U.S. Passports ~ Applying & Renewing

 Applying & Renewing a United States Passport:

A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Tammy Searle

Verified Information from  U.S. Department of State

Obtaining a United States passport is a crucial step for any citizen planning to travel internationally. Whether you are applying for your first passport or renewing an expired one, the process involves several steps. This guide will walk you through the process, provide helpful tips, and include links to official U.S. government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Applying for a New Passport

1. Determine Your Eligibility

To apply for a U.S. passport, you must be a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen national. Minors under the age of 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present.  More info here; U.S. Passports

2. Gather Required Documents

The first step in the application process is to gather the necessary documents. These include:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Acceptable documents include a certified U.S. birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Certificate of Naturalization.
• Proof of Identity: Valid forms of identification include a previous U.S. passport, a driver’s license, a government employee ID, a military ID, or a valid foreign passport.
• Passport Photo: You will need a recent, color passport photo that meets specific requirements (e.g., 2x2 inches, white background, no glasses).

For detailed information on acceptable documents, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: U.S. Passport Application Requirements   

Your evidence must be an original or certified, physical copy. A certified copy is any document that has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority. You must submit one of the following documents:

• U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements: 
  • Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
  • Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth
  • Lists your parent(s)' full names
  • Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
  • Has the registrar's signature
  • Has the seal or stamp from the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport 
  • Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our Citizenship Evidence page for more information.

Tips for making a photocopy:

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second, certified copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

Returning your document: They will return your citizenship document up to 8 weeks after you receive your passport.

3. Complete the Application Form

There are two primary forms for applying for a new passport:

• Form DS-11: This form is used for first-time applicants, minors under 16, and individuals who are not eligible to use Form DS-82. The DS-11 form must be submitted in person.
• Form DS-64: This form is used for reporting a lost or stolen passport.

You can fill out these forms online or download and print them from the U.S. Department of State’s website: Passport Forms.    Passport Forms

4. Submit Your Application In Person

New passport applicants must submit their applications in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, public library, or county clerk’s office. To find the nearest acceptance facility, use the Passport Acceptance Facility Search Tool: Acceptance Facility Search.

When you go to submit your application, be sure to bring the following:

• Completed Form DS-11
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• Proof of identity
• Passport photo
• Application fee (check or money order) 

Find a location;

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks? Go to a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks? Make an appointment to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your U.S. embassy or consulate.

5. Pay the Fees

Passport fees vary based on the type of passport book or card you are applying for and your age. Current fee information can be found here: U.S. Passport Fees.

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want expedited service.
• Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  
•  

Adult Applicants (Age 16 and older):

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our Passport Fees page. 

6. Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application, you can track its status online. The U.S. Department of State provides a tool for this: Track My Application.

You can enroll in email updates about your application status, and learn more about each status update.

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your application status is “In Process.” 

How will you send my passport and supporting documents?

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Renewing a Passport 

1. Determine Your Eligibility

You can renew your passport by mail if your most recent passport:

• Is undamaged and can be submitted with your application
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older
• Was issued within the last 15 years
• Was issued in your current name or you can legally document your name change

If you do not meet these criteria, you must apply in person using Form DS-11.

2. Complete the Application Form

Form DS-82 is used for renewing your passport. This form can be completed online or downloaded and printed from the U.S. Department of State’s website: Form DS-82.

3. Submit Your Application by Mail

You must mail your completed Form DS-82, your most recent passport, the passport photo, and the application fee to the address listed on the form. Detailed mailing instructions are provided here: Renew by Mail.

4. Track Your Application Status

As with new passport applications, you can track the status of your renewal application online: Track My Application.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

1. Apply Early

Passport processing times can vary. Routine processing can take up to 10-12 weeks, while expedited processing (for an additional fee) takes 4-6 weeks. Apply well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute issues.

2. Ensure Photo Compliance

Your passport photo must meet strict guidelines. Photos that do not meet these requirements can delay your application. Use the guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of State to ensure your photo is acceptable: Passport Photo Requirements.

3. Double-Check Your Application

Ensure that all information on your application is accurate and complete. Mistakes or omissions can lead to delays. Review the instructions carefully and verify all details before submitting.

4. Use a Secure Mailing Method

When mailing your passport application, use a secure method such as USPS Priority Mail or another trackable service. This ensures your documents can be tracked and provides peace of mind.

5. Keep Copies of All Documents

Make copies of all documents you submit with your application, including your passport photo and payment receipt. This can be helpful in case any issues arise.

6. Check for Recent Changes

Passport application requirements and fees can change. Always check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the most current information before applying: U.S. Passports.

7. Plan for Emergencies

If you need a passport urgently due to a family emergency or imminent travel, you can request an appointment at a passport agency. These appointments are limited and typically reserved for emergency situations. Learn more here: Emergency Passport Services.

8. Utilize Additional Resources

The U.S. Department of State’s website offers a wealth of resources and tools to help with your passport application. Take advantage of these resources to ensure a smooth application process.

Conclusion

• Obtaining or renewing a U.S. passport is a straightforward process when you understand the steps and requirements involved.
• By gathering the necessary documents, completing the appropriate forms, and following the guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of State, you can ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
• Always use official U.S. government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Happy travels!
• For more information and resources, visit the U.S. Department of State’s official passport page: U.S. Passports.