Last year in February, I was blessed to obtain my passport. This summer, the plan is to study abroad, so look for a series on my experience this summer. I am here to spread the knowledge and encourage people to go ahead and apply for theirs. You never know what impromptu trips you, friends, or family may want to take. Here are the steps that you should take in order to secure your passport.
Preparation:
Each place is likely different. If you go online, there should be a website that holds information related to required documents and funds to bring in order to apply for the passport. Pay close attention to what form of payments they accept for the application. Usually there are two options for each. I recall bringing cash for my passport picture, and then checks for everything else. I also had to bring a few forms of identification. Start gathering those items. I filled out my application ahead of time. I got my application from the local courthouse.
Applying:
I went to the courthouse to apply. If you search online, there are other places authorized to assist you in applying for your passport. I took my picture first. They gave me a copy of the picture to take home, I guess just in case I intend on using it in the future. Then, I went up to a window where the lady took my forms of identification, looked through my application, took the payment(s), etc. It takes 6+ weeks to receive the passport, I believe. There are options to expedite the process if needed, and they tend to be more costly. I chose the regular option, as I was in no rush. I believe that it cost around $125 to get my passport. It was definitely less than $200. It should come in the mail at the address you gave them/put on the application.
I hope that this bit of information helps. I strongly encourage people to get their passports. They are good for 10 years, so you can take so many trips in that allotted time period. Go ahead and start getting your passport filled with stamps!
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