Applying for your first U.S. passport is a rite of passage — whether you’re preparing for that long-awaited European vacation, accepting a job that requires international travel, or simply want the world’s most powerful travel document in your wallet. The process begins with Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport), and while it requires an in-person visit, it’s more straightforward than most people expect.
Unlike passport renewals (which can be mailed using Form DS-82), first-time applicants must appear in person at one of over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities across the United States. This guide walks you through the entire process — from deciding whether you need a passport book, card, or both, to tracking your application and receiving your new passport in the mail.
Do You Need Form DS-11 or DS-82?
Before you start, confirm which form applies to your situation. The distinction is critical because using the wrong form will result in rejection.
Use Form DS-11 If:
- This is your first U.S. passport
- You’re under age 16 (even if renewing)
- Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
- Your last passport was issued more than 15 years ago
- Your last passport was issued when you were under age 16
- You can’t document a legal name change with acceptable proof
DS-11 applications must be submitted in person. You cannot mail them.
Use Form DS-82 Instead If:
- You’re renewing an existing passport
- Your current passport is undamaged and in your possession
- It was issued within the last 15 years
- You were 16 or older when it was issued
- It’s in your current name, or you have legal proof of name change
DS-82 can be mailed — no appointment needed. For most people, DS-82 is the easier option, but first-time applicants don’t qualify.
Bottom line: If you’ve never had a passport, you need DS-11 and an in-person visit.
What It Costs to Get a U.S. Passport in 2026
Passport fees are set by the State Department and are the same nationwide — whether you apply at a post office in rural Montana or a passport agency in New York City.
Adult Passport Book (Age 16 and Older)
| Fee Type | Amount | Payable To |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $130 | U.S. Department of State |
| Execution Fee | $35 | Acceptance facility |
| Total | $165 | — |
| Valid for | 10 years | — |
Minor Passport Book (Under Age 16)
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $100 | Check/money order |
| Execution Fee | $35 | Cash/card at facility |
| Total | $135 | — |
| Valid for | 5 years | Both parents must consent |
Passport Card (Land/Sea Travel Only)
- Adult card: $30 application + $35 execution = $65 total
- Minor card: $15 application + $35 execution = $50 total
- Valid for travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (not valid for international flights)
Optional Add-Ons
- Expedited processing: $60 (reduces processing from 6-8 weeks to 4-5 weeks)
- Expedited shipping: $21.36 (1-2 day delivery via Priority Mail Express)
- Passport photo: $10-20 at pharmacies, shipping stores, or photo studios
Total cost for most first-time adult applicants: $165 (routine) or $225 (expedited with fast shipping).
Processing Times for 2026
The State Department has returned to consistent, predictable processing times after the pandemic-era backlogs.
| Service Level | Processing Time | Total Time (w/ Mailing) | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine | 4-6 weeks | 6-8 weeks | Included |
| Expedited | 2-3 weeks | 4-5 weeks | $60 |
| Urgent (agency appointment) | 24-72 hours | 1-2 days with expedited shipping | Varies |
Important notes:
- Processing time begins when the State Department receives your application at a processing center — not when you submit it at an acceptance facility
- Add 1-2 weeks for mail delivery (each way) if not paying for expedited shipping
- Peak seasons (January–March and May–August) may experience delays
- Apply at least 8 weeks before international travel for routine service
Pro tip: If you’re traveling in 6-8 weeks, pay for expedited processing ($60) to build in buffer time. If you’re traveling in less than 2 weeks, call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency (requires proof of imminent travel).
Documents You Need for Your DS-11 Application
The State Department has strict document requirements. Bring everything on this checklist to your passport appointment to avoid delays or rejection.
