Download and complete Form DS-11, available from the Department of State website. You can also complete the form online before printing it out. The form asks for basic information about you, including your name, address and date of birth. You are also required to provide certain information about your parents.
Submit your completed form in person at an acceptance facility or at a branch of the U.S. passport agency. There are 517 places in Texas where you can submit your form. To find the facility nearest to you, use the search page at the Department of State website (see Resources).
Bring evidence of your United States citizenship with you to the acceptance facility. Acceptable forms of citizenship include a previous U.S. passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship or a certified birth certificate issued by your state, county or city.
Bring evidence of your identity. Primary forms of identity are a previously issued passport, naturalization certificate, valid driver’s license, current government identification (issued by federal, state or city government) and current military identification.
If you're applying for a passport in Texas, bear in mind that if your primary identification, such as a driving license, is issued by another state, you will also need to show secondary identification. This consists of a combination of documents which verify your identity, such as a credit card, Social Security card, employee identification and library card. You must also bring a photocopy of the document you use to verify your identity.
Bring the appropriate fee. Fees vary according to a number of factors, including whether you are applying for a passport card, passport book or a combination of the two. As of July 2010, the fee for a new adult passport book and card is $120, which includes a $95 fee and a $25 execution fee. At a branch of the Passport Agency, you can pay by credit card, check, money order or banker's draft, while some acceptance facilities can also accept payment in cash.
Attach two clear full-face photographs. The photographs are governed by strict guidelines. They should each measure two inches by two inches, with your face, from the top of your hair to the bottom of your chin, measuring not less than one inch. According to the Department of State, the most common reason why photos are rejected is overexposure, but other common problems include poor focusing, dark images, low quality photographic printing and shadows on the subject's face.
Contact a regional passport agency if you require a passport quickly (if you'll be traveling internationally within two weeks or to apply for a foreign visa within four weeks, for example). The regional passport agency for Texas is in Dallas.
Dallas Passport Agency
Earle Cabell Federal Building
1100 Commerce St, Suite 1120
Dallas, TX 75242
(877) 487-2778
