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 Passport Frequently Asked Questions...


1.  How long does it take to get a passport?

The normal processing time is four to six weeks.

 2.   I need to get my passport as quickly as possible, is special expedited 
processing available?

Yes.  You must pay an additional $74.85 surcharge, and provide one (1) 
Overnight/Express mail postage stamped envelope to receive your 
passport in two to three weeks.

 3.  What if I need a passport in less than 14 days?

You must make an appointment with the Miami Passport Agency by calling 
(877) 487-2778.  You must provide an itinerary or proof of tickets or a letter from 
an employer on company letterhead,  and you must travel to the Miami Passport 
Agency.

4.   I  had a passport before, but it has expired.  Can I simply renew it?

Yes, If it was issued within the past 15 years, and if you were 16 years or older  when the passport was issued.  You must also be able to submit the expired  passport.  Form DS-82 is available via  www.travel.state.gov for renewals.

 5.  Can I get passport forms online?

Yes, you can obtain forms by visiting  www.travel.state.gov.

 6.  What countries require a Visa?

You may contact the Clerk's office to obtain that information or  visit  www.travel.state.gov.

 7.  Can I get a U.S. Passport if I am not a U.S. Citizen?

No.  You must contact the nearest consulate for your country or contact 
Immigration & Naturalization Services.

 8.  My passport has been lost, stolen, or mutilated.  What must I do?

You must complete a new application, with new pictures, birth certificate and complete 
an "Affidavit of lost or stolen" passport.  The forms are available in the Clerk's office or via www.travel.state.gov.  

 9.  I am a convicted felon.  Can I get a passport?

The Federal Passport Agency will determine if you are eligible.  Contact the passport agency at 877-487-2778.

10.  If I owe money for Child Support, am I eligible to get a passport?

Public Law 104-193 stipulates that a person being in arrears on child support by 
an amount exceeding $2,500 is ineligible; however, you should contact the 
passport agency at 877-487-2778.

11.  How much is the fee for a passport Book (For:  Air, Land, or Sea Travel)?

Age 16 and older:  $75.00  - personal check or money order  only
Age 15 and under: $60.00  - personal check or money order  only 

Each applicant will also be charged a $25.00 processing fee.  This fee is separate 
from the passport fee.  It must be paid by cash, credit card or money order.

12.  How much is the fee for a passport Card (For:  Land or Sea Travel between the U.S., 
Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean)

Age 16 and older:   $20.00 - personal check or money order  only
Age 15 and under:  $10.00 - personal check or money order  only

Each applicant will also be charged a $25.00 processing fee.  This fee is separate from the passport fee.  It must be paid by cash, credit card or money order.

13.  What are the requirements for a passport photograph?

You must provide two 2 x 2 passport photos, they must be colored photos, must be 
identical with a full frontal view with a white or off-white background.  They must show 
your current appearance (no uniforms, hats, head gear or dark colored glasses).  
Photos must have been taken within the past six (6) months.

If you normally wear prescription glasses, they should be worn when you take your 
photos.  However, dark colored glasses should not be worn, unless you need them 
or medical reasons.  A medical certificate may be required.

14.  Can I sign my application in advance?

No.  An oath must be administered before signatures are taken. 

15.  Because of identity theft, I don't want to list my Social Security number, do I have to list it?

Yes.  Social Security numbers are mandatory.

16.  If I don't have a certified copy of my birth certificate, how can I get one?

You must contact the Office of Vital Statistics where you were born or visit www.vitalchek.com  to order your birth certificate on-line.

17.  Once issued, how long will my passport be good for?

An Adult passport Book/Card is valid for ten (10) years.
A child's passport Book/Card is valid for five (5) years.

Downloadable Passport application for first-time applicants.

Downloadable Passport application for renewals only