Dec 14

Dec 14 How to Get Your First U.S. Passport (Even If You Don’t Know Where You’re Going Yet)

Updated for 2025: Step-by-step guide + encouragement for first-time travelers

If you’ve been dreaming about traveling internationally for the first time—maybe to Jamaica, Paris, or that dreamy overwater bungalow in the Maldives—but you don’t even have a passport yet… girl, don’t worry.

You’re in the right place.

Even if you don’t know where you want to go, you just know you want to go somewhere—this post is for you.

When I was changing my last name after getting married, I had to update everything—driver’s license, social security card, bank accounts, and yep… my passport.

I was venting about the process at work when I found out none of my coworkers had passports. Not one. And these are educated, diverse, adventurous people.

That’s when I realized: not having a passport isn’t about laziness—it’s usually about mindset, money, or just not knowing where to start.

A few of them told me the same thing you might be thinking:

“I can’t afford to travel right now, so what’s the point of having a passport?”

Oh, I felt that. I used to think the same thing.

Back when I was living on a $1,200/month grad school budget, I assumed international travel was out of reach for me too. But then I learned how to plan trips that fit my tiny budget—thanks to travel blogs, flight alerts, and the magical rabbit hole that is Google.

That’s actually why I started this blog:

To show you that international travel is possible—even on a budget.

And step one?

Get your U.S. passport. It’s your golden ticket to the world.

Why You Need a Passport (Even If You’re Not Traveling Yet)

Here’s a fun fact: You don’t just need a passport to go somewhere—you also need it to get back. If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling abroad (even just to Canada or Mexico), the U.S. government requires a valid passport for re-entry.

Think of it as your international ID.

And honestly?

Getting your passport is one of the smartest investments you can make if you want to open the door to global adventures. It currently costs about $145, which may feel like a lot—but it unlocks years of travel possibilities.

How to Get a U.S. Passport in 2025: Step-by-Step

1. Start with the right application

If this is your first passport, you’ll use Form DS-11. You can fill it out online and print it, or grab a hard copy from a passport acceptance facility (like some post offices or libraries).

2. Gather your documents

Here’s what you’ll need:

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (like your birth certificate)
A government-issued photo ID (like your driver’s license)
A passport photo (you can get one taken at CVS, Walgreens, or a local photo center—just make sure it meets the current guidelines)

3. Pay the fees

As of 2025, the cost is:

$130 application fee + $35 execution fee = $165 total
Optional: Add $60 for expedited service if you’re in a rush

4. Submit your application in person

First-time applicants must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. You can find the nearest one here.

5. Wait for it to arrive

Routine processing can take 6–8 weeks, while expedited processing typically takes 2–3 weeks.

Passport Pro Tips for First-Time Travelers

Apply early – Don’t wait until you book a trip! Delays happen, and you’ll thank yourself for having it ready when a travel deal pops up.
Keep a digital copy – Snap a photo of your passport (especially the barcode) and store it in a secure cloud folder in case it gets lost or stolen.
Don’t forget the passport card – It’s optional, but handy if you plan to take land or sea trips to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.

Real Talk: You Can Afford to Travel

I know international travel seems expensive. But trust me—there are so many ways to make it happen without blowing your budget. Budget airlines, shoulder season deals, credit card travel points, group trips, travel agents (like me!) who help you plan smart…

And it all starts with getting that passport.