 

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