Everything You Need to Know About U.S. Passports (and the REAL ID Deadline!)
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get a Passport, Renew It & What To Do if You Lose It
As of October 2024, only 51% of Americans hold valid passports—up from 46% in 2023 and just 30% in 2008. This is a striking stat and exactly why I write about travel: to inspire more people to step outside their hometown bubbles and experience the world.
A valid U.S. passport is critical for any trip out of the United States. Surprisingly, even seasoned travelers have found themselves in a passport panic, realizing it's expired right before going on a trip or even losing it mid-trip.
Here's your comprehensive guide to all things U.S. passport: how to get one, renew it, what to do if you lose it—and the REAL ID deadline you need to keep on your radar.
Getting a U.S. Passport for the First Time
You must apply in person if this is your first passport—or your child's. Here's what to do:
✅ STEP 1: Gather Your Documents
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: certified birth certificate
Government-issued photo ID: driver's license + a photocopy of that ID (front and back)
A passport photo: 2x2 inches; specific rules apply—get it done at a pharmacy or shipping store to be safe (note: this is the one time where you shouldn’t smile in a photo!)
✅ STEP 2: Fill Out Form DS-11
Important: Don't sign it until you're instructed to do so at your appointment! You can fill it out online and print it here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.htm
✅ STEP 3: Make an Appointment at an Acceptance Facility
This includes many post offices, clerks of court, and public libraries. You'll apply in person and pay two fees:
Application fee: payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Must be paid by check or money order
Execution fee: paid to the facility accepting your application. Payments methods vary by location but most post offices accept credit/debit cards, checks, or money orders. Some locations do not accept cash, so call ahead to confirm.
Find a location near you here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport.html
Processing Time:
As of Spring 2025, routine processing takes 4–6 weeks, and expedited service (for an extra $60) takes 2–3 weeks. Need it even faster? You can visit a passport agency with proof of imminent travel (within 14 days).
For more details, visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html
Renewing Your Passport
Renewing is easier if you meet the following criteria:
Your current passport is undamaged
Issued when you were age 16 or older
Issued in the last 15 years
Issued in your current name (or you can document your name change)
If you qualify, you can renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82. Send it with your old passport, a new passport photo, and payment. Depending on whether you're requesting routine or expedited service, you'll need to mail it to the address on the form.
Access the form and instructions here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html
Pro Tip:
Renew at least 9 months before your passport expires as many countries won't let you enter if your passport is going to expire within 6 months of arrival. This is super important to check before you depart on your trip!
Lost or Stolen Passport? Don't Panic—Act Fast!
Here's what to do if your passport is lost or stolen in the U.S. or abroad:
Report It Immediately. Fill out the Form DS-64 to report it lost or stolen. You can find the form here:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/lost-stolen.html
Replace It. If you're stateside, you'll need to apply in person with Form DS-11 and follow the steps as if it were your first passport. If you're overseas, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate ASAP—they can often issue an emergency passport to get you home.
Pro Tip: Keep a photocopy (or a secure digital photo) of your passport ID page. It will make the replacement process much smoother!
REAL ID Deadline: May 7, 2025
REAL ID is a federal requirement affecting domestic air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, every U.S. traveler 18 or older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID (like a valid passport) to board domestic flights.
A REAL ID usually has a star in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state-issued ID. If yours doesn't, visit your DMV with the required documents (proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of residence) to upgrade.
Learn more at the Department of Homeland Security's REAL ID page here: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
Final Tips From The Gomes Guide
Check your passport's expiration date now—especially if you've got summer or holiday travel on the books!
Traveling with kids? Remember, their passports are only valid for 5 years, not 10.
Passports are powerful—they're not just for international travel but also get you through TSA if you don't have a REAL ID yet.
Make copies (digital and paper) before you travel. Store one in your luggage and provide another with a trusted friend or family member.
Review my list of 12 Essential Tips for International Travel to ensure you have all of your travel ducks in a row.
Consider this your nudge to check, renew, or finally apply for a passport—and maybe even knock out that REAL ID while you're at it!
Happy Travels, Shannon
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