1. Completed Form DS-11 (Do Not Sign It Yet)
Fill out the form online using our tool or print a blank form and complete it by hand in black ink. Do not sign the form — you must sign it in front of the acceptance agent who will witness your signature.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original or Certified Copy)
Acceptable documents:
- U.S. birth certificate issued by city, county, or state (with registrar’s raised, embossed, or multicolored seal)
- Previous U.S. passport (even if expired)
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240 or FS-545)
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)
Not acceptable:
- Hospital souvenir birth certificates (with baby footprints)
- Abstract birth certificates that don’t show parents’ names
- Birth certificates issued more than one year after birth (require additional documentation)
- Photocopies of any kind
3. Photo Identification
One valid government-issued ID showing your current appearance:
- Driver’s license (most common)
- State-issued non-driver ID card
- Current government employee ID
- U.S. military ID
- Certificate of Naturalization (if recently naturalized)
- Previous U.S. passport (even if expired up to 15 years)
Your ID doesn’t need to be current — expired IDs up to 15 years old are acceptable as long as the photo is recognizable.
4. One Passport Photo (2x2 Inches)
See the detailed photo requirements section below. Most acceptance facilities can tell immediately if your photo won’t pass muster — get professional photos from CVS, Walgreens, or a shipping store to be safe.
5. Payment
- Application fee: Check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State”
- Execution fee: $35 paid directly to the acceptance facility (many accept cash or credit card)
Do not mail cash. Never send cash through the mail for passport applications.
Passport Photo Requirements: The Complete Checklist
Your passport photo is one of the most common reasons for application delays. The State Department’s requirements are strict, and non-compliant photos are rejected outright.
Size and Composition
- Exactly 2 inches by 2 inches (51mm x 51mm) — no variation accepted
- Head size: 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25-35mm) from chin to top of head
- Head must be centered vertically in the frame
- Photo must be high resolution (300 DPI or higher)
- Printed on photo-quality paper (matte or glossy)
Background and Lighting
- Plain white or off-white background with no patterns, shadows, or objects
- Even lighting with no shadows on face or background
- No red-eye
- Natural skin tones (no filters or heavy retouching)
Your Appearance in the Photo
Required:
- Taken within the last 6 months (must show current appearance)
- Full face directly facing the camera
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- Neutral expression — natural, closed-mouth smile is acceptable (no wide grins or frowns)
- Head uncovered (religious/medical exceptions allowed with statement)
Not Allowed:
- Eyeglasses (major rule change — glasses are no longer permitted unless you have a signed medical statement)
- Sunglasses or tinted glasses
- Hats, headbands, or head coverings (except for religious observance with signed statement)
- Hair covering your eyes or eyebrows
- Uniforms or camouflage clothing
- Headphones, earbuds, or wireless devices visible
- AI filters or digital alterations that change your appearance
Where to Get Passport Photos
Professional passport photo services are available at:
- CVS Pharmacy — $15-17
- Walgreens — $15-17
- FedEx Office — $15-18
- UPS Store — $15-20
- AAA (members) — $10-15
- Costco Photo Center — $5-8 (members only)
- Post offices — Many locations offer photos for ~$15
DIY option: You can take your own photo using a smartphone and a plain white wall, then print it on photo paper at a drugstore kiosk. However, if you’re not confident in your ability to meet all the specs, professional photos are worth the $15 to avoid rejection.
Where to Submit Your DS-11 Application
Form DS-11 must be submitted in person at a designated location. You have three options, depending on your timeline and location.
Option 1: Passport Acceptance Facilities (Most Common)
Over 9,000 locations nationwide accept passport applications, including:
- Post offices (most common — USPS processes over 70% of passport applications)
- Public libraries
- County clerk offices
- City halls
- Court clerks
How to find one near you: Visit iafdb.travel.state.gov and search by ZIP code. The database shows hours, whether appointments are required, and contact information.
Processing time: 6-8 weeks routine / 4-5 weeks expedited (from when the State Department receives your application)
Option 2: Regional Passport Agencies (For Urgent Travel)
If you’re traveling within 14 days (or need a foreign visa within 4 weeks), you can apply at one of 26 regional passport agencies. Appointments are required and you must show proof of imminent international travel (flight itinerary, hotel confirmation, etc.).
