How to Get a Passport
Applying for a passport can seem daunting. Thankfully, the process is rather simple as long as you are prepared and organized. Below is an overview on how to apply for a first-time United States passport for those 18 years or older. If you had a U.S. passport as a minor and are now 18 years or older, you will need to apply using Form DS-11 as discussed in this article.
Important: Processing times for U.S. passports vary and are challenging to predict. If your trip is within the next 4 months, we recommend applying for an expedited passport. To do this, you need to find the soonest available application appointment within driving distance. Second, you will pay an additional $60 expedition fee to get your passport sooner. You cannot travel internationally without a passport so, you need to act swiftly.
Step 1: Locate your driver’s license or other government issued ID, original birth certificate, and original social security card.
You’ll need to make a photocopy of the front and back of your driver’s license. Place all your documents in a folder or Ziplock bag for safe keeping. If you have questions regarding documentation, more information is provided on the application form.
Step 2: Print and complete Form DS-11
Read through the form at least once before you fill it out. If you make any mistakes, you’ll need to print another form and start over. You cannot scratch or white out errors.
Form link: (https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds11.pdf).
Step 3: Schedule an application appointment at an acceptance facility
You can find the nearest location and view appointments here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
Due to appointment availability, you may need to expand your search radius and be willing to travel 1-2 hours to a facility with a sooner appointment.
Step 4: Take passport photos
Prior to your application appointment, you need to get passport photos taken. These should be color 2x2 inch size prints. Your acceptance facility may offer this service. Some do, but all don’t so you need to check. You can also do this at stores like Walgreens, CVS, or Costco.
Step 5: Submit your application
On the day of your appointment, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. You need to bring with you:
Completed Form DS-11
Proof of US citizenship documents
US birth certificate: Submit an original or certified copy and a photocopy of the front and back if there is printed information on the back, of one of the following documents:
OR Fully valid, undamaged US passport
Proof of Identity documents
Driver’s license: original AND front & back photocopy
Recent color photograph
Color 2x2 inch size
For specifics see document
Can get photo taken & printed at Walgreens or CVS
Fee check
New Applicants: $130 + $35 (execution fee) = $165
If you are expediting your passport, there is an additional $60 fee.
Submit a check payable to “U.S. Department of State”
Credit and debit cards not accepted
If you have questions, the National Passport Information Center is available to answer your passport questions at 1-877-487-2778. You can also review the U.S. State Department Passport website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/passport-help.html .
