Fill out the Application for Passport, Form DS-11. You can download this form online and bring it with you when you apply for your passport.
Get two passport photos taken. The identical photos must be 2 inches by 2 inches. The pictures must offer a full, frontal view of your face, from the top of your head through your shoulders. The photo must be taken with a plain white background. Many post offices, photo studios and mail box locations take passport photos for a nominal fee.
Bring one of the following to the Passport Acceptance Facility to prove citizenship: previous U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship.
Bring proof of identity. A current driver's license, government or military ID are the most common forms of identification. You can also bring a previous U.S. passport or naturalization certificate.
Locate the Passport Acceptance Facility nearest you. Use the U.S. Department of State Web site to find the nearest facility. You simply input your zip code and the Web site will generate a list of acceptance facilities in your area.
You must pay both a passport application fee and an execution fee to get your passport. You will turn in these fees when you file your application. It takes about six weeks after filing to receive your U.S. passport. If you are traveling soon, you can pay an additional fee for Expedited Service and get your passport within two weeks.
