The Essential Guide to Getting Your U.S. Passport

Cierra Orgeron • June 22, 2025

Don’t Have a Passport Yet? Let’s Fix That

Cliffside villas in Oia, Santorini overlooking the Aegean Sea with a sailboat and plunge pools.
 A friendly guide to getting your U.S. passport—and making those travel dreams real.

There’s something empowering about applying for your first passport. You’re saying yes to adventure, yes to new experiences, and yes to future memories you haven’t even made yet. I know it can feel confusing when you don’t know where to start.

So here’s a simple, stress-free guide to getting your U.S. passport—with zero legal jargon and all the clarity you need.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You’ll need a few important things before you head to your appointment:

  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship
    A certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previously issued U.S. passport.
  • Proof of Identity
    A valid government-issued photo ID (like your driver’s license). If your name has changed, bring documentation for that too (like a marriage certificate).
  • Photocopies of Both
    Black-and-white, single-sided copies of the front and back of both documents.


Step 2: Get a Passport Photo Taken

This part’s easy—just make sure it meets the official requirements:

  • 2x2 inches
  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • White or off-white background
  • No glasses, hats, filters, or heavy editing

Travel Agent Tip: Most pharmacies, post offices, and shipping stores like UPS or FedEx can take passport photos for a small fee.


Step 3: Fill Out Form DS-11

This is the application form for first-time applicants. You can complete it online and print it, or fill it out by hand. Just don’t sign it yet—you’ll do that in front of the passport agent.


➡️ Click here to get the form


Step 4: Find a Passport Acceptance Facility

You’ll need to go in person to submit your application.

Search by zip code here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov
Travel Agent Tip: Some places require appointments, so call ahead or schedule online.


Step 5: Submit Everything In Person

Bring the following with you:

  • Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned)
  • Original proof of citizenship + copy
  • Valid photo ID + copy
  • Your passport photo
  • Payment for fees (check or money order preferred)


Step 6: Pay the Fees

Here’s what it will cost as of 2025:

The passport book is what you’ll need for international flights. The card is only valid for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.


Step 7: Wait (but not too long)

  • Routine Processing: 6–8 weeks
  • Expedited Processing: 2–3 weeks
  • Need it ASAP? Call 1-877-487-2778 for emergency travel within 14 days.


Bonus: Renewing? It’s Easier.

If you already had a passport that was issued in the last 15 years (and you were 16+ at the time), you can likely renew by mail using Form DS-82. No appointment needed!


Final Thoughts from Your Travel Agent

Getting a passport is a rite of passage—and the first step toward a bigger world. If you need help with the process or want to plan a trip to celebrate your shiny new passport, I’d love to help.

📧 Cierra@nowboardingtravelco.com
🌐www.nowboardingtravelco.com

Travel Advisors vs. Booking Online: What You’re Actually Missing

By Cierra Orgeron • August 2, 2025
In the age of click-and-go travel deals, it’s easy to assume that booking your own vacation is faster, easier, and cheaper. But here’s the reality: while the internet shows you prices, I offer protection, personalization, and perks—and it makes a big difference when something goes wrong. As a professional travel advisor, I use a wide network of trusted suppliers—like Expedia TAAP, Bedsonline, Room-Res, cruise portals, and direct hotel and tour operator relationships—to find the best overall value for your trip. It's not just about clicking "book now"—it's about knowing which supplier to use, which terms are safest, and which deal is actually a deal. Let me show you what you might be missing by booking online alone: 1. Exclusive Pricing You Won’t Find on Google I work with travel supplier platforms that offer rates you simply can’t access without being an advisor. This includes: Up to 60% off select hotels and resorts Cruise group perks like onboard credit or cocktail parties Theme park tickets bundled with hotel stays at a discount Vacation packages that combine airfare + stay for less Not only do I know where to look for the best rates—I also know when to wait, book, or bundle for the biggest savings. 2. The Terms That Could Cost You (If You Don’t Read the Fine Print) Online bookings often come with layers of terms and conditions—some that can make or break your trip. For example: Missing the first night of your hotel stay? Your entire reservation could be canceled. Choosing the wrong “Pay Later” option could mean surprise fees or stricter cancellation windows. Booking multiple rooms for a group? Some platforms will cancel your reservation if you exceed a hidden group room limit. I review the terms for you, compare cancellation policies, and help protect your money and peace of mind. 3. Real Support—Not Just a Confirmation Number If a flight is canceled or a hotel is overbooked, who helps you? When you book online, you're often left on hold or on your own. When you book with me, I’m your advocate before, during, and after your trip. That means: I step in to rebook you when plans change unexpectedly I handle supplier calls, claims, and adjustments on your behalf You have one point of contact, not five different customer service centers 4. Time Back and Stress Gone You could spend 5+ hours comparing flights, hotels, and packages—or you could tell me your priorities and let me handle the rest. I: Narrow your options based on your needs (not just algorithms) Match you with the right suppliers based on flexibility, budget, and value Help you avoid decision fatigue so you can actually enjoy the planning process This is what I do every day—so you don’t have to. 5. It’s More Than a Booking—It’s Peace of Mind There’s a difference between clicking “book” and knowing your trip is covered, confirmed, and customized. I help my clients: Understand their travel insurance options Navigate local travel requirements or tourist taxes Make smart decisions that protect their investment When you work with a travel advisor, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re booking a smoother experience with someone in your corner the entire way. Ready for a better way to travel? Let’s plan something incredible together—without the stress, guesswork, or fine-print surprises. Whether you're booking a quick getaway or a bucket-list adventure, I’m here to help you travel smarter.