How to schedule: Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (8 AM – 5 PM ET on business days). Appointments fill up fast — call as early as possible.
Processing time: 24-72 hours (with proof of travel within 3 business days, you may get same-day service)
Option 3: U.S. Embassy or Consulate (If Living Abroad)
U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad can apply for passports at U.S. embassies and consulates using Form DS-11. Processing times vary by location — contact the specific embassy for details.
Step-by-Step: Filling Out Form DS-11
Form DS-11 is four pages, but only the first two pages require your input. Here’s exactly what goes where.
Page 1: Personal Information
Full Name (Item 1) Enter your full legal name exactly as shown on your citizenship evidence. Use your legal first name (not a nickname), full middle name, and legal last name. If you go by a different name, it must match your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or court-ordered name change.
Previous Passport (Items 2-5) If you’ve ever been issued a U.S. passport — even if it’s expired, lost, or was issued when you were a child — answer “Yes” and provide the details (passport number if known, issue date, status). The State Department can look up your previous passport in their system if you don’t remember the number.
Date and Place of Birth (Items 6-8) Enter your date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY format), Social Security Number (required for U.S. citizens), and place of birth. If born in the U.S., list city and state. If born abroad, list city and country.
Sex (Item 9) You can select Male, Female, or X (non-binary/unspecified). Your selection will appear on your passport.
Page 2: Contact Information & Physical Description
Contact Details (Items 10-13) Provide your email, phone number, mailing address (where your passport will be sent), and permanent address (if different). The State Department strongly recommends providing an email — you’ll receive status updates as your application progresses.
Physical Description (Items 14-16) Height in feet and inches, hair color, and eye color. This information appears on your passport and must be reasonably accurate.
Occupation (Item 17) Your current job or profession. This is for identification purposes — students can write “student,” retirees can write “retired.”
Page 3: Parents’ Information
Parents’ Names and Birth Details (Items 18-19) List your mother’s and father’s full names (at birth) and their dates and places of birth. This helps the State Department verify your U.S. citizenship, especially if you were born in the United States. You don’t need to know their Social Security Numbers.
Page 4: Travel Plans & Emergency Contact
Travel Plans (Items 20-21) Planned travel date and countries you intend to visit. While optional, providing this information helps if you’re requesting expedited processing or if there’s a delay.
Emergency Contact (Items 22-24) Name, address, and phone number of someone not traveling with you who can be contacted in an emergency. This person should be a close family member or friend.
Passport Selection (Items 25-26) Choose whether you want a passport book, card, or both. Select the book size (28 pages standard or 52 pages for frequent travelers — no extra fee for 52 pages).
Signature (Item 27) Leave this blank. You’ll sign in front of the acceptance agent during your appointment.
The DS-11 Application Process: What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
- Complete Form DS-11 using our online tool or by hand in black ink
- Gather documents — citizenship evidence, photo ID, passport photo, payment
- Locate your nearest acceptance facility at iafdb.travel.state.gov
- Call ahead — some locations require appointments, others accept walk-ins during specific hours
- Don’t sign the form — you’ll do this at the facility
At the Acceptance Facility
When you arrive:
- Present your completed DS-11, documents, photo, and payment
- The agent reviews your documents for completeness and accuracy
- You sign the form in front of the agent (they witness your signature)
- The agent administers a brief oath (you affirm the information is true)
- Pay the $35 execution fee directly to the facility
- The agent submits your application to the State Department
The entire appointment typically takes 15-30 minutes if you have all required documents.
After You Apply
Your citizenship documents (birth certificate, naturalization certificate) are returned separately from your passport — usually within 2 weeks of submission. Your passport arrives later based on the processing option you chose.
