There are several locations where you can apply for a U.S. passport in person, including U.S. Department of State Passport Agencies, U.S. Passport Acceptance Facilities, and U.S. Passport Agency Regional Offices.
U.S. Department of State Passport Agencies:
Passport agencies are the best option for those who need their passports quickly due to an emergency or urgent travel plans. There are 26 passport agencies located throughout the United States, and they can issue a passport in as little as 24 hours. However, appointments are required, and fees are higher than at other passport acceptance facilities.
To find the nearest passport agency and schedule an appointment, you can visit the Department of State’s website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html.
U.S. Passport Acceptance Facilities:
Passport acceptance facilities are located at post offices, courthouses, libraries, and other government buildings throughout the United States. These facilities can accept passport applications and supporting documents, including photographs and fees. However, they do not issue passports on-site.
To find the nearest passport acceptance facility, you can visit the Department of State’s website at https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/DefaultForm.aspx.
U.S. Passport Agency Regional Offices:
Regional passport agencies are located in several major cities throughout the United States, and they can issue passports on-site for those who need their passports quickly due to an emergency or urgent travel plans. However, appointments are required, and fees are higher than at other passport acceptance facilities.
To find the nearest passport agency regional office and schedule an appointment, you can visit the Department of State’s website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/regional-agencies.html.
When you visit a passport acceptance facility, you will need to bring the following documents:
- A completed DS-11 passport application form. This form is available online at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html.
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship. This can include a birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, a naturalization certificate, or a certificate of citizenship.
- A valid form of photo identification, such as a driver’s license or government ID.
- A passport photo. This must meet certain requirements, including a white or off-white background, and can be taken at many passport acceptance facilities for an additional fee.
It is important to note that fees for passport applications vary depending on the type of passport and processing time. Expedited processing and overnight delivery are available for an additional fee.
I hope this information is helpful to you as you begin the process of applying for a U.S. passport in person. Please note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the passport acceptance facility or agency you choose. For more detailed information, I encourage you to visit the website of the U.S. Department of State or consult with a passport acceptance facility or agency.
In addition to the standard U.S. passport, there are several specialty passports that may be issued for specific purposes or situations.
- Official Passport: An official passport is issued to U.S. government employees who are traveling abroad for official business. These passports are also issued to dependents of government employees who are accompanying them on official travel.
- Diplomatic Passport: A diplomatic passport is issued to diplomats and other individuals who are representing the U.S. government abroad. These passports are also issued to the immediate family members of these individuals.
- Emergency Passport: An emergency passport is issued to U.S. citizens who have a life-or-death emergency, such as a serious illness, injury, or death of a family member, and need to travel abroad immediately. These passports are issued on a case-by-case basis and are only valid for a limited period.
- Passport Card: A passport card is a wallet-sized card that can be used for land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. However, it cannot be used for air travel or travel to other countries.
- Passport Renewal for Minors: Minors under the age of 16 are issued a passport valid for 5 years, as opposed to the standard 10-year validity period for adults. Additionally, both parents or legal guardians must consent to the issuance of the passport for the minor.
- Second Valid Passport: A second valid passport may be issued to U.S. citizens who frequently travel internationally and need to apply for visas or travel to countries that are hostile to the United States. This allows them to keep their primary passport at home and travel with their second passport.
It is important to note that the process for obtaining a specialty passport may differ from that of a standard passport. For example, the requirements and documents needed for an official or diplomatic passport may vary from those for a standard passport. Additionally, the fees for specialty passports may differ from those for a standard passport.
I hope this information is helpful to you as you consider which type of passport may be best for your needs. For more detailed information on specialty passports, I encourage you to visit the website of the U.S. Department of State or consult with a passport acceptance facility or agency.