How much does a U.S. passport cost in 2026?

A passport book costs $130 (application fee) plus a $35 execution fee, totaling $165 for adults. A passport card is $30 plus the $35 execution fee. Expedited processing adds $60. Minors under 16 pay $100 plus the $35 fee.

What photo do I need for a passport application?

You need a 2x2 inch color photo taken within the last 6 months. It must have a plain white background, show your full face with both eyes open, and be taken without glasses. Many pharmacies and shipping stores offer passport photos.

2026 Official Version

Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport

Apply for your first U.S. passport online in 2026. Fill out the official State Department DS-11 form — secure, accurate, and ready to submit at your local acceptance facility.

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What is Form DS-11?

The official application for your first U.S. passport

Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) is the official State Department form used for first-time passport applications, minors under 16, and adults whose previous passport was lost, stolen, damaged, or issued more than 15 years ago. Unlike passport renewals (which use Form DS-82 and can be mailed), DS-11 applications must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility, passport agency, or U.S. embassy/consulate.

The DS-11 application covers both passport books (for international air travel) and passport cards (for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda). You can apply for either or both at the same time. Processing times for 2026 range from 4-6 weeks for routine service to 2-3 weeks for expedited service, with an additional fee of $60 for expedited processing.

DS-11 vs. DS-82: If you're renewing an existing passport (issued within the last 15 years, when you were 16+, undamaged, in your name), use Form DS-82 and mail it — no appointment needed. Use DS-11 for first-time applications or if your passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.

Who Needs to Use Form DS-11?

When you must apply in person

Use DS-11 If:

This is your first U.S. passport
You're under age 16
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 16
Your name changed and you can't document it legally

Use DS-82 Instead If:

You're renewing an existing passport
Your 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)
You can mail the application (no in-person visit required)

Special Situations: When DS-11 Rules Change

Lost passport, name change, minors, second passport, and overseas applicants

Lost or Stolen Passport: DS-64 and DS-11

If your passport was lost or stolen, you must report it to invalidate it before or while applying for a replacement. You can report on Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport) separately — by mail or online — or you can report the loss directly on the DS-11 application itself. Filing DS-64 online or by mail first is the fastest way to cancel the lost document immediately; if you report only through DS-11, cancellation may take several weeks. See our DS-64 form page for the standalone report.

Note: If you report a passport lost and then find it, you cannot legally use it — it will be cancelled. Contact the State Department to resolve this situation.

Name Change: DS-11 vs. DS-5504

Not every name change requires a DS-11. Use Form DS-5504 (Application for a U.S. Passport — Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport) if your passport was issued less than one year ago and your legal name changed within that same year — DS-5504 carries no application fee (only the optional $60 expedited fee applies).

Use DS-11 (in person) when more than one year has passed since either your passport was issued or the name change occurred, or when you cannot provide a legal name-change document. Accepted name-change documents include:

Marriage certificate
Divorce decree
Court order
Valid government-issued ID in your current name

For undocumented name changes, Form DS-60 (Affidavit Regarding a Change of Name) requires two witnesses who know you by both names, plus three public records showing five years of use under the new name.

Minors Under 16: DS-3053 Parental Consent

Children under 16 must apply using DS-11, and both parents (or legal guardians) must consent. The ideal scenario is both parents appearing in person with the child. When that is not possible:

Non-appearing parent: Must sign and have notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) and provide a photocopy of the photo ID shown to the notary. DS-3053 must be submitted within 90 days of notarization. Electronic notarization is accepted where permitted by state law (provide a printed copy). Parents in certain countries (Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Syria, Yemen, and others) must notarize at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Unable to locate other parent: Use Form DS-5525 (Statement of Special Family Circumstances). The State Department may request additional evidence such as custody orders or documentation related to parental child-abduction concerns.
Sole custody: Bring a court order granting sole custody or passport permission, a certified birth certificate or adoption decree listing only one parent, a death certificate, or a judicial declaration of incompetence.

For a detailed walkthrough, see our complete DS-11 passport guide.

Second (Additional) Passport

The State Department may issue a second valid passport to travelers who need simultaneous visa processing in multiple countries, travel to countries that refuse entry based on passport stamps (e.g., Israel/certain Arab states), or frequent business travel where one passport is regularly held by a consulate. A second passport is typically valid for four years. You apply using DS-11 in person, provide evidence of the need (letter from employer, visa application receipts, or previous passport showing conflicting stamps), and pay the standard application and execution fees. Verify current eligibility criteria on travel.state.gov.

