Nowadays, it appears as if the world is compressing at an ever-faster pace. People are able, for example, to jump on a plane in Los Angeles and be in Moscow in a matter of hours. In almost every instance like this though, a passport will be a necessity. Understanding the steps involved in a passport application therefore may come in handy when it's time to get one.

First of all, realize that the US State Department handles all applications for a US passport. And even though the process might seem a little complicated at first, it really isn't all that hard to obtain an official passport. Generally speaking, applicants also have several different ways of getting one, including on their own or by hiring an passport expediting service to do so for them.

For those who are 16 years of age or older, and who are obtaining a passport for the first time, there are specific steps that must be taken in order to receive a passport after application. In general, all people who are requesting a passport for the first time must apply in person at a passport issuance agency office or through US post offices set up to accept passports.

Also, government Form DS-11 - Application for a US Passport - must be submitted, along with additional documentation. Never sign the form before arriving at the acceptance facility or passport agency as a passport worker must witness the signing. As far as documentation goes, proof of citizenship and identity, along with a Social Security number, will be required.

When it comes to citizenship, there are a number of different regulations that pertain to the kind of acceptable proof. Usually, a birth certificate that has a raised seal, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization papers will work quite well. If those aren't available, there are some other secondary documents that will be accepted. Check on the State Department passport website for just which ones those are.

Identification documentation can take many different forms, by the way. Examples of such documents when it comes to proving identity include a valid driver's license, military identification card or a government-issued identification card from a state, city or municipality or other official entity. Secondary identification such as a Social Security card and credit card may also be accepted.

The fee for the issuance of a passport for adults, meaning those who are at least 16 years of age, runs from $20 up to $95 along with an execution fee of another $25. Payment methods range from strictly cash through debit and credit cards, as well as postal money orders and personal checks, in certain cases. Check with the passport issuing agency for just which payment forms are accepted.

Understanding the steps involved in a passports forms can make the whole process go much smoother in most instances. Always check the State Department passport website for the process involved in doing this on one's own. If that's not possible, consider making use of the services offered by an express U S passport service. They, too, can also aid greatly in smoothing and shortening the process.