Applying For Your First U.S. Passport

Only U.S. citizens can apply for a U.S. passport. The U.S. passport allows U.S. citizens to travel internationally. Though not mandatory, the passports are recognized documents used as proof of citizenship. Additionally, they are required to enter the United States after travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

If this is the first time that you are applying for a U.S. passport, you must do it in person at an Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency. Subsequent passport renewals can be done through the mail.

You Must Apply in Person If:

• You are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time
• You are under 16 years of age
• Your current U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16
• Your current U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
• Your current U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago
• Your name has changed since your most current U.S. passport was issued and you are unable to legally document your name change

Process in Submitting a U.S. Passport Application in Person:

1. Filling out Form DS-11, The Application For A U.S. Passport
   
   Complete Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport. Do not sign this application until the Acceptance Agent tells you to.

2. Submit Completed Form DS-11 In Person
   
   You must submit the completed Form DS-11, with all the accompanying relevant documents, in person at an Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency.
   
   Note:Minor children under age 16 must apply for a U.S. passport in person with either parents or guardian(s).

3. Submit Evidence of U.S. Citizenship
   
   When applying for a U.S. passport in person, evidence of U.S. citizenship must be submitted with Form DS-11. All documentation that you submit as proof of your U.S. citizenship will be returned to you with your newly issued U.S. passport or in a separate mailing.
   
   Primary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (One of the following):
   
   
   • Previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport
   • Certified birth certificate
   • Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
   • Naturalization Certificate
   • Certificate of Citizenship

4. Present Identification
   
   When applying for a U.S. passport in person, identification documents of who you are must be included at the time of application. Bring a photocopy of the front and back of each ID document that you bring with you when you apply.
   
   Primary Identification (One of the following):
   
   
   • Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport
   • Naturalization Certificate
   • Valid Driver's License
   • Current Government ID (city, state or federal)
   • Current Military ID (military and dependents)

5. Provide Two Passport Photos
   
   The photographs should be in color and measuring 2 inches by 2 inches. The photos should be a front view of your full face with a white or off-white background. You should not wear a uniform, hat, or other headgear that may obscure your hair in the photo. If you normally wear prescription glasses, then you should wear them in your photo.
   
   To avoid delays in the processing of your application, make sure your photographs meet all the requirements and are properly submitted with your application.
   
   
   • Your photos should not be attached to the form when submitting Form DS-11 in person.
   • When submitting Form DS-82 by mail, staple one photo to the application within the space provided using four vertical staples, one in each corner. Enclose the second photo with your application, unattached.
   
   Note: Vending machine photos are not generally acceptable

Government Fee

The government fee is always required regardless of the type of passport application or services you request. There will be additional fees for expedited passport processing. All government fees are paid to the Department of State.