Applying for a Passport Anyone???

Working as a travel writer (full-time for just a bit over one year, I confess) all of my writing connected friends have been amazed that I do not possess a passport. "I don't anticipate needing one," I stated, "Especially since I haven't traveled anywhere with exception of the USA."

A few weeks ago I received an invitation via e-mail to tour Niagara Falls and Canada. Anticipating I would not be accepted to this divine location, I responded, letting the PR firm know I did not have an assignment. I mentioned I have a hospitality background and I know much about culinary arts. So, to move this blog along, the PR firm accepted me and I am scheduled to travel to Niagara Falls and Canada!

Oops! Think I need a passport!

My husband and I are members of AAA, so I phoned them anticipating filing for a passport would be an easy task. Wrong!

The kind lady at AAA shared valuable information, stating they could take the photograph, and she suggested I go online to file the application. She also suggested I would need a drivers license, and birth certificate.

I completed the process online, printed it, gathering a certified copy of my birth certificate and of course, my drivers license. [http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_842.html]

Since I live in Mt. Pleasant, SC and the US Post Office is always backed up with a line of customers, similar to customer service lines at the check outs at Wal Mart, K Mart, or McDonald's, I chose to phone them to inquire about a smooth way to process the passport.

"Our first available appointment is March 23," the male voice at the post office said. "Would you like to reserve a spot?"

"March 23?" I want to apply this week.

"We can't help you. Try another post office. Maybe East Bay Street, downtown Charleston, or Huger."

Reluctantly, I hung up the phone while sifting thru the phone book. Since January 2007, the post offices have been bombarded with applications for passports. When I applied for mine, I realized the public needed to know about this process and how stressful it could be, IF the applicant was not prepared.

Rule #1: Do your homework. Go online to complete the application.
Rule #2: Get your documents in order - including the passport application, two passport photographs, drivers license, and birth certificate.
Rule #3: Don't just drop by the post office. Check to make certain an appointment is not required.
Rule #4: Arrive on time and expect delays. Many people are applying for passports now.

While I was standing in line at the East Bay Street location, a woman three people behind me, was under the impression she could 'pick up the application, complete it at home at her leisure, and fax the details over.'

Don't think so!

She established eye contact with the post office employee, asking her how she could apply, and if she could do it at home, via a fax machine.

The clerk at the post office chuckled. "You can apply here, but you need to complete the application first, and have all your documents. We don't accept facsimiles."

The woman was playing with her Blackberry, appearing not to listen to the tips from the official. She spun on her heel, grumbling while punching the keyboard of the Blackberry.

A perfect example of how not to apply for a passport!

So, if you are anticipating applying for a passport, please make it an easy process by filing the application online, or expect a delay. Post office officials are working hard to make the process easier, but it is a bit confusing. So, make the process a bit easier by reading the information online. Do your homework prior to applying. I followed the guidelines and information to a "T" and it took me less than an hour to finalize my passport application.

http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

This web site is filled with information to answer your questions, and to make the application process an easier task.

Processing fees I paid totaled to $97, payable in personal checks. $67 for the passport, $30 to the U.S. Post Office.

After you complete the process, you will be given a copy of the instructions sheet, listing a website where you can follow up on the process.

Good Luck! Safe and happy travels, everyone!