When obtaining a new U.S. Passport, the most important step is accurately completing the application. This first step to international travel must be completed thoroughly. The Federal government requires identification information about the applicant, and uses the information gathered to determine the traveler’s intention.

Choosing the right form is to make application is important. First time applicants use the “DS-11″ Form. Applicants for renewals by mail utilize the “DS-82.” Instructions to the “DS-11″ require that this form only be used by first time applicants, so renewals should not be filed using the aDS-11.a

To amend or validate a passport, applicants use aDS-19.a Any changes or modifications to an existing passport are represented on this form. Supplemental forms can be used in addition to those previously listed above. For example, if a passport is lost or stolen, an applicant must submit a “DS-64″ in addition to the “DS-11″ Form. Another supplemental form is required when applying on behalf of a minor under the age of 14, which requires not only submission of the “DS-11,a but also “DS-3053.”

The time taken to obtain a U.S. passport is normally two weeks. However, it may take a little longer during spring and summer, as they are the busiest periods. Also with the U.S. passport application, it is required for the applicant to submit proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, two passport-sized photos and the applicable fee to obtain a U.S. passport

For U.S. adults, a passport will cost $97, while minors applying under the age of 16 must pay of $82. When considering the cost benefit analysis, this is a minor fee when you gain the freedom to enjoy international travel. U.S. citizens are required to have a passport whenever they leave the U.S. The passport is your proof citizenship as certified and issued by the Department of State.

You must apply for a new passport if you have never had one, your last passport has been expired for more than 12 years, or your current passport has been lost damaged or stolen. When applying for the first time, the applicant must apply in person. The right to travel internationally is a benefit and privilege to U.S. citizenship, but even within the last century, people have been denied that right due to political affiliations. During the Communist Scare, communist sympathists, such as Paul Robeson and W. E. B. Dubois, were denied U.S. passports. The U.S. Department of State maintains that our government has the right to screen people and revoke their passports in necessary situations. Even today, U.S. passports to Libya, Lebanon, and Iraq are still denied.

As security safeguards have become more stringent, the U.S. passport has started including biometric data as to the applicant’s individualized traits like fingerprints, retinal scans, birthmarks and tattoos for enhanced security features. These advances have made travel safer for those seeking to travel all over the world.

A more technological revamp of the passport is also be considered called the ae-passport.a This modernized citizenship document will include a new design and more stringent security safeguards. The embedded computer chip will contain important identification data, and will bring better opportunities and significant positive changes to citizens of the U.S. when traveling internationally.