prompter: What are the steps to get a passport in the United States?

assistant: I recommend following the steps on the official government website to ensure you have the accurate info: https://www.usa.gov/apply-adult-passport

To get a U.S. passport, you must be either:

- A U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or
- A qualifying U.S. non-citizen national

You will need:

- Application - You will need Form DS-11.
    - You can [Fill out Form DS-11 online](https://pptform.state.gov/passportwizardmain.aspx) and print it, or
    - [Download Form DS-11](https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds11.pdf) and fill it out by hand, or
    - [Find your local passport acceptance facility](https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/) or regional agency and pick up Form DS-11
    - Do not sign Form DS-11 until you are at your appointment and the passport acceptance official tells you to do so. 
- Personal documents including:
    - Original [proof of citizenship](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/citizenship-evidence.html)
    - An [acceptable photo ID](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/identification.html)
    - A photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID
- [Passport photo](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html)
- [Passport fee](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html)

If you need your password quickly, [Learn how and where to get your passport fast](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html) for emergency or urgent travel or to get expedited processing. The time it takes for each varies throughout the year, and there may be additional fees. [Use the fee calculator or chart](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html).

If you are outside the US, [Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate](https://www.usembassy.gov/) near you to [request a passport while outside the U.S](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/outside-us.html).

If you are a foreign citizen who does not qualify for a passport, cannot afford it, or think it may be too difficult, you may want to look into getting a [visa](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html).

assistant: Getting a passport in the United States involves several steps. While the process may vary slightly depending on your specific circumstances, here is a general outline of the steps to follow:

**Gather the required documents**:

a. Proof of U.S. citizenship: A certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a citizenship certificate, or a previous U.S. passport.
b. Proof of identity: A valid driver's license, government-issued ID, or previous U.S. passport.
c. Photocopy of the proof of identity: Both front and back, on standard 8.5 x 11-inch white paper.

**Obtain a passport photo**: Get a color, 2 x 2-inch (51 x 51 mm) passport photo that meets the U.S. Department of State's photo requirements. Many pharmacies, post offices, and photography studios offer this service.

**Fill out the appropriate application form**: First-time applicants should use Form DS-11. If you are renewing your passport, use Form DS-82. These forms are found online on the U.S. Department of State's website or at a local passport acceptance facility.

**Calculate fees**: Passport fees vary depending on the type of passport (book, card, or both), the applicant's age, and the processing method (standard or expedited). Consult the U.S. Department of State's fee calculator or table to determine the total cost.

**Submit your application**: First-time applicants must submit their application at a passport acceptance facility (such as a post office or courthouse) or a regional passport agency. If you're eligible for renewal by mail, follow the instructions on Form DS-82 and mail your application, including the required documents and fees, to the address specified on the form.

**Track your application**: You can track the status of your application online on the U.S. Department of State's website. Although these timelines vary, it typically takes 4-6 weeks for standard processing and 2-3 weeks for expedited processing. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of passport applications has surged, and wait times are considerably longer than usual. If you are considering travel, don't wait to apply, or your passport may not arrive on time.

**Receive your passport**: Once your application is approved and processed, your passport will be mailed to the address you provided on your application.

Remember to check for any updates or changes to the process on the U.S. Department of State's website, as requirements and procedures may change over time.

assistant: Apply for a passport appointment at https://www.usps.com/international/passports.htm