I applied for my passport a couple of years ago and it took 9 days to get it. Every person has to go thru a check with Homeland Security. It gives the option to pay a fee to expidite it (I did not). I think it cost me around $120.00. Also there is a key tag that is cheaper to buy if you are only going to be going to countries that border the US. (Savings of about $40.) Be sure and tell whom ever does the photos that they are used for passports. When you send the money in with the pics, they return with passport and extra photos. They are good for 10 years. If lost be sure and notify homeland security in your area.