Online Passport Application

Obtaining the application online is by far the easiest way and for those who are more computer-savvy, completing the application online is recommended. Once completed, the application should be printed out and submitted in-person to the proper agent in order to be processed. Additional documentation must be provided with the application.

The supporting documentation provided with a United States passport application is intended to verify the applicant's identity. They include evidence of U.S. citizenship and present identification. A birth certificate will fulfill the first category and a driver's license will fulfill the second.

The birth certificate needs to be one that has a seal on it from the city, county or state of birth of the applicant. The issuing agency will not accept any other type including certified copies and this can easily be obtained from the local courthouse records division from where they were born. The driver's license or a state issued ID card, if that is what the applicant has, must be no less than 6 months old or it will not be accepted on its own.

Some applicants may not possess any of this primary identification. In this case, Secondary identification should be provided in combination and may include a Social Security card, identification card provided by an employer, library card, and credit card. A witness may also present him or herself and complete an affidavit form. The witness must have known the applicant for at least two years and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The documentation requirements are listed on the government and service provider Web sites. There are many alternatives if the first set of requested documentation is not available, so read carefully. These Web sites also list the various fees involved for passport processing and all additional fees charged by private service companies. Compare private companies in order to find a reputable one that offers low fees.

The applicant should then make an in-person visit to the post office or passport agency for application verification, if required, and then package all documents and sent them off for processing. The package should include two photos that will be used in the new passport. These photos must adhere to certain specifications, so check the provider or government Web site for guidance.

Using the online application saves the applicant a trip to the post office to obtain the form. The government and private passport processing services provide this application on their Web sites so there is no need to leave home in order to obtain it. The processing services have dedicated customer relations personnel that will field any questions or problems encountered while completing the application. Using such a service for United States passport application or renewal will ensure speedy processing with a smile.