Track your application: Visit passportstatus.state.gov and enter your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security Number. Status updates include:
- Not Available — Application received, not yet in processing
- In Process — Application is being reviewed
- Approved — Passport has been printed and will mail soon
- Shipped — Passport is in the mail (you’ll get a tracking number)
Passport Book vs. Passport Card: Which Do You Need?
Most first-time applicants aren’t sure whether they need a book, card, or both. Here’s the breakdown.
Passport Book ($165 for adults)
Use for:
- All international air travel
- Travel to any country worldwide
- Most versatile travel document
Valid for:
- 10 years (adults age 16+)
- 5 years (minors under 16)
Size options:
- 28 pages (standard) — sufficient for most travelers
- 52 pages (frequent traveler) — no extra cost, good for 10+ international trips per year
When to choose: If you’re flying internationally anywhere, you need a passport book. It’s accepted at all international airports, border crossings, and ports.
Passport Card ($65 for adults)
Use for:
- Land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda only
- Cannot be used for international flights
- Fits in your wallet (driver’s license size)
Valid for:
- 10 years (adults)
- 5 years (minors)
When to choose: If you frequently cross land borders to Canada or Mexico (road trips, day trips, weekend getaways), a passport card is convenient and wallet-sized. However, it cannot be used for flights — even flights to Canada or Mexico.
Getting Both
You can apply for both at the same time:
- Adults: $165 (book) + $30 (card) + $35 (execution fee) = $230 total
- Minors: $100 (book) + $15 (card) + $35 (execution fee) = $150 total
Recommendation: For most first-time applicants, the passport book alone is the best choice. Add a card only if you frequently drive to Canada or Mexico and want the convenience of a wallet-sized card for land crossings.
Common DS-11 Mistakes That Delay Applications
1. Signing the Form Before Your Appointment
This is the most common error. Form DS-11 requires a witnessed signature — you must sign in front of an authorized acceptance agent. If you sign it at home, the agent will make you complete a new form, delaying your appointment.
2. Bringing the Wrong Type of Birth Certificate
Not acceptable:
- Hospital souvenir certificates (baby footprints, decorative certificates)
- Abstract or short-form birth certificates (without parents’ names in some states)
- Photocopies, notarized copies, or scanned copies
Acceptable:
- Certified copy from city, county, or state vital records office with a raised, embossed, or multicolored seal
- Original birth certificate issued at the time of birth (if it meets requirements)
If you don’t have a certified birth certificate, order one from your birth state’s vital records office — most states offer online ordering and expedited shipping for $20-40 total.
3. Non-Compliant Passport Photos
Photos are rejected for:
- Wearing eyeglasses (prohibited since 2016 except with doctor’s note)
- Wrong size (not exactly 2x2 inches)
- Shadows on face or background
- Smiling with teeth showing (neutral expression required)
- Photos older than 6 months
- Retouched or filtered photos (no AI beauty filters)
- Head coverings without religious/medical documentation
Solution: Get professional passport photos for $15. They guarantee compliance or will retake them for free.
4. Missing Parental Consent (For Minors Under 16)
Both parents (or legal guardians) must consent to a child’s passport application. Options:
- Both appear in person with the child
- One parent appears with a notarized Form DS-3053 from the non-appearing parent
- One parent with sole custody brings court order, death certificate, or other legal proof
Without proper parental consent, the application will be rejected. Divorced parents both have rights unless a court order specifies otherwise.
5. Incorrect Payment
Common errors:
- Making the application fee check payable to “Passport Services” or “Post Office” (must be “U.S. Department of State”)
- Trying to pay the execution fee with a check to the State Department (paid separately at facility)
- Not bringing any payment (some facilities are cash-only for execution fee)
Correct method:
- Application fee: Check or money order to “U.S. Department of State”
- Execution fee: Paid separately at the facility (ask beforehand if they accept cards)
6. Applying Too Close to Your Travel Date
If you’re traveling in less than 8 weeks, routine processing won’t cut it. You need expedited service ($60 extra) or an agency appointment (for travel within 2 weeks).
