Applicants must fill out Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. The form asks for your name, social security number, address, occupation and physical characteristics such as height, hair color and eye color. The form can be filled out online, or printed and filled out in black ink. However, it must be submitted in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility such as a post office, government office or public library. The form and a list of passport acceptance facilities are available on the travel.state.gov site.
Bring proof of citizenship to the passport facility. Acceptable documents include a certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, a naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship, or a previously issued (expired) U.S. passport.
A form of identification such as a valid driver's license, government ID, military ID, naturalization certificate or previously issued passport is required. Provide a photocopy of the front and back of your identification document on standard 8.5 by 11 copy paper. If you are applying for a passport for a minor, you'll need to present a form of identification for yourself as well.
If you are applying for a passport for your child, you must show proof of relationship. Present the child's certified birth certificate with your name on it as a parent, an adoption decree, report of birth abroad or a court order establishing custody or guardianship. Both parents must appear in person with the child to apply, unless you are the only parent or have sole custody of the child.
One passport photo is necessary to submit with your application. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches and printed on photo-quality paper. The photo must show your current appearance, and must be taken six months or less prior to the application. Prescription glasses must be worn in the photo if you need them, but do not wear hats or other headgear. There are other requirements for the photo, so you should not take it yourself. Drug and chain stores like Walmart, CVS and Walgreens, and AAA offices offer passport photo services.
