As a parent, I’m constantly thinking about my family’s safety and future. In today’s unpredictable world, it’s easy to feel like there’s no way to prepare for everything. Natural disasters, political unrest, and unforeseen emergencies can happen at any time, and sometimes, our best-laid plans can be derailed in an instant. That’s why I’ve made it one of my personal 100 life goals to ensure that my entire family has their passports—because, in my mind, a passport is more than just a travel document; it’s a form of life insurance.
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What is a Passport?
A passport is an official government-issued document that certifies a person’s identity and nationality, allowing them to travel internationally. It also opens doors to safety and opportunity.
If something were to happen where we live, having a passport means that we could leave the country and find refuge elsewhere. It’s a safety net that provides options in times of uncertainty. Whether it’s a natural disaster, civil unrest, or other emergencies, the ability to relocate quickly and legally is invaluable. Having this document for each family member ensures that, should we ever need to leave, we can do so without delay.
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Application For A US Passport (DS-11)
If you’ve never had a passport before, don’t worry—it’s not as difficult to get as you might think. One simple way to apply for a passport, whether for yourself or a child, is to visit your local United States Post Office and fill out the passport application form. You can also download the form online and complete it with black ink.
The process is the same for the renewal, except that you will use a different form called the Renewal Application (DS-82).
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Passport Requirements
Next, you’ll need to get a passport photo. We’ve had ours taken in just minutes for under $20 at both, CVS and Walgreens. Once you have your photo, schedule an appointment at the post office and bring along a money order, the person’s birth certificate, and a government-issued ID.
For adults, that’s all you need to do. However, if you’re applying for a child’s passport, both parents must be present to provide their identification and sign the form. It’s a straightforward process that can have you on your way to obtaining a passport in no time.
At the time of me writing this, passport fees are $160 for adults and $130 for minors.
Global Mobility and Family Travel
Beyond just safety, passports also serve as a means to explore the world and broaden our horizons. I want my children to grow up with an understanding that the world is bigger than their backyard and that they can experience other cultures and countries. Travel can offer so many life lessons—adaptability, independence, and empathy. A passport means that my kids will have that opportunity sooner rather than later.
According to USA Today, “fifty-one percent of Americans now have passports, up from 46% in 2023 and 30% in 2008. There are more than 171 million valid U.S. passports in circulation, according to the State Department”.
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Emergency Preparedness
Additionally, having passports for my entire family creates peace of mind. While we hope we’ll never need to use them in a crisis, knowing that we are prepared brings a sense of security. Life is unpredictable, but with passports in hand, we’ve removed one barrier to making a quick, life-changing decision if needed.
A Form of Identification
It’s also worth noting that in some cases, a passport is required for identification in various situations, including international medical treatment, taking language tests for immigration purposes, or even crossing borders within neighboring countries. The benefits of having this important form of identification extend beyond emergencies, providing flexibility and freedom in so many aspects of life.
Final Thoughts
In summary, getting passports for my family isn’t just about travel—it’s about ensuring that we’re prepared for any eventuality. It’s about giving us the ability to move, adapt, and survive if ever the need arises. And, in today’s world, I can’t think of a better investment in our future. Just don’t forget to make copies of all of your travel documents, as well as your passport.
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