Don’t risk it: Even with expedited processing, unexpected delays can occur during peak travel seasons. Apply as early as possible.
Special Situations
Getting a Passport for Your Child
For children under 16, the DS-11 process is more complex due to parental consent requirements.
Both parents must either:
- Appear in person with the child at the acceptance facility, OR
- One parent appears with the child, and the other provides a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent)
Sole custody situations: If one parent has sole legal custody, that parent can apply alone by providing:
- Court order granting sole custody
- Death certificate of the other parent
- Adoption decree (for adopted children)
Important: Child passports are only valid for 5 years and cost $135. When the child turns 16, they’ll need to apply in person again using DS-11 (even though they previously had a passport) because their childhood passport doesn’t qualify for renewal by mail.
Applying for a Passport as a Naturalized Citizen
If you recently became a U.S. citizen through naturalization, congratulations! You can apply for your first U.S. passport immediately.
What you need:
- Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned)
- Your Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570) — this serves as both citizenship evidence AND photo ID
- One passport photo
- Payment
Your Certificate of Naturalization is a dual-purpose document, so you don’t need a separate photo ID. However, if your naturalization certificate doesn’t have a photo (rare for older certificates), bring a driver’s license or state ID.
Lost or Stolen Passport Replacement
If your passport was lost or stolen, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 (you cannot renew by mail with DS-82).
Additional requirement: Before applying, report the lost or stolen passport using Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport). You can submit DS-64 online at travel.state.gov or bring it with your DS-11 application. This invalidates your old passport number and prevents fraudulent use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill out Form DS-11 online?
Yes, you can complete the form online (like with our fillable PDF tool) or fill out a physical form by hand. However, you cannot submit it online — DS-11 must be submitted in person. Print your completed form and bring it to your appointment.
Do I need an appointment to submit DS-11?
It depends on the location. Some acceptance facilities (especially smaller post offices) accept walk-ins during passport hours. Others require appointments scheduled in advance. Call your chosen facility beforehand to ask about their policy and current wait times.
How long is a passport valid?
- Adults (16+): 10 years from issue date
- Minors (under 16): 5 years from issue date
You can apply for renewal (using DS-82) up to 1 year before your passport expires.
Can I travel while my passport application is processing?
If you have a valid passport that hasn’t expired, yes — you can travel while your renewal application processes. However, if you’re applying for your first passport using DS-11, you have no passport and cannot travel internationally (except to some Caribbean destinations that accept a birth certificate for cruise travel).
What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?
Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency (there are 26 nationwide). You’ll need proof of imminent international travel (flight confirmation, hotel booking) showing travel within 14 days. Some agencies offer same-day or next-day service.
Do both parents need to have passports for a child to get one?
No. Parents don’t need to have passports themselves. You’ll need to provide identification (driver’s license or state ID is fine), but you don’t need your own passport to apply for your child’s passport.
Can I use my DS-11 passport to travel immediately?
Yes, as soon as you receive your passport, it’s valid for international travel. There’s no waiting period. Just make sure it won’t expire within 6 months of your trip — many countries require at least 6 months of validity remaining on your passport for entry.
Conclusion
Applying for your first U.S. passport using Form DS-11 is a milestone, and while the process requires an in-person visit and several weeks of processing, it’s well-organized and straightforward once you understand the requirements.
Key takeaways:
- Apply early — at least 8 weeks before international travel for routine processing
- Get professional passport photos — $15 buys peace of mind
- Bring original citizenship documents — certified copies with raised seals, not photocopies
- Don’t sign the form until you’re at the acceptance facility
- For minors under 16, both parents must consent or provide documentation
Ready to apply? Fill out Form DS-11 online using our free, secure fillable PDF tool. Complete the form in 10 minutes, print it, and you’ll be ready for your passport appointment.
Safe travels! ✈️
This guide reflects State Department requirements as of February 2026. Passport fees and processing times are subject to change. For official information, visit travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778.
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