If you've decided to take the plunge and go on an international trip, hopefully you've realized you'll need a valid passport. If you already have a passport, now is the time to make sure it isn't expired or even too close to expiring (some countries and airlines won't let you travel unless your passport is valid for 6 months beyond the end date of your trip). If you've never had a passport then it's time to apply for one. Below is all the crucial info you need to know, and while this is tailored to getting a passport for the United States, the process is similar in most countries.