# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How to Petition for a Passport

If you plan to travel abroad, you need a valid United States passport. The first time you petition for a passport, you must do so in person at an approved location. You must also apply in person if you have lost or damaged your passport, if your passport is more than 15 years old or if you legally changed your name. You can apply at some public libraries, U.S. consulates or embassies, passport agencies and local government offices. Some post offices allow you to apply for a passport and will even take your passport photo for an additional fee.

Identification card
Passport photos
Photocopy of ID
Form DS-11
Proof of citizenship
Application fee
Execution fee

Instructions

- 1
  Visit the U.S. Department of State website. Print out Form DS-11 and complete it in black ink. You may, alternately, fill out DS-11 online before printing it or obtain a form at a passport acceptance facility. Do not sign the form -- you have to do so while in the presence of an acceptance agent.
- 2
  Gather the materials required for a passport application. This includes evidence of U.S. citizenship, a valid ID, photocopies of your ID, two identical photographs and Form DS-11.
- 3
  Visit a passport agency. The U.S. Department of State website includes an acceptance facility search page that you can use to find a location.
- 4
  Present your DS-11 form and supporting materials to an acceptance agent. Pay the application and execution fees. As of 2011, the application fee is $140; the execution fee is $25.
- 5
  Sign the DS-11 form when the acceptance agent prompts you. Give the agent your passport photos. Within roughly four to six weeks, you will receive a passport.