# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How to Obtain a Passport in Phoenix, Arizona

If you are planning to travel abroad, you will need a passport. A passport is a physical record of your travels, and a necessary document when leaving and entering a foreign country. It contains important personal information that customs authorities need in order to grant you passage. Although obtaining a passport usually takes at least six weeks, the procedure itself is fairly easy to follow. There are several facilities in Phoenix, Arizona that are able to help you with your application.

Valid government-issued photo ID
Certified birth certificate
Passport application

Instructions

- 1
  Print out the passport application form from the United States Department of State website, and fill it out.
- 2
  Make a copy of your government-issued ID on plain white 8-1/2-by-11-inch paper. Each page must contain images on only one side of the paper.
- 3
  Write out one check to U.S. Department of State in the amount of $110, and one check to the acceptance facility in the amount of $25.
- 4
  Have two full-color 2-by-2-nch passport photos taken. At many acceptance facilities, it is possible take this picture taken at the time of application.
- 5
  Collect all of your documents and bring them to a passport application acceptance facility such as the Maricopa County Clerk of the Court. Other acceptance facilities can be found by entering your address on the U.S. Department of State website.