How to Get a Passport

How to get a Passport

from USPS website

First-Time Passports (processing time 6-8 weeks; allow 3 months just to be safe)

Step 1: Start Early - Gather Documents

Apply for your passport several months before your trip. First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you.

· Application forms (unsigned)

· Proof of identity document and a photocopy of the front and back (old passport, current driver’s license) Other documents in combination: Social Security card, credit card, employer ID and a witness identifying the individual.

· Proof of U.S. Citizenship document and a photocopy of the front and back (usually a birth certificate)

· Passport fees: $110 for passport + $25 USPS fee + $15 USPS photo fee = $150

Teens age 16 and 17

A parent may appear with you, or you will need a signed statement of consent from a parent (or both parents if possible). The statement should be accompanied by a photocopy of that parent’s ID (passport or driver’s license).

Children under age 16:

Children's passport applications for minors under 16, must be accompanied by proof of identity for the parents in lieu of proof of the child's identity. Proof of relationship between the child and her parents or guardian, in the form of a birth certificate, adoption decree or court order, also must be presented. If both parents are not present when the child's application is submitted, proof of sole guardianship or a notarized statement from the absent parent granting permission for a passport to be issued also must accompany the application.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what documents you need.

1. Complete your Form DS-11 Application for U.S.Passport on the State Department website.

2. Print your completed application.

DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION. A Postal employee must witness your signature.

3. Have a passport photo taken. NOTE: Many Post Offices with passport services can also take your photo. Call to confirm your Post Office takes photos.

4. Photocopy your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.

5. Calculate your fees.

o Post Offices accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for Post Office acceptance fees.

o State Department fees are mailed with your application. You can pay with a personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's check, or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State."

Step 3: Find a Post Office

Post Offices have set hours for passport services. Many require an appointment. Use the Find USPS Locations tool to find the nearest Post Office offering passport services.

1. Go to Find USPS Locations.

2. Select Passports from Location Types.

3. Enter a ZIP Code™ or address.

4. Select a mileage range.

5. Click Refine search to select services such as walk-in, appointment, or photos.

6. Click Search.

From Florence:

Veneta Post Office

25043 Dunham Avenue

Veneta, OR 97487

Passport walk-in hours M-F 9-12 and 1-5

Passport photo hours: M-F 9-12 and 1-3

Coos Bay Post Office

470 Golden Avenue

Coos Bay, OR 97420

Passport Appointment hours: M-F 9-2

Passport Photo hours: M-F 9-2

About 10 days after you have completed the application process, you can check the status of your application online by going to this website: https://passportstatus.state.gov/.