You’ll need a passport to enter most foreign countries, and it is the preferred proof of citizenship when visiting Mexico and many Caribbean islands. Here’s what the U.S. State Department says you need to get one:
Application forms: Available in person from Chicago Passport Agency, Kluczynski Federal Office Building, Suite 380, 230 S. Dearborn St., Chicago, or many post offices, clerks of court and travel agencies; by mail when you call the National Passport Information Center at 900-225-5674; or by Internet download at travel.state.gov
Required documents: Proof of U.S. citizenship (previous U.S. passport, certified copy of birth certificate, or certificate of naturalization); proof of identity (driver’s license, military I.D.,); two photographs (2-by-2 inches, taken within the last six months, full frontal face view, light background, black-and-white or color); Social Security number.
Fees: $60 ($40 by mail if it’s a renewal) for 10-year passport (ages 16 and older); $40 for five-year passport (younger than 16).
Make an appearance: You can fill out the paperwork at home, but you must apply in person (by mail only if you have your most recent passport, issued within the past 12 years, and you were over age 16 when it was issued). A parent or legal guardian usually may appear and apply on behalf of children under age 13.
Emergencies: If you are leaving on a trip within five working days, apply in person at the nearest passport agency and, in addition to providing all of the above documentation and fees, you must present your airline tickets and an additional $35 expedite fee.
National Passport Information Center: 900-225-5674, 35 cents/minute for recorded information, $1.05 for operator assistance.
