In Maryland, you can pick up a copy of the passport application in any local post office. Applications are also available at most Circuit Court Clerk's offices, or can be printed out online from the US State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs website located at www.travel.state.gov.
If this is the first time you have applied for a passport or you are under 16 years old, you will have to personally present your completed application to one of the official designated locations. These are usually local post offices, libraries, or courthouses. To find a designated area near you, visit http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ and search by your zip code or city and state.
If you are renewing a passport that is less than 15 years old, you can mail your application and other applicable documents to the address listed on the form.
Along with your passport application, you will need to provide proof that you are a U.S. citizen. Acceptable forms of proof include such documents as an expired passport, Naturalization Certificate, or certified birth certificate.
A valid driver's license, military or government ID are all acceptable forms of identification. In addition to showing your ID when applying for a passport, you will also be required to submit a copy of the front and back of the ID along with your application.
Two identical 2-by-2-inch current color photographs must be submitted with each passport application. They must be taken on a clean white background and the subject should be wearing everyday clothing. Glasses can be worn if they are part of the everyday attire. No dark or tinted glasses or hats should be worn.
A fee will be charged with all passport applications. An adult passport book can be used for international air travel and costs $110, while an adult passport card costs $30 and is good only for land travel to Mexico and Canada. Passport fees for books and cards for minors are $80 and $15 respectively. There is a separate $25 execution fee for all passports which applies to both adults and minors.
