How to get your International USA Passport for Travel, Business and Fun.

Here’s the no-nonsense, step-by-step for a U.S. passport—plus the part most folks forget: yes, you must submit your original citizenship document (or a certified copy) for first-time applications, and the government mails it back to you separately a few weeks later.

First-time passport (Form DS-11) — apply​

1. Fill out DS-11 and print single-sided. Don’t sign until the agent tells you to. You can request a book, a card, or both. Travel.gov
2. Gather evidence of U.S. citizenship: typically an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, plus a photocopy. (A naturalization certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad also works.) Photocopies must be B/W, 8.5x11, single-sided. eFormsTravel.gov
3. Bring photo ID (e.g., driver’s license) and a photocopy of the front/back. Travel.gov
4. Get a compliant 2x2 photo. (Post offices and many acceptance facilities can take it on site.) USPS
5. Pay the fees (application fee + $35 execution fee for DS-11). Use the State Dept fee info/calculator for the latest totals. Travel.gov
6. Submit everything in person at a passport acceptance facility (post office, clerk of court, library, etc.). Make an appointment if needed. IAFDBUSPS Tools
7. Track status online after you apply. Travel.gov

Get the big book...many pages and the Passport Card...

Renewing an adult passport (Form DS-82) —​

1. Confirm you’re eligible to renew (undamaged passport, issued when age 16+, issued within last 15 years, etc.). Travel.gov
2. Fill out DS-82, include your most recent passport, a new photo, any name-change document if applicable, and payment. Mail it to the address on the form. Travel.goveForms
3. You cannot submit DS-82 at an acceptance facility; they shouldn’t charge the $35 execution fee for renewals by mail. Travel.gov
4. If the State Department’s online renewal is open to you, you do not mail in your old passport. (Availability and rules can change—check the page.) Travel.gov

“Do I have to surrender my originals?” — Yes, here’s how returns work​

• First-time (DS-11): You submit an original or certified citizenship document. The State Department mails your new passport and your citizenship evidence in separate envelopes; the evidence typically arrives up to four weeks after the passport. eFormsTravel.gov
• Renewal (DS-82): You mail your most recent passport. In most cases, they return your old passport (often canceled) up to four weeks after the new one. Travel.gov

Timing (as of Aug 22, 2025)​

• Routine: ~4–6 weeks processing (plus mailing time).
• Expedited: ~2–3 weeks processing (+$60; plus mailing).
  Always factor in shipping to/from the agency. Travel.gov

Need it fast?​

• Under ~2–3 weeks until travel? Don’t use an acceptance facility—make an appointment at a passport agency/center instead. Life-or-death and urgent travel options are outlined here. Travel.gov+1

Quick extras​

• Find a nearby acceptance facility (and which ones take photos). IAFDB
• USPS appointment scheduler for acceptance facilities. USPS Tools
• If you can’t locate citizenship evidence, you can request a file search with your application. Travel.gov
• Kids under 16 must apply in person with both parents/guardians (Form DS-11, extra documentation). Travel.gov

Tip from Flynn...get an underarm sling for your passport and wallet. A micro phone battery bank helps too.

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[Flynn]

I also have a money belt, keep $300 in $100 bills and copies of all my papers in my belt.
What if you are held up?
Also, in the back of my phone I keep cash and a little currency conversion chart for reference and my In Case of Emergency ICE info.
What if you pass out...it's right there.