Has anyone in the USA gotten a passport lately ? I won a trip to Mexico so I need to get one for the first time and god what a joke. I leave July 12th so according to federal time that is quick.

No one really seems to know what the process is to get one I get different answers from every state or federal employee I ask.

It sounds like I need to go to a state run service center with a check for the amount of the passport. Then I pay them a fee via some other form of payment. Then they mail the form with my check to the feds. I also need a photo, and a birth certificate.
So far I got the birth certificate (16 dollars) and a photo (7.00 dollars) Now I need a check or something for 135 dollars maybe still not sure about that one. I haven't had checks for more than ten years I can't believe they can't put a spot for a credit card number on the form.

Any tips ? is this really this ridiculous ?