In article ,
(Ron Lee) wrote:

Don't wait until the last minute to get one

http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

I have found the online form to be easier to complete than the paper
form. The online form prompts you for only the information that it
needs. When you have filled in all the blanks, it provides you with a
PDF file that you can print. Add two photographs, checks and you are
good to go.
You can check the status of your application online a week after
submitting your application. It will tell you when to expect delivery of
your completed passport.
Our family submitted our applications last month. There was a family of
four ahead of us, our family of four, and another family of three in
line behind us, all applying for our passports.
The postoffice guys had to call for extra help for the folks who wanted
to mail things.