How hard is it to get a passport?

US?

If you have never had a passport before, you must be seen in person by an acceptance agent for ID verification. You must have a completed DS-11 (fill out download, and print ALL ages, or get one from

your local USPS office):

http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_8...

proof of US citizenship (usually a Certified copy of your Birth Certificate issued by the Vital Records in the county of your birth, or by Vital Records in the capital city), government issued ID, 1 passport photo, $110 passport fee(check or (Postal) Money order, and $25 application fee payable to the acceptance agent. The birth certificatye will go in with the application and be returned to you.

Most USPS offices are acceptance agents for Passports. They can take the photo as well, usually $15.

There are no differences in cost no matter where you apply. Normal processing takes about 4-6 weeks, and if you need it faster, it will be an additional $60 for 2-3 week service.

There are a few different rules for children (who get a 5 year passport and need both parents present to sign)), and 16 /17 year-olds (who get 10 year passports, and only need 1 parent to sign). If you are 18 or older, you get a 10 year passport.

Unless you need to travel within 2-3 days, there is no reason to pay a courier service.

http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/get_4855.html

It not hard to get a passport

Passports are your legal right provided you meet the criteria. Get one now and avoid the rush.

We actually got it in 2 days, so it depends how soon you are leaving. Go online to this website http://www.passportsandvisas.com/ and it can tell you how to get one withing 24 hours. It's really helpful! Also, you can easily take your picture at Costco for a low price!