Do you have dreams and goals of traveling next year?! Getting your passport can seem overwhelming when you look at the steps it takes on different websites. We’ve created this easy step by step to help!
Give yourself plenty of time and just tackle the next thing. You’ll have your passport before you know it!
Gather Required Documents
Before applying, make sure you have:
– Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate)[1][6]
– Valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or state ID)[6]
– One passport photo (2″ x 2″)[6]
– Completed DS-11 application form (unsigned)[4]
Choose an Application Method
You have two main options:
1. Post Office: Many Arizona Post Offices offer passport services by appointment[3][4].
2. Passport Acceptance Facilities: Various locations in Arizona, such as
– City Clerk’s Offices (e.g., Chandler, Scottsdale)[5][8]
– County Clerk of Superior Court offices (e.g., Coconino County)[7]
Schedule an appointment
Most locations require appointments:
– Use the USPS online scheduler for Post Office appointments[4]
– Use city-specific online schedulers for local government offices[5][8]
Prepare Fees
You’ll need to pay two separate fees:
1. Application fee (paid to U.S. Department of State):
– Passport Book: $130 for adults (16+), $100 for children under 16
– Passport Card: $30 for adults, $15 for children[6][7]
2. Execution fee: $35 (paid to the acceptance facility)[6][7]
Submit Your Application
At your appointment:
– Bring all required documents
– Sign the application in front of the acceptance agent
– Pay the required fees
– Submit your application package[4][6]
Processing Time and Tracking
– Standard processing takes about 6-8 weeks
– Expedited service (for an additional $60) takes about 2-3 weeks[7]
– You can track your application status online after about 2 weeks[6]
Remember that processing times may vary, so it’s best to apply well before your planned travel. If you need it urgently, you may need to visit a regional passport agency, such as the Western Passport Center in Tucson, AZ[1].
Citations:
[1] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies/western.html
[2] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html
[3] https://about.usps.com/news/state-releases/az/2018/az_2018_0309.htm
[4] https://www.usps.com/international/passports.htm
[5] https://www.chandleraz.gov/government/departments/city-clerks-office/passport-services
[6] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html
[7] https://www.coconino.az.gov/135/Passport-Information
[8] https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/passports
