If there’s a “tasks most commonly procrastinated” list that exists out there somewhere, I bet filling out a passport application tops the list. Who WANTS to fill out a bunch of paperwork and read up on all the current passport processes? I know I was absolutely dreading the whole song-and-dance when I had to renew mine this past year. To make things just a little bit more painless for you, I’ve compiled answers to all the most commonly asked U.S. passport questions below. I’ve also included information on my #1 passport application hack – utilizing your congressperson or senator’s help if you need your passport ASAP!

Where can I find the U.S. passport application, and where do I submit it?

 You can find the forms you need here. Be sure that you choose the correct form, as the forms for a passport application and passport renewal application are different. You can only fill out a passport renewal form if you currently have a passport in your possession that was issued in the last 15 years. 

If you’re doing a passport renewal, then you can simply submit your application form by mail. You’ll need to include your current passport in the envelope.

If you’re applying for a passport for the first time OR your passport is long expired OR you lost it, you’ll have to submit your application form in person at a passport acceptance facility, along with proof of your U.S. citizenship (usually your birth certificate). 

But I heard I could renew my passport online? 

You heard right – sort of. The government ran an online renewal service for a short time, but they’ve now paused the service as they make some changes. The new and improved online portal/process should be live again sometime later this year. 

How long does it take to receive your U.S. passport after you submit your application? 

According to the government’s estimates, you should get your passport in the mail 10-13 weeks after the passport agency receives your application.

However, some people are reporting much longer wait times lately. Your mileage may vary. 

What can I do to speed up my application? 

The easiest way to speed things along to pay for expedited service at the time you submit your application. If you pay the $60 fee for expedited service, you should (key word here) get your new passport in the mail in 7-10 weeks from when the passport agency receives your application. You can also pay to upgrade to expedited service after you’ve already submitted your application. If you don’t get your passport in the 7-10 weeks, you may be eligible to receive your $60 fee back!

Additionally, you can pay for quicker shipping both to (if you’re mailing in a renewal form) and from the passport agency. 1-2 day shipping FROM the passport agency will cost you $19.53.

What should I do if I’m traveling soon, and I still haven’t received my passport back after submitting my application? 

If you’re traveling in five days or less, you can call 1-877-487-2778 to try to secure an urgent travel service appointment. Lots of times, those appointments are nearly impossible to get. 

Therefore, I suggest contacting your congressperson or senator! They can help you secure an appointment or speed the processing of your application along on the back end. Most importantly? You can call or email them well before the five-day window given by the passport agency (usually most say to contact them about two weeks before, but it depends on the specifics provided by your particular congressperson/senator). 

What should I do if I’m traveling soon, and I haven’t submitted an application?

If you’re traveling in fourteen days or less, you can call 1-877-487-2778 to try to secure an urgent travel service appointment. If you’re having troubles getting an appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your congressperson or senator in this case, as well! 

What do I need to know about taking my passport photo?  

I personally recommend paying for your passport photo to be taken – professionals can make sure your photo meets all the necessary requirements. You can get find passport photo services at most post offices and pharmacy stores (like Walgreens). 

Just so you’re aware, you CAN smile in your passport photos now, but it has to be a “natural” smile – so in other words, not too toothy or expressive. If you want to be on the safe side, then don’t show your teeth. I’d recommend wearing neutral, dark-colored clothing that won’t blend into the white background of the photo. 

Can I still travel if my passport is due to expire soon?  

The short answer? Not really. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip. However, the specific rules vary by country and by the purpose of your travel. For example, if you are traveling to a country that is a member of the Schengen Area in Europe, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay. If you are traveling to another country, it’s best to check the entry requirements for that specific country to determine the passport validity requirements.