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Destination Documentation

All exotic abroad honeymoons start with the same thing - a passport

By Timothy R. Schulte
CTW Features

As the gray skies of winter creep in, tropical locales become all the more alluring.

But couples planning to jet off to a foreign paradise after tying the knot need to get one thing taken care of first: the passport.

If you don't yet have a passport, right now would be a great time to start the application process At the start of November, applications were being processed in four to six weeks (two to three if expedited); during busier travel periods like the summer the wait can be longer - not good if you're my-passport-needs-to-arrive-soon window is small.

So what do you need to do?

1. Complete Form DS-11: Application For A U.S. Passport

You must apply in person at an Acceptance Facility, such as a post office, or Passport Agency. Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by the Acceptance Agent. Also, be sure to have all the required documentation, which we'll get to.

2. Submit Evidence of U.S. Citizenship

Evidence of U.S. citizenship must be submitted with Form DS-11, such as:

• Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth

• Naturalization Certificate of Citizenship

3. Present Identification

Acceptable identification includes:

• Naturalization Certificate

• Valid Driver's License

• Current Government ID (city, state or federal)

• Current Military ID (military and dependents)

4. Submit a Photocopy of the ID Presented Above