Step 1: Get your passport photo.

For all passport applications, you will need two 2”x2” passport photos taken.

If you’re wondering where you can get a passport photo taken, AAA has you covered. With competitive pricing and a streamlined process, we’ll have you in and out in no time. Unless you decide to stick around for AAA’s countless other travel services, such as: ordering foreign currency, buying trip insurance or speaking with a AAA Travel agent to start planning your next big trip!

 Schedule a passport photo appointment at your local AAA Travel Store.

Step 2: Fill out your U.S. passport application or renewal form.

To continue the passport application or renewal process, you need to complete and submit the correct form. You will need a different form based on different needs:

· New passport application (first-time applicant): DS-11

· Children under 16 years of age: DS-11

· Children 16-17 years of age (only valid for five years): DS-11

· Passport Renewal: DS-82

· Lost or Stolen: DS-64 and report immediately.

You can print your application form off travel.state.gov or ask your local AAA Travel store for a form.

Step 3: Prepare your supporting documents.

Have your supporting documents ready for submission. You can’t get your passport processed without proof of citizenship. Examples of these are:

· Your birth certificate

· Full valid U.S. passport (if renewing)

· In some cases, a birth abstract. 

· Certificate of Naturalization

· Certificate of Citizenship 

In addition to proof of citizenship, you must provide a valid form of photo ID. It must be a physical copy, not digital. You will also need to submit your former passport (undamaged) for renewal.

Step 4: Make an appointment with a passport service location.

Finding a location that processes a passport might be easier (and closer!) than you think. Many post offices, clerks of court, public libraries and other state, county and municipal government offices can accept passport applications for regular and expedited processing times. Some are even available for walk-ins – no appointment necessary!

*For emergency, you must contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs to apply. Processes take 72 hours (within three business days) to complete.

Step 5: Pay the passport application fees.

This isn’t the most fun step in the application process, but it is necessary. Paying passport application and renewal fees are required if you want the application processed. While pricing varies based on timing, shipping and type of passport, you can always expect to spend upwards of $100. 

Go to Travel.state.gov and use the passport calculator to factor in all variables to know what to expect before you pay.

Step 6: Play the waiting game… or not!

Prepare to wait, wait, wait on your passport. Processing times for passports may still be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what to expect in wait times:

· Normal processing: 8-11 weeks

· Expedite processing: 5-7 weeks

 

 

 

Traveling soon and need your passport fast? Receive exclusive AAA rates on expedited passport courier service with RushMyPassport. This saves you time and a trip to the passport office with a personalized application review that catches common mistakes and speeds up processing times.

But wait, we offer expedited services for Travel Visas, too! Through RushMyPassport, you can double-check if a visa is required for your next trip, review country-specific requirements and get AAA exclusive rates with faster processing times.

Step 7: Receive your new passport!

You’ve finally got it! Your passport should arrive at your home or PO address for you.

For both new applicants and renewals, don’t panic if you receive your new passport and citizenship documents (old passport, birth certificate, etc.) at different times. That’s common. You should receive these within ten business days of each other. 

For more information regarding passport applications and international guidelines, please visit travel.state.gov.