Applying for a Passport Outside the U.S.

U.S. citizens abroad apply for their first passport (or replace a lost/stolen one) at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate using Form DS-11. The in-person requirement still applies — you cannot mail a DS-11 from overseas. Key differences for overseas applicants:

Fees are paid in local currency or by methods accepted by the specific post — confirm in advance.
Processing times may vary; many posts can issue an emergency passport for immediate travel needs.
Photo requirements are identical to domestic standards (2x2 inches, white background).
Parents applying for a child's passport overseas must still present DS-3053 if one parent is absent; notarization must occur at a U.S. embassy or consulate in countries listed as exceptions.

Find the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate at usembassy.gov.

Passport Fees & Options for 2026

What it costs and how long it takes

Adult Passport Book (16+)

Application Fee: $130
Execution Fee: $35
Total: $165
Valid for: 10 years
Pages: 28 standard / 52 frequent traveler

Minor Passport Book (Under 16)

Application Fee: $100
Execution Fee: $35
Total: $135
Valid for: 5 years
Requirement: Both parents must consent

Passport Card (All Ages)

Application Fee: $30 (adult) / $15 (minor)
Execution Fee: $35
Total: $65 (adult) / $50 (minor)
Valid for: Land/sea travel only
Good for: Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Bermuda

Processing Options

Routine: 4-6 weeks (6-8 weeks w/ mail)
Expedited: 2-3 weeks + $60
Urgent (agency): 24-72 hours
Express Return: 1-3 days + $22.05
Passport Photo: $10-20 at pharmacies

How to Complete Form DS-11

Step-by-step instructions for first-time passport applicants

Personal Information (Items 1-9)

Item 1: Full legal name as shown on citizenship evidence (first, middle, last)
Item 2: Have you ever applied for or been issued a U.S. passport? (Yes/No)
Item 3-5: If yes to Item 2, provide passport details (number, issue date, status)
Item 6: Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
Item 7: Social Security Number (required for U.S. citizens)
Item 8: Place of birth (city, state if U.S.; city, country if abroad)
Item 9: Sex (Male, Female, or X for non-binary/unspecified)

Contact Information (Items 10-13)

Item 10: Email address (optional but recommended for status updates)
Item 11: Primary phone number (include area code)
Item 12: Mailing address (where your passport will be sent)
Item 13: Permanent address (if different from mailing address)

Physical Characteristics & Parents (Items 14-19)

Item 14: Height (feet and inches)
Item 15: Hair color
Item 16: Eye color
Item 17: Occupation (for identification purposes)
Items 18-19: Parents' full names and dates/places of birth (helps verify citizenship for U.S.-born applicants)

Travel Plans & Emergency Contact (Items 20-24)

Item 20: Planned travel date (optional but helps with urgent processing)
Item 21: Countries you plan to visit
Item 22-24: Emergency contact — name, address, and phone number of someone not traveling with you

Passport Selection & Signature (Items 25-27)

Item 25: Choose passport book, card, or both
Item 26: Passport book size (28 pages standard or 52 pages for frequent travelers)
Item 27: DO NOT SIGN UNTIL AT THE ACCEPTANCE FACILITY — you must sign in front of the acceptance agent

Documents You Need for DS-11

What to bring to your passport appointment

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Bring original or certified copy: U.S. birth certificate issued by city, county, or state (with raised seal), previous U.S. passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240), Certificate of Naturalization (N-550/N-570), or Certificate of Citizenship (N-560/N-561).

2. Photo ID (In Good Condition)

Must show current appearance: Valid driver's license, government employee ID, military ID, Certificate of Naturalization, or previous U.S. passport. Must be in good condition with a recognizable photo. Expired IDs up to 15 years old are acceptable.

3. Passport Photo (2x2 inches)

Taken within last 6 months: Color photo, 2x2 inches, plain white/off-white background, no glasses, both eyes open, neutral expression. Available at CVS, Walgreens, FedEx, UPS Store, AAA, and post offices ($10-20).

4. Payment (Check or Money Order)

Two separate payments: Application fee ($130 adult book / $30 card) payable by check or money order to "U.S. Department of State." Execution fee ($35) paid separately at the acceptance facility — some locations accept credit cards.

