If you want to travel overseas, then you need to have a valid US passport to do it. In order to get a US passport, you need to complete a passport application correctly and submit it to the passport issuing authority. The process may seem intimidating, but if done accurately, there is rarely a problem with receiving your passport.

The first thing you need to do in your quest for a passport is to visit a post office and pick up an application form. Alternatively, you can download the application from the Internet and print it out. If you do print it, you need to do so in black ink on white matte paper. The dimensions of the paper that you use must be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches. Glossy paper, other colors or different sized paper will not be accepted by the office.

In order to have your application approved, you will need to be able to provide proof of US citizenship. Documents that are approved for this purpose are a certified US birth certificate (not a copy), a US citizenship certificate or a naturalization certificate. Other forms of ID may also be requested such as an old US passport, driver’s license or other forms of state or federal ID.

Along with your passport application you will also need to provide two acceptable passport photos that have been taken within the last six months. There are strict requirements about what is passable when it comes to these photos. You should not have any type of head covering; if you wear glasses, then you will need to remove them; civilian clothes only and the lighting and centering of the shot also need to be just right.

The passport issuing office in the United States works under a heavy load of applications and while they endeavor to have the passports issued quickly, there can be delays. For this reason it is best to apply for your passport with anticipation and the office suggests that you apply around 12 weeks prior to your travel arrangements. For an extra fee you can arrange to have your passport application assessed more quickly.

After you have sent your application to the US passport office, you can keep an eye on its progress through the Internet at the state department’s website. It is very important that you fill in the application forms carefully and thoroughly. If information is missed, not filled out correctly or false, then the application will be rejected or delayed. Your passport is current for 10 years upon issue.

Costs involved with US passports are - adult passport $100, child passport $85. The additional fee to have the passport issued more quickly is $60. If you are applying for a US passport for the first time, then you will also need to fill in the DS-11 form with your application.

When filling in the passport application form, be sure to include all the required information, adequate photos and the right fee. If you do this, then you will not have a problem in having your application approved for a American passport. Around 10 per cent of applicants experience problems because they have not included all the right details.