Guide to Applying for U.S. Passports

Not having a passport can be a roadblock to getaways ranging from the ideal family vacation to a critical business trips. But having a valid U.S. passport can open doors, expose you to new cultures, and perhaps most importantly, eliminate the stress of not having a valid passport.

Depending on a host of factors, applying for a passport can be a long, tedious process for reasons ranging from national security concerns to the sheer demand for these important travel documents. But once you have it in hand, passports are valid anywhere from five years for minors to 10 years for those 16 years and older.

As you’ll find out, the best time to get a passport ...