Applying for a U.S. passport might seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can simplify the process significantly. When planning your application, one crucial aspect to consider is payment, especially if you prefer using a money order. This guide will walk you through the process of applying for your passport, highlighting where and how you can use a Money Order For Passport fees.
Step 1: Gather Your Necessary Documents Well in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute! Start gathering your documents as soon as you have international travel plans. Passport processing times can fluctuate, so it’s always best to apply well ahead of your trip—ideally several months in advance. Check the official State Department website for the most up-to-date processing estimates. For first-time applicants, minors, and those who can’t renew by mail, applying in person at a designated location like a Post Office is often required. Before heading to your appointment, ensure you have the following:
- Form DS-11: Application for U.S. Passport (unsigned). You can complete this form online but do not sign it until instructed to do so by a postal employee.
- Proof of Identity: This could be your driver’s license, state ID, or military ID. Bring the original document and a photocopy of both the front and back.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: A birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, or Certificate of Citizenship are accepted. Again, bring the original and a photocopy of the front and back.
- Passport Photo: You’ll need one passport photo that meets specific requirements. You can often get this done at the Post Office for an additional fee, or at many pharmacies and photo studios.
- Payment for Fees: Understand the different fees involved, which we’ll detail later.
Step 2: Prepare Your Passport Application Package Meticulously
Careful preparation is key to a smooth application process. The U.S. Department of State’s website is your best resource for detailed instructions.
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Complete Form DS-11 Online: Go to the State Department’s website and fill out the Form DS-11 application.
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Print the Application: After completing it online, print out the application form. Remember, do not sign it yet.
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Get a Passport Photo: Ensure you have a passport photo that adheres to the U.S. Department of State’s guidelines.
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Photocopy Documents: Make photocopies of your proof of identity and U.S. citizenship documents as outlined in Step 1.
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Calculate Your Fees: Passport applications involve two types of fees: acceptance fees and processing fees.
- Post Office Acceptance Fees: These are paid directly to the Post Office when you submit your application in person. Post Offices typically accept credit cards, debit cards, checks, and money orders for these acceptance fees. Money orders should be made payable to “Postmaster.”
- State Department Processing Fees: These fees are sent to the U.S. Department of State along with your application package. For State Department fees, you can pay using a personal check, certified check, cashier’s check, traveler’s check, or importantly, a money order, payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Using a money order provides a secure and traceable payment method, especially if you are concerned about sending a personal check.
Step 3: Schedule Your Passport Appointment at a Post Office
Most Post Offices offering passport services require appointments. You can easily schedule one online using the Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or through a self-service kiosk at participating Post Office locations.
Scheduling Online:
- Visit the USPS online scheduler.
- Select “Passport Appointment” and specify the number of adults and minors applying.
- Search for appointments by location or date.
- Choose your preferred location, date, and time.
- Enter your contact details and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Review and confirm your appointment.
You can manage or cancel your appointment online using the “Manage Appointments” tab and your confirmation details.
Scheduling via Self-Service Kiosk:
- Go to a Post Office with a self-service kiosk. Use the USPS location finder to find kiosks.
- At the kiosk, select “Other Services,” then “Passport Scheduler.”
- Choose the required passport service and the number of applicants.
- Search for Post Offices by ZIP Code or City/State.
- Select an available appointment slot and agree to the terms.
- Enter your contact information and choose SMS notifications if desired.
- Review and confirm, then “Schedule Appointment.”
- Take the printed receipt with your appointment details.
Step 4: Understand Passport Acceptance and Processing Fees and Payment Methods
When applying for a passport for the first time, be aware of the two primary fee categories: application acceptance fees and application processing fees. Additional costs may include passport photos and expedited processing if needed.
Application Acceptance Fees (Payable to USPS at the Post Office)
These fees are paid directly at the Post Office when you submit your application. Acceptable payment methods typically include:
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Money Order: Payable to “Postmaster”
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Check: Payable to “Postmaster”
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Credit Card
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Debit Card
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Cash (check with your specific Post Office location to confirm if they accept cash)
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$35.00 – Post Office acceptance fee (subject to change, verify current fee on USPS website)
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$15.00 – Post Office photo fee (if you choose to get your photo taken at the Post Office) (subject to change)
Application Processing Fees (Payable to the U.S. Department of State)
Payment for the State Department processing fees is sent along with your application package. Acceptable payment methods for these fees are:
- Money Order: Payable to “U.S. Department of State”
- Personal Check
- Certified Check
- Cashier’s Check
- Traveler’s Check
Using a money order for passport fees is a reliable payment option accepted for both USPS acceptance fees and State Department processing fees, offering a secure alternative to cash and personal checks. Ensure you make the money order payable to the correct entity depending on which fee you are paying. By following these steps and understanding your payment options, including using money orders, you can navigate the passport application process with confidence.
