I am retired and ready to get my passport for the first-time; How do i go about doing so? The first step in getting your passport is to get a passport photo. There are many ways to do this. You can simply take your own photo or have a friend do so. If you take your own photo the
U.S. State Department says you need to meet the following basic requirements in doing so:
- Submit a color photo, taken in last 6 months
- Use a clear image of your face. Do not use filters commonly used on social media.
- Have someone else take your photo. No selfies.
- Take off your eyeglasses for your photo.
- Use a plain white or off-white background.
- Use the Department of State Photo Tool to upload your photo and crop it so it's the right size. Note: this tool is intended for cropping your photo only. After you apply, a U.S. Department of State employee will review your photo and decide if they will accept your photo. Compare your photo with examples of good photos. Submit a high resolution photo that is not blurry, grainy, or pixelated. The correct size of a passport photo is: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), Head must be between 1 -1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, Do not digitally change the photo, You cannot submit a damaged photo with holes, creases, or smudges, Have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open, Face the camera directly with full face in view, You cannot wear glasses, If you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, please include a signed note from your doctor with application, Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis, You cannot wear a uniform, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire, You cannot wear a hat or head covering, If you wear a hat or head covering for religious purposes, submit a signed statement that verifies that the hat or head covering in your photo is part of traditional religious attire worn continuously in public. If you wear a hat or head covering for medical purposes, submit a signed doctor's statement verifying the hat or head covering in your photo is used daily for medical purposes. Your full face must be visible and your hat or head covering cannot cast shadows or cover up part of your face. You cannot wear headphones or wireless hands-free devices. Permanent tattoos are acceptable for passport purposes as well.
- ...and we suggest if you have a beard or mustache that you either have the picture taken with it or if you plan on being clean-shaved on your trip that you do so prior to your photo being taken. Specifically you should do your best to look like you will look like while going through customs, etc.
As an alternative to taking your own photo many acceptance facilities such as posts offices, libraries, and local government offices will take your photo. Check the Acceptance Facility Search page to see if your local facility offers photo services.
Another alternative, in example, are places like your local CVS.
Equal to the first step mentioned above (photo), we suggest you get fully vaccinated and carry your official and original vaccination card with you. When we say fully vaccinated we mean that to include boosters and any other current requirements.
To get your passport, use the U.S. Postal Service. Call to determine where your local USPS passport location is. Not every post office provides this service. Schedule an appointment with your local post office HERE. Read about all the details about the passport process at www.usps.com/international/passports.htm and travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport.html
Can i apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time?
Resource: federalretiree.blogspot.com
How do I get a passport?, Can i apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time?,
