Whether it’s for business, honeymoon, or family emergency, many of us will find ourselves making travel plans that require crossing the US border A valid US passport is required to travel even as close as Mexico and Canada. The idea of obtaining a passport may seem daunting, but the process can be quite simple if you are well informed of what is required of you.
There are dozens of passport offices in the Houston area where you can apply for a passport with no hassle, but make sure you’ve familiarized yourself with the information below.
1. Do I need a passport?
If you are a US citizen (regardless of age) and planning to travel internationally, you will need a passport to exit and re-enter the United States. This includes traveling to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
2. Do I have to apply in person?
Yes, you must apply in person if:
- You are a first time applicant
- You are under 16 years of age
- Your previous passport was issued when you were under the age of 16.
- Your passport was lost or stolen
- Your name has changed since your previous passport was issued
3. Where do I go to apply for a passport?
Applications for US passports can be obtained at more than 25 locations in Harris County alone. Many of these authorized stations are post offices. For a complete directory of passport offices, visit the US Department of State. You can also find applications at the city clerk’s office or through travel agencies.
4. Do I need to show any documentation?
Applicants must provide a Social Security number, photo ID, and proof of birth. These can take any of the following forms:
- Previous US passport
- Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- Certificate of naturalization
5. How much does a passport cost?
For an adult passport and passport card (the card is not valid for international air travel), the fee is $ 165. For an adult passport without the card, the fee is $ 135. There are various other fee amounts depending on your specific circumstance.
6. How are the payment methods accepted?
- Credit card (VISA MasterCard, American Express, Discover) and debit / check cards
- Check (personal, certified, cashiers, travelers) payable to the «Department of State»
- Money orders (postal, international, currency exchange) and bank drafts payable to the “Department of State”
- Cash (only in some facilities)
7. Can I use my own photo?
It is strongly recommended that you use a passport photo service, but if you prefer to submit your own photo, it must be:
- In color
- Printed on photographic paper.
- 2 x 2″
- Cropped so head measures 1 “to 1 3/8” from chin to head
- Taken in the last 6 months
- Taken in front of a solid white or off-white background
- Taken directly in front of the camera
- Taken with a neutral face with both eyes open and visible
- Taken in the clothes you normally wear
8. When will I receive my passport?
Approximately 4 to 6 weeks from the moment your request is received. Applications can be tracked online 5-7 days after receipt.
9. I need to travel before that. Can I rush the process?
Yes, there is a way to receive your passport within 2-3 weeks of application, but you will have to pay an additional $ 60 plus overnight fees. When mailing your application form, write the word “EXPEDITED” as clearly as possible on the outside of the envelope.
10. How long is my passport valid?
If your passport was issued when you were over 16 years old, it will be valid for 10 years. If you were under 16 years old, your passport will be valid for 5 years. It is better to renew your passport 9 months before it expires. Some airlines will require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your travel date.
11. My passport has expired. Can I renew it by mail?
Yes, you can send your renewal form by mail if the expired passport:
- Not damaged
- It aired when he was 16 years old or older.
- It was issued in the last 15 years.
- It was issued under your current name or has legal documents proving the name change
12. Either I lost my passport or someone stole it. What should I do?
Report the lost or stolen passport by calling 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 or by completing Form DS-64 online or by mailing it to:
United States Department of State
Services of
passports Lost / stolen consular passport section
1111 19th Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036
13. I still need more information.
Visit this site.
