To obtain a passport, the general process involves the following steps:

1. Determine Eligibility and Type of Passport
   You must be a citizen or qualifying national of your country. Decide whether you need a passport book, a passport card, or both. For first-time applicants, you usually need to apply in person

2. Complete the Application Form
   Fill out the appropriate passport application form. For example, in the U.S., first-time adult applicants use Form DS-11, which can be filled out online and printed or completed by hand. Do not sign the form until instructed to do so at your appointment

3. Gather Required Documents
   You need to provide:

   • Proof of citizenship (original or certified copy with official seal)
   • Proof of identity (valid photo ID)
   • Photocopies of the above documents
   • A recent passport photo that meets specifications
   • Applicable fees for the passport application and processing

4. Submit Your Application In Person
   First-time applicants and those who cannot renew by mail must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or passport agency. Some locations require appointments

5. Pay Fees
   Fees vary by passport type and processing speed. Payment methods depend on the facility but typically include credit cards, checks, or money orders payable to the relevant government department

6. Wait for Processing
   Processing times vary; it is advised to apply several months before planned travel. You can track your application status online after submission

7. Receive Your Passport
   Your passport and original citizenship documents will be returned to you, usually within a few weeks after processing is complete

For example, in the United States, you can start by filling out Form DS-11 online or by hand, gather your proof of citizenship and identity documents, get a passport photo, and then apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. Do not sign your application until you are at the facility. Fees must be paid at the time of application. After submission, you wait for processing and then receive your passport by mail

. If you are applying in other countries, processes may vary slightly, such as online application options in the UK or India, but the core steps of completing an application, providing proof of citizenship and identity, submitting photos, paying fees, and waiting for processing remain consistent

. In summary, obtaining a passport involves preparing your application, submitting it with required documents and fees in person (for first-time applicants), and waiting for the government to process and issue your passport.