Passport Photo Requirements for 2026

Your photo must meet strict State Department specifications

Required

Exactly 2x2 inches (51x51 mm)
Color photo (no black and white)
Taken within last 6 months
Plain white or off-white background
Full face, looking directly at camera
Both eyes open and visible
Neutral expression (no smiling)
Head 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to crown
High resolution (300 DPI minimum)
Printed on photo-quality paper

Not Allowed

Eyeglasses (unless medically necessary with doctor's note)
Hats or head coverings (except religious/medical with statement)
Hair covering eyes or eyebrows
Uniforms or camouflage clothing
Headphones or wireless devices
Shadows on face or background
AI filters or digital retouching
Filters that alter skin tone or eye color
Photos older than 6 months

Where to get passport photos: CVS, Walgreens, FedEx Office, UPS Store, AAA, Costco Photo Center, and many post offices offer passport photo services for $10-20. Bring a plain outfit and arrive without glasses or hats.

The DS-11 Application Process

From form completion to passport arrival

Fill Out Form DS-11 Online

Complete the form using our fillable PDF tool. You can save your progress and return later. Do not sign the form — you'll sign it in front of the acceptance agent.

Gather Required Documents

Collect your citizenship evidence (birth certificate, naturalization certificate), photo ID, one 2x2 passport photo, and payment (check/money order for application fee, cash/card for execution fee).

Find a Passport Acceptance Facility

Locate your nearest facility at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Most post offices, public libraries, and county clerk offices accept passport applications. Some require appointments — call ahead.

Submit In Person

Bring everything to the acceptance facility. The agent will review your documents, witness your signature, administer an oath, collect the execution fee ($35), and submit your application to the State Department.

Track & Receive

Track your application status at passportstatus.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of SSN. Your citizenship documents will be returned separately from your passport.

Urgent Travel: Regional Passport Agency Appointments

When you need a passport faster than routine or expedited service

If you have international travel within 14 calendar days (or need a foreign visa within 28 days), you may qualify for an appointment at one of the State Department's 23 regional passport agencies and centers. These appointments are for genuinely urgent travel — routine processing is not available at agencies.

No fee for the appointment itself. Avoid third-party services charging for "appointment access" — official appointments through the State Department are always free.

How to Book a Passport Agency Appointment

If you have not yet applied: Use the Online Passport Appointment System on travel.state.gov. Enter your travel date to verify eligibility, confirm via email and text, then select your preferred date and location. Confirm within 15 minutes via the emailed link or the slot is released.
If you already submitted an application: Call 1-877-487-2778 (Mon–Fri 8am–10pm ET, Sat–Sun 10am–3pm ET) with your application locator number.

Bring proof of imminent travel (flight itinerary or booking confirmation), your completed DS-11 (unsigned until in front of the agent), all required documents, and payment. The agency appointment is separate from routine or expedited processing — plan for the expedited fee ($60) plus express return shipping ($22.05) in addition to standard fees.

Common DS-11 Mistakes to Avoid

Errors that delay passport processing

Signing the Form Before Your Appointment

You must sign Form DS-11 in front of an acceptance agent who will witness your signature. If you sign it at home, the agent will require you to fill out a new form.

Non-Compliant Passport Photo

Photos with shadows, wearing glasses, wrong size (not exactly 2x2 inches), or taken more than 6 months ago will be rejected. Get professional passport photos to avoid delays.

Wrong Type of Birth Certificate

Hospital souvenir birth certificates, baby footprint certificates, and abstract birth certificates (without parents' names) are not acceptable. You need a certified copy from the city, county, or state vital records office with a raised seal.

Missing Parental Consent (Minors)

For children under 16, both parents (or legal guardian) must appear in person with the child, or one parent must bring a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) from the non-appearing parent. Sole custody requires court documentation.

Incorrect Payment Method

The application fee must be paid by check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State" (not cash). The execution fee ($35) is paid separately at the facility. Some locations accept credit/debit cards for the execution fee.

Applying Too Close to Travel Date

Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks including mailing time. If you're traveling in less than 8 weeks, pay for expedited service ($60 extra for 4-5 week turnaround). For travel within 2 weeks, schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs to use Form DS-11?

Form DS-11 is required for first-time passport applicants, children under 16 (even if renewing), applicants whose previous passport was lost/stolen/damaged, and those whose last passport was issued more than 15 years ago or when they were under 16. DS-11 must be submitted in person — you cannot mail it.

