If you’re looking for an all-inclusive paradise, chances are you’re taking your vacay international, which means you need one very important travel accessory–a passport. That little blue book gets you access to some of the best beachin’ beauties your eyes will see, so it’s important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row before you go.
Fun Fact: U.S. Citizens don’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn MORE about these awesome beach destinations.
How to Get
You only need to go in person to apply for a passport if you’re applying for your first passport, for a child under 16, your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged, was issued when you were under the age of 16 or more than 15 years ago. Otherwise, you can apply by mail. This even includes anyone who is going through the process of changing their name. As long as you have the right documents and your current passport, you’re good to stay home and renew by mail.
When to Get
The earlier, the better! You don’t need to wait for your passport to expire to get a new one. In fact, it’s encouraged to renew your passport well ahead of any planned international travel. Even if it still has a few months of validity left on it, you want to avoid letting the timeliness of a government agency be what’s standing in between you and bottomless margaritas.
Plus, many countries have a 3–6-month validity requirement beyond the dates of your trip, which means they won’t permit your entrance even though it’s technically not reached its expiration date. So, let this be your reminder to pull out your passport and take note if you need to start the renewal process, especially if you’re already dreaming about your next vacay.
What You Need
Everything you need, whether you’re a first-timer or ready to renew, is listed on the U.S. Department of State's official website. It’s also got the most up-to-date information, but we pulled a few important notes to consider before you get started:
- Make sure you are filling out the correct form. Those who need to apply in person must fill out Form DS-11, whereas those who are mailing in an application must fill out Form DS-82.
- Some facilities require an appointment and others do not. We recommend calling the facility ahead of time to verify their hours, acceptable forms of payment, and appointment requirements.
- You cannot pay online for passport services at this time. If mailing in an application, include the fees in the form of a personal check or money order.
- Routine processing times currently take 7-10 weeks, and expedited processing times take 3-5 weeks. Expedited services come with an additional $60 fee.
And that’s a wrap on Passport 101! Once you’re all squared away in the passport department, let our all-inclusive deals whisk you away to paradise.
