Applying for a passport generally takes 7-10 weeks, but faster services exist if you need to travel quickly. It is always safer to apply for a passport in advance. Although passports are mainly used for international travel, it is becoming common to need one for other purposes. Starting October 2020, TSA will require a New York enhanced driver’s license, or passport to fly domestically. The application process will change depending on how quickly you need one. Here are a few tips to help.

How to Apply In-person

To apply for a passport in New York, visit your local Acceptance Facility. This includes your local Post Office, County Clerk, or Public Library. Other resources approved by the U.S. Department of State may be senior or community centers. All official Acceptance Facilities will accept and verify documents, applicant signature and identity. This information, including the official photo, will be sealed in a legal “adjudicated envelope.” The envelope is then forwarded to the U.S. Department of State for processing. This routine service can take up to six weeks.

To apply in North Carolina, make an appointment with your local acceptance facility.

Documents You Will Need to Apply

In New York, contact your local acceptance facility for an appointment. You can complete the application form online as PDF or complete it in person at the facility. To apply, you must have your original proof of citizenship. This includes:

• U.S. Birth Certificate
• Naturalization Certificate
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Expired Passport

You will also need to present a valid form of ID, such as: 

• Valid Driver’s License
• Valid State-issued ID
• Military ID
• Expired Passport

The applicant must be present when applying. If applying for a minor’s passport, you will need consent from both parents/guardians. If one parent/guardian cannot be present, the non-applying parent must submit an original notarized consent form. Also, you must give a copy of your ID. A parent with sole custody must give the original court order. 

Most Acceptance Facilities take passport photos. Also, you can go to the nearest pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens to take yout picture.

Allow 7-10 weeks for processing and receipt of your new passport. For an extra $60 fee, a 3-5 week expedited service is available. 

Getting a New York Passport in a Rush 

For emergency processing, U.S. Department of State has 26 locations issuing same-day passports. There are two locations in the state of New York: New York City, and Buffalo. There are also locations in surrounding areas like Philadelphia, PA, and Stamford, CT.

To qualify, you must be traveling within fourteen days. You must present an official itinerary with your name, travel date, and destination. A plane ticket or hotel reservation (Canada/Mexico only) will suffice. Appointments are required and can be made online or over the phone. The Passport Agency will be unable to guarantee how soon your passport will be issued. But with the correct documentation, applicants should receive their passport in time to travel. 

To contact the Passport Agency, please call (877) 487-2778 or visit www.travel.state.gov

American Passport

Americanpassport.com is an online passport expeditor with many years of passport processing. Regardless of where you live, you can get a passport according to when you need it. This online expeditor offers rush processing so you can get a passport in a day. Also, you will have additional processing options that range from the same day and up to two weeks.

So, if you need a passport for the first time (adult or child), replace any expired, damaged, lost or stolen one, speak with the agent about the process of getting your new document.   

How Does it Work?

Select Your Passport Type

As a customer, you get to choose from a list of the passport you will apply for. For example, will you apply as a first-time applicant, for a child passport, for a passport renewal, or to replace a lost or stolen passport.

Select the Processing Option

Then, you get the processing options. Will you need the passport the same day, in 2-7 days, or 10-15 days. The choices you select will determine the price you will pay.  

Provide Your Documents

You must provide a complete application that includes the form, supporting documents, and the fees. Package all the papers and send them by UPS or FedEx using overnight shipping. Include a prepaid envelope with your address to get your new passport.

Your Return Documents

Once Americanpassport.com receives your passport, it will be forwarded to you. Any package received without a prepaid envelope must pay for the return postage. You will receive all the supporting documents in the return envelope.

Renew an Expired Passport 

To renew an expired passport, your passport must have been issued for ten years and expired for less than five years. If you were a minor when your passport was issued, you must apply for a new passport. If you meet the guidelines to apply for a renewal, you do not need to be seen in person. You will mail your current passport, passport photo, application, and your Government Fee.  

Applying for a passport in advance will save you time, stress, and money. It can also be helpful as proof of identity or citizenship. However, if you find yourself in an emergency, U.S. Department of State, or a courier service are there to help. With the correct documentation, you should be well on your way!