Download and print a copy of the DS-11 passport application from the United States Department of State Passport website. Complete the application, but do not sign it.
Enter in your zip code on the State Department's "Where to Apply for a Passport" page to locate a nearby passport office or post offices with passport processing.
Have passport photos taken. You need two color 2-inch by 2-inch full-facial photos. Drug stores, photo finishing stores and some passport processing centers offer this service. Collect the filled out DS-11, your passport photos, Social Security card, birth certificate and state-issued photo identification and go to the passport office. Present the forms, passport photos, ID and the processing fee. You will sign the application when asked by the processing agent. Submit a photocopy of your driver's license. Your passport and other documents will be mailed to your home address.
Mail your old passport, two new passport photos and the filled out passport renewal form (DS-82 from the State Department website) and fees to the State Department passport agency if you are renewing your passport. Your renewed passport and other documents will be mailed to your home address.
Place all of the documents, forms, photos and your old passport into an envelope and mail it to an authorized independent passport broker if you are renewing the passport. Include a self-addressed mailer for the passport to be sent if the independent agency requests. Using the State Department passport services does not require a self-addressed mailer.
