A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies your identity. In addition, it’s a document that requests another government to allow you to visit their country and be afforded assistance and protection. In the United States, US pass ports are issued by the US government through the State Department.

When Is It Needed

The first thing to know is why we must have a passport. A passport is necessary when travelling outside the US boarders. Aside from other countries, it is also required when travelling to Canada or Mexico to provide proof of your identity and citizenship. A valid passport will allow a US citizen, including children, to travel outside the “border zone”.

E-Passports

In order to acquire a passport, one needs to go through an application process. The first step is to fill in an application form. This can be found from the US Department of State as well as through online agencies. One can also download the application form from several websites. E-passports have been introduced a few years ago. These contain a computer chip and this chip is embedded in the back cover of the passport, storing the exact information contained on the passport along with a digital photograph. Anti-fraud and security features have been included. For those who still have their old passports, these are still acceptable until their validity period ends.

Who Needs A Passport

You can complete the required form after downloading and printing it. Apart from the website and the US Department State office, you can also apply at the US Post office, libraries and at online passport assistance sites. One thing to remember after filling out the form is to wait for the instruction of an official passport agent to put your signature on it. Never sign without being given the instruction and you signature must be witnessed by an agent.

Primary Documents

Although the form may be filled out online, you should submit the completed form personally to one of the certified passport agencies or facilities. This is applicable to all applicants, even minors. The list of certified facilities and passport agencies can be found online. A primary document is needed to verify a person’s identity and US citizenship. These documents may be in the form of a certified birth certificate or a previous passport.

Secondary Documents

One has to present acceptable proof of identification, ideally a government issued identity card or driver’s license. A combination of documents can be required for approval. Other commonly used documents include credit cards and social security cards.

A Personal Witness

A witness who identifies you may also be presented as a primary form of evidence. This witness must fill out an “affidavit of identifying witness” form in front of a passport renewal agent. This witness will swear to your identity so it must be someone who has known you for at least two years and also must be a US Citizen or permanent resident. You also have to provide a photocopy of your identity card along with passport photographs.