Passports are internationally recognized travel documents that verify the identity and nationality of their bearers. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave foreign countries. The United States Department of State (DOS) has the only authority to grant, issue, or verify United States passports, and does so through the Passport Services Office of its Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA). This office provides information and services to American citizens about obtaining, replacing, or correcting/changing a passport. To obtain a passport for the first time, you are required to apply in person at any of the over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States. Except for certain circumstances, U.S. passports can be renewed by mail. You must provide certain supporting documents and two recent photographs of yourself when you apply or renew, so you should review the applicable requirements. Application forms can be completed online using the Passport Application Wizard, but must be printed prior to submission. As of February 2008, the United States has been issuing both the traditional passport book, and a limited use passport card. You may obtain either one or both, depending on your travel needs. Additional information on passports is available through the National Passport Information Center (NPIC), or by choosing one of the following topics: |
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