How to apply for a passport and how long it takes to receive one in the USA

Maybe you want to spend some time abroad?

A US passport provides access to 186 destinations.

And more US residents are seeking to obtain documents, to the point that the US State Department is expanding the number of passport agencies across the country and allowing online passport renewals.

How many US residents have passports?

In 1990, only five percent of Americans had a passport. Today, 48% of the population does this.

In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. Department of State issued more than 24 million passport books and cards. This is more than has ever been released.

How to get a passport

The U.S. State Department recently announced it would create six new passport agencies in Salt Lake City, Utah; Kansas City, Missouri; Orlando, Florida; Charlotte, North Carolina; San Antonio, Texas; and Cincinnati, Ohio. This will increase the network of centers throughout the country to 35.

Passport agencies provide same-day services for those who need passports in as little as 14 calendar days.

You can also apply for a passport at 7,400 post offices, libraries and other government offices. More than 99% of Americans now live within 25 miles of such a facility that accepts applications.

Which passport agency is closest to Louisville, KY?

The Cincinnati, Ohio, location will be the closest when it opens.

How long does it take to get a passport?

Passport centers provide same-day services to those requiring urgent travel to a foreign country within the next 14 calendar days.

Expedited service requires proof of international travel planned within two weeks.

Travelers who do not require immediate passport services can apply at one of our 7,400 passport acceptance locations.

Do I need an appointment to apply for a passport?

Pre-registration is required for passport centers.

Some reception points accept entrance tickets. Call ahead to see if an appointment is needed.

Requirements for applying for your first passport

To apply for your first adult passport:

Visit travel.state.gov.

You must apply in person if any of the following apply:

• You are applying for your first US passport book or card.

• You are applying with a child under 16 years of age.

• Your last US passport was issued when you were under 16 years old.

• Your last US passport was lost, stolen or damaged.

• Your last US passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

If none of the above applies, visit renew by mail.

Find the form to fill out and print it using form filling tool.

Others are reading: Thinking about moving to Canada after Election Day? What US citizens should know first

How long does it take to get a new passport?

Four to six weeks is the typical processing time.

How to renew your passport online?

The US State Department recently began allowing online passport renewals. Visit travel.state.gov renew online.

For more information visit travel.state.gov.

Contact IndyStar reporter Cheryl W. Jackson at [email protected] or 317-444-6264. Follow her on X: @cherylvjackson.

This article originally appeared on the Indianapolis Star: Getting a US passport just got easier. How to apply; renew online