Download the passport DS-11 form or go to your local post office to pick up a passport application. Fill out the form completely with the correct and necessary information. Check the application more the once to make sure you did not miss anything. Do not actually sign the application until you are at the Acceptance facility. If you are applying for your child to obtain an American passport, you and your minor must appear in person to fill and submit the DS-11 form at a passport agency or acceptance facility.
Acquire two passport photos from your local photo shop. The prices may differ depending where you go. The pictures need to be 2 by 2 inches. Color or black and white photos are acceptable, but the background of your photo must be white.
Take your completed application, photos and original birth certificate to a local Passport Acceptance Facility. Again, this can be your local post office. You can see whether your birth certificate is an original if it has a imprinted stamp on it. Other forms that prove your citizenship are a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship. Sign your application in person at the facility, and send the passport along with the fee and photos to the processing facility. The address of where you need to send it will be on the form.
Generally, you will have to wait six to eight weeks to receive your passport. If you need to have it sooner, pay the expediting fee. You must request the Expedited Service option on your application and include the $60 fee (as of 2011) for each application you need expedited. You will receive your passport in the mail once the application process is complete.
