Choose your preferred passport application location. You can apply for a passport in most post offices, passport agencies, libraries, county clerks, courts and county, state and municipal offices. You may also seek the services of a traveling agency for your application. If you're applying for a passport for the first time, you are required to submit your application in person. If you're renewing a passport issued within the past 15 years, you may be eligible to apply by mail. In such case, check with a passport agency or the State Department website in your place of residence to inquire about the mail service.
Download and print the passport application form (DS-11 for first-time passport applicant and DS-82 for passport renewals) from the State Department's website www.travel.state.gov. You may also get soft or hard copies from passport agencies and application centers.
Fill up the application form completely, then attach two identical passport photos where noted in the form.
Submit the completed form in your chosen application location, along with other original copies and photocopies of documentary requirements including: proof of U.S. citizenship such as birth certificate or naturalization certificate; and proof of identity such as a valid driver's license or any other valid government ID. Pay the applicable fees by money order, personal check, credit card or cash. Since the acceptable modes of payment vary per location, it is best to inquire about this ahead of time. Depending on your chosen application process, you may either submit all requirements in person or send them by mail.
Wait for six to eight weeks for regular processing and receipt of the new passport by mail.
