Passport tips?

I knew the day would come where something inside me would tick and I'd be off into a whole new direction. I am a natural-born U.S citizen. There is a point where one realizes exactly what's going on and what is about to happen. I can only hope the window of time to leave is still open just enough for me to make it out in time. I won't get into detail, that's not what this thread is about. I simply know that I must take an "extended vacation" of sorts.

I'm looking for any advise one might have on how to quickly obtain a passport. If you know of any "short-cuts" so-to-speak, that would be quite helpful. I've read somewhere that the entire process could take 6 months and I fear that may be too long. I'm looking for your experiences with obtaining a passport so I can know just what I have ahead of me. The more I know before I start the process the better off I'll be and hopefully I can get it done with a bit more haste. Any experiences or advise on obtaining a passport would be appreciated.

Thanks!

reply to post by M0n0lyth


There are a few ways to get a passport.

- simply go through the normal process and you'll get it in about 6-8 weeks.

- pay an extra fee for a rush (I think its about $125) and you'll get it in about 3 weeks

- go to an actual passport office (you need to check because many of these have been closed. I know that there is one in SanFrancisco and I'm sure all top-tier citys have them). If you get there in the morning, pay the expedite fee and are willing to wait, you will generally get one in 24-48 hours.

Hope that helps

reply to post by dolphinfan


Great info!

Sure is a better outlook than what I was thinking. Thanks

Not to waste any of your time but ...

You can work through most US Post Offices if you haven't a local passport office nearby. They have the application forms and instructions.
In summary you'll need the following:

The the completed application, fees (Check) , US birth certificate(copy) and 2 passport photos, any copy/photo shop such as Kinkos can help you out there with the regulation sized photos.

Well you can go to the post office but if you need to leave for an emergency you can go to any port or harbor and lots of sailors will take you where you want to go for a fee. Trouble is not getting out of the country trouble is getting back in.