How to Apply for a New U.S. Passport

Applying for a new passport can be a daunting task. If you are applying for U.S. passport for the first time, here are some important instructions for you to follow.

1. You must apply in person if:

• You are below age 16; or


• You are applying for your first U.S. passport 

2. Fill out Form DS-11: The application form for U.S. passport

• Your Passport & Visa services provider will help you fill out the application form. Make sure that you take out a print form and fill it up by hand


• Do not sign the application form until you are instructed to do so by the Acceptance Agent


• You must provide your Social Security Number according to 26 U.S.C. 6039E. If you are unable to provide all information requested on the form, it may result in denial or delays in processing your application

3. Submit Form DS-11 in person

If you are applying for a new passport, you must submit the duly filled up form DS-11 in person only at an authorized Passport Agency or Passport Application Acceptance Facility. If you are dealing with an authorized passport and visa service provider, ask them whether they are eligible of accepting Form DS-11.

4. Submit evidence of U.S. citizenship

When you are applying in person, you must also submit evidence of U.S. citizenship in addition to your Form DS-11. All documents submitted by you will be returned and delivered to you with your newly issued passport or in a separate mail. You must submit one of the following documents:

• Certified U.S. birth certificate


• Certificate of citizenship


• Naturalization certificate


• Consular report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth

5. Present Identification

When you apply for a U.S. passport in person, authorized identification documentation with photograph must be presented at the time of applying

• Fully valid driver’s license


• Certificate of citizenship and naturalization


• Current military ID


• Current government ID

6. Submit a photocopy of identification documents presented

You must submit photocopy of the front and back of each ID document that you will present at the time of application. Ask your passport & visa services provider about the specifications of photocopy, and make sure that you duly follow the instructions to prevent getting your application denied or delayed.

7. Pay the application fee

Please contact your passport agency to know details about the applicable fee and acceptable modes of payment. Online payment of application fee is not available now.

8. Provide a passport photo

You must submit one passport photo with your application. Make sure that your photo meets all the acceptable specifications and is submitted properly with the application. When you are applying for new passport, do not attach the photo to the form.