Complete the DS-11 Passport Application Form. Obtain a DS-11 form from any Pennsylvania passport acceptance facility or download the form online at the U.S. Department of State website. Do not sign the form. An authorized passport agent must witness your signature.
Make copies of required identification documents. Proof of citizenship and identity is necessary to obtain a passport. A certified birth or naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship or a previously issued passport may prove citizenship and a valid Pennsylvania driver's license or current government or military I.D. may serve as evidence of your identity. Print the front and back of each document on white, standard stock paper.
Include two identical, color passport photos with your DS-11 U.S. Passport Application Form and I.D. documents. Passport photos should be on photo-quality paper and measure 2-by-2 inches in size.
Visit a passport acceptance facility in person to submit your application. See Resources to locate a facility near you. Visit the Pennsylvania Regional Passport Agency in Philadelphia if you need delivery of your passport expedited for travel within two weeks of submitting your application. The office is open to the public by appointment only. Call the toll free, 24-hour, automated hotline at 877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment.
Sign the DS-11 form in the presence of an authorized passport agent and pay the passport fee. See Resources for the current passport fee schedule. With proper documentation you could receive your passport in as little as 4 to 6 weeks.
