Obtaining a U.S. passport is an important step after becoming a U.S. citizen. A U.S. passport serves as proof of citizenship and allows international travel under the protection of the United States government.
This guide explains the passport application process step by step so you understand what documents are needed, how to apply, and what to expect.
Before You Apply: Confirm Your Eligibility
You may apply for a U.S. passport if you are:
A U.S. citizen by birth
A naturalized U.S. citizen
A child who acquired or derived citizenship through parents
Important: First-time applicants must apply in person.
Step 1: Determine Which Form You Need
The most commonly used forms are:
Form DS-11
Used if:
You are applying for your first U.S. passport
Your previous passport was issued before age 16
Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
Your previous passport expired more than 15 years ago
Form DS-82
Used if:
You are renewing an adult passport
Your previous passport is undamaged and available
The passport was issued within the last 15 years
The passport was issued after age 16
Form DS-64
Used to report a lost or stolen passport.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You must provide supporting documents with your passport application.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Provide one of the following:
● Certificate of Naturalization
● U.S. birth certificate
● Certificate of Citizenship
● Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
● Previous U.S. passport
Important: Submit the original or certified copy.
Proof of Identity
Provide a valid government-issued photo ID such as:
● Driver’s license
● State ID card
● Previous U.S. passport
● Military ID
Bring both:
● Original ID
● Photocopy of front and back
Passport Photo Requirements
You must submit:
● One recent passport-sized photo
Photo requirements:
● 2x2 inches
● White background
● No filters or heavy editing
● Neutral facial expression
● No glasses
Photos taken within the last 6 months are recommended.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the required form carefully.
Important guidelines:
● Use black ink if completing by hand
● Do not sign Form DS-11 until instructed by the passport acceptance agent
● Ensure all information matches your identity documents exactly
Common information requested:
● Full legal name
● Date and place of birth
● Social Security Number
● Address and contact information
● Parents’ information
● Travel plans (optional)
Step 4: Pay the Filing Fees
Passport fees vary depending on:
● Passport book or card
● Applicant age
● Routine or expedited processing
Typical fees may include:
● Application fee
● Execution/acceptance fee
● Expedited service fee (optional)
● Overnight shipping fee (optional)
Always verify the latest fee schedule before filing.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
First-Time Applicants
You must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility such as:
● Post office
● County clerk office
● Public library
● Passport agency
Bring:
● Completed application form
● Citizenship evidence
● Photo ID
● Passport photo
● Filing fees
Renewal Applicants
Eligible applicants using Form DS-82 may submit their application by mail.
Step 6: Track Your Passport Application
After submission, you may track your application status online.
Typical statuses include:
● Not Available
● In Process
● Approved
● Mailed
Routine processing times may vary depending on application volume.
Step 7: Receive Your Passport
Once approved:
● Your passport book/card will be mailed to you
● Citizenship documents are usually returned separately
Review your passport immediately after receiving it.
Check:
● Name spelling
● Date of birth
● Gender
● Passport validity dates
Report any printing errors immediately.
Applying for a Child’s U.S. Passport
Special rules apply for children under age 16.
Requirements include:
● Both parents generally must appear in person
● Child must appear in person
● Proof of parental relationship required
● Consent documentation if one parent cannot appear
Documents commonly used:
● Child’s birth certificate
● Parents’ photo IDs
● Passport photo of child
Expedited Processing
If urgent travel is needed, expedited processing may be requested.
Additional options may include:
● Expedited service fee
● Expedited shipping
● Emergency appointment at a passport agency
Proof of urgent travel may be required for emergency appointments.
Common Reasons for Delay
Passport applications may be delayed because of:
● Missing documents
● Incorrect application information
● Unsigned forms
● Improper passport photos
● Citizenship document issues
● Name mismatches
● Insufficient fees
Carefully review everything before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel while my passport application is pending?
It is generally not recommended unless you already possess another valid travel document.
How long is a U.S. passport valid?
● Adults (16 and older): 10 years
● Children under 16: 5 years
Can I apply for both a passport book and card?
Yes. You may apply for both simultaneously.
What is the difference between a passport book and passport card?
The passport book is valid for all international travel by air, sea, and land. The passport card is
limited to land and sea travel from certain countries.
What happens if my passport is lost or stolen?
You should report it immediately using Form DS-64 and apply for a replacement passport.
Important Tips
● Keep copies of all submitted documents
● Double-check names and dates for consistency
● Use a secure mailing method if applying by mail
● Monitor your application status regularly
● Keep your passport in a safe place after receiving it
Final Thoughts
Applying for a U.S. passport is a straightforward process when the application is properly
prepared and all required documents are included. Careful attention to detail can help avoid
delays and ensure smooth processing.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, citizenship evidence, or supporting documents, it is always best to seek legal guidance before submitting your application.