Connect with Me

Travel Advisors vs. Booking Online: What You’re Actually Missing

By Cierra Orgeron • August 2, 2025
In the age of click-and-go travel deals, it’s easy to assume that booking your own vacation is faster, easier, and cheaper. But here’s the reality: while the internet shows you prices, I offer protection, personalization, and perks—and it makes a big difference when something goes wrong. As a professional travel advisor, I use a wide network of trusted suppliers—like Expedia TAAP, Bedsonline, Room-Res, cruise portals, and direct hotel and tour operator relationships—to find the best overall value for your trip. It's not just about clicking "book now"—it's about knowing which supplier to use, which terms are safest, and which deal is actually a deal. Let me show you what you might be missing by booking online alone: 1. Exclusive Pricing You Won’t Find on Google I work with travel supplier platforms that offer rates you simply can’t access without being an advisor. This includes: Up to 60% off select hotels and resorts Cruise group perks like onboard credit or cocktail parties Theme park tickets bundled with hotel stays at a discount Vacation packages that combine airfare + stay for less Not only do I know where to look for the best rates—I also know when to wait, book, or bundle for the biggest savings. 2. The Terms That Could Cost You (If You Don’t Read the Fine Print) Online bookings often come with layers of terms and conditions—some that can make or break your trip. For example: Missing the first night of your hotel stay? Your entire reservation could be canceled. Choosing the wrong “Pay Later” option could mean surprise fees or stricter cancellation windows. Booking multiple rooms for a group? Some platforms will cancel your reservation if you exceed a hidden group room limit. I review the terms for you, compare cancellation policies, and help protect your money and peace of mind. 3. Real Support—Not Just a Confirmation Number If a flight is canceled or a hotel is overbooked, who helps you? When you book online, you're often left on hold or on your own. When you book with me, I’m your advocate before, during, and after your trip. That means: I step in to rebook you when plans change unexpectedly I handle supplier calls, claims, and adjustments on your behalf You have one point of contact, not five different customer service centers 4. Time Back and Stress Gone You could spend 5+ hours comparing flights, hotels, and packages—or you could tell me your priorities and let me handle the rest. I: Narrow your options based on your needs (not just algorithms) Match you with the right suppliers based on flexibility, budget, and value Help you avoid decision fatigue so you can actually enjoy the planning process This is what I do every day—so you don’t have to. 5. It’s More Than a Booking—It’s Peace of Mind There’s a difference between clicking “book” and knowing your trip is covered, confirmed, and customized. I help my clients: Understand their travel insurance options Navigate local travel requirements or tourist taxes Make smart decisions that protect their investment When you work with a travel advisor, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re booking a smoother experience with someone in your corner the entire way. Ready for a better way to travel? Let’s plan something incredible together—without the stress, guesswork, or fine-print surprises. Whether you're booking a quick getaway or a bucket-list adventure, I’m here to help you travel smarter.