How much does a passport cost with Form DS-11?

For adults (16+), a passport book costs $165 total ($130 application fee + $35 execution fee). A passport card is $65 ($30 + $35). Minors under 16 pay $135 for a book ($100 + $35) or $50 for a card ($15 + $35). Expedited processing adds $60. Optional expedited shipping adds $21.36.

How long does it take to get a passport in 2026?

Routine processing takes 4-6 weeks from when the State Department receives your application (6-8 weeks door-to-door including mailing time). Expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks and costs an extra $60 (4-5 weeks total). For urgent travel within a week, schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency for 24-72 hour processing.

Can I fill out Form DS-11 online and mail it?

No. Form DS-11 must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility (post office, library, county clerk), passport agency, or U.S. embassy/consulate. You can fill it out online using our tool and print it, but you must take it in person to have your signature witnessed. Do not sign it before your appointment.

What is the difference between DS-11 and DS-82?

DS-11 is for first-time passport applications and must be submitted in person ($165 adult book). DS-82 is for passport renewals and can be mailed ($130 book, no execution fee) — you don't need an appointment. Use DS-82 only if your current passport is undamaged, was issued within 15 years, and was issued when you were 16 or older.

Where can I submit Form DS-11?

DS-11 is accepted at over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities nationwide, including most post offices, many public libraries, and county clerk offices. Find your nearest location at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Some facilities require appointments — call ahead. You can also apply at regional passport agencies (appointment required) for faster processing.

Do I need a passport book or passport card?

A passport book is required for all international air travel. A passport card is valid only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda — it cannot be used for flights. Most travelers choose the book ($165). If you frequently cross land borders, you can get both for $225 ($165 book + $30 card + $35 execution fee).

What if both parents can't appear for a child's passport?

For children under 16, both parents (or legal guardians) must consent to the passport application. If only one parent can appear, the non-appearing parent must complete Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) and have it notarized — it must be submitted within 90 days of notarization. Provide a photocopy of the ID the absent parent showed the notary. If one parent has sole custody, bring a court order, death certificate, or other legal proof. If one parent cannot be located, use Form DS-5525 (Statement of Special Family Circumstances) instead of DS-3053.

Do I need Form DS-64 before filing DS-11 for a lost passport?

You do not have to file Form DS-64 as a separate step before applying. You can report the loss directly on Form DS-11 itself. However, filing DS-64 online or by mail first is the fastest way to immediately cancel your lost passport — cancellation via DS-11 alone may take several weeks. If DS-11 lacks complete loss details, the State Department may pause your application and request DS-64 anyway.

What is Form DS-5504, and how is it different from DS-11?

Form DS-5504 (Application for a U.S. Passport — Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport) is a no-fee alternative when your passport was issued less than one year ago and your legal name changed within that same year. If more than one year has passed, or if you lack a legal name-change document, you must use DS-11 and apply in person. DS-5504 requires the same accepted name-change documents: marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or valid ID in your current name.

Can I get a second U.S. passport while my first is still valid?

Yes, in limited circumstances. The State Department may issue a second passport to travelers who need simultaneous visa processing in multiple countries, who travel to countries that deny entry based on passport stamps, or who have frequent professional travel where one passport is routinely held by a consulate. You apply with DS-11 in person and must provide evidence of the need (employer letter, visa application receipts, or stamps showing conflicting entry requirements). A second passport is typically issued with a shorter validity period. Verify current policy on travel.state.gov before applying.

How do I apply for a passport if I'm already outside the United States?

U.S. citizens abroad apply for a first passport (or replace a lost/stolen one) using Form DS-11 at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate — the in-person requirement still applies. Processing times vary by post; an emergency passport may be issued for immediate travel needs. Fees are paid in local currency or by methods accepted at that post. Photo requirements are the same as domestic. Find your nearest post at usembassy.gov.

How do I book an urgent appointment at a regional passport agency?

Regional passport agency appointments are available if you have international travel within 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa within 28 days. If you have not yet applied, book through the Online Passport Appointment System on travel.state.gov (no fee — avoid third-party booking services). If you already submitted an application, call 1-877-487-2778 (Mon–Fri 8am–10pm ET, Sat–Sun 10am–3pm ET) with your application locator number. Bring proof of imminent travel, your unsigned DS-11, all supporting documents, and payment for expedited service.

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