7 Common Passport Application Mistakes

Seven Common Passport Application Mistakes

1. Passport Application Typos and Misspellings
One of the most common mistakes when filling out your passport application is having typos and misspellings. Since passport applications are commonly made online, it's easy to misspell something and not notice it.

An example of a common typo error is listing your birthday as 1909 rather than 1990.

This is particularly common if you’re not used to typing your information or if you’re in a rush to complete your application.

THE FIX : Before submitting your application, make sure that you review the entire thing for any mistakes.

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2. Approved Passport Photo
Taking it from using your iPhone can result in a low-quality image.

Even if you use a professional camera, chances are you'll still make a mistake.

You can end up using the incorrect background-color. Or you can get your head size wrong. Too large or small head size in proportion to the background can cause your passport photo to be rejected.

THE FIX : It's best to have someone take a photo of you that meets US Passport Photo Requirements in either a Photo App OR visit a local drugstore like a Walgreens Passport Photo or CVS Passport Photo Center near you.

3. Certified Copy of Birth Certificate
When applying for a new passport, you'll need to submit either a legal certified copy or the original copy of your birth certificate.

Photo or digital copies are not acceptable. Submitting one of these is one of the most common issues applicants make when applying for a passport.

It's also essential that you submit the long-form birth certificate. This type of birth certificate includes your parent's full names.

Remember, hospital certificates aren't birth certificates and will be rejected in your application.

THE FIX: Submit a certified copy of a long form birth certificate.

4. Passport Application Payment Issues
You must submit your application fee in the proper amount and to the appropriate location.

Remember to use the proper payment method. These include checks, money orders, certified checks, or cashier's checks. Payments can't be submitted in cash or using a credit card or debit card.

For checks, make sure the check is not a starter check, has the applicants name pre-printed on the check and make sure to write your data of birth on the check.

Make sure that you write the payment to the correct name. All payments must be made to the "US Department of the State."

If you are using a check, remember to write the proper address on your check.

Finally, make sure you include the correct amount. The final price will depend on whether it's a new passport or a renewal.

THE FIX: Ensure payment is correct, by viewing our Passport Application Costs

5. Applying For A Minor or Child Passport Mistakes
Passport applications for minors have special requirements.

First, the child, along with their parents, must be present. They also must fill out a DS-11 form when submitting their applications.

Parents must also submit legal documents to prove their parental relationship, typically in the form of a certified long form birth certificate. Parents also need to present photo identification.

Finally, both parents must authorize the issuance of a child's passport.

You must also submit all the other standard documents and information for your child's application form.

Keep in mind that children's passports only last five years. You can't renew this type of passport, either.

6. Child Support Payments
If you owe anything over $2,500 in child support payments, your passport application will be rejected. It's best to make sure all your child support payments are up-to-date before you apply for a new passport.

7. Signature Errors on the Passport Application
When signing your forms, always use a red, blue, or black pen. Pens of any other color will likely be rejected.

Also, make sure you sign the correct name. Don't sign your nickname.

Your signature on your application should match the signature you provided on your government identification and prior passport. If your IDs don't match, your application may be denied.

Finally, if you have changed your signature style, you may need to sign with your original signature. Always match your signatures so that they are sure it's the same person.

THE FIX: Make sure you sign your application and also ensure the signature itself is like your drivers license and/or prior passport.

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