Introduction
Getting a passport is an essential component of international travel, even if you live in Illinois. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad or need to renew an expired passport, this step-by-step guide will provide you with all the information you need to get a passport in Illinois.
Step-by-step guide
If you want to apply for a passport, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain the correct application form
The first step in the process is to obtain the correct application form. You can download the form online or pick up a copy at your nearest U.S. Department of State acceptance facility.
2. Fill out the application form
Once you have obtained the application form, fill it out completely and accurately. Make sure that you sign and date the form.
3. Gather necessary documents for the application
Next, gather all the necessary documents for the application, including:
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of identity
- Two passport photos
4. Schedule an appointment at an acceptance facility
After gathering all necessary documents, you need to schedule an appointment at your nearest acceptance facility. You can schedule an appointment online or by phone.
5. Attend appointment and submit documents
When attending your appointment, make sure to bring all necessary documents and the required payment. You will undergo an interview and have your picture taken before the application is submitted.
6. Track the status of the application
After submitting an application, you can track its status online. It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive a passport through regular processing, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks.
Cost analysis
Getting a passport in Illinois has costs that include the following:
- Passport book fees: $110 for first-time applicants or $170 for renewal
- Additional fees for expedited processing: $60
- Travel expenses for applicants who don’t live near an acceptance facility
Rush processing
You can request expedited service under certain circumstances, including:
- Emergencies that require international travel within two weeks
- Urgent travel plans that require international travel within four weeks
To request expedited service, you must pay an additional $60 fee and submit the request at an acceptance facility or through a registered courier service.
Required documents
To apply for a passport, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
- Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or state ID card
- Two passport photos, taken within the past six months
If you are applying for a minor, additional documentation is required, including the minor’s birth certificate and written consent from both parents or legal guardians.
Scheduling an appointment
You can schedule an appointment at an acceptance facility online or by phone. Keep in mind that appointment availability can vary, so it is best to schedule an appointment well in advance. If you need to reschedule an appointment, simply log in to your account and make the necessary changes.
Getting a replacement
If your passport is lost or stolen, or if it has expired, you will need to get a replacement. The following are the steps:
- Required documents for replacing a lost or stolen passport
- Completed DS-64 form
- Completed DS-11 form
- Two passport photos
- Proof of identity and citizenship
- Police report (if applicable)
- Required documents for renewing an expired passport
- Completed DS-82 form
- Your old passport
- Two passport photos
- It takes 4-6 weeks to receive a replacement passport through regular processing, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks. Costs associated with getting a replacement passport include the passport book fee, expedited fee, and travel expenses.
Applying for minors
If you are applying for a passport on behalf of a minor, you will need to provide additional documentation, including:
- The minor’s birth certificate
- Written consent from both parents or legal guardians
- Both parents or legal guardians must be present during the application process
Conclusion
Getting a passport in Illinois is easy if you know the right steps. Make sure to gather all necessary documents, schedule an appointment, and track the status of the application. Whether you’re traveling abroad for work or leisure, be sure to apply for and protect your passport correctly.
