Download form DS-11 from the Department of State's website (see Resources) or pick it up at your local post office. Fill out the form but don't sign it yet. You may only sign your application when the Acceptance Agent instructs you to do so.
Obtain two passport photos of your child. You can have this done at the post office, at most chain drugstores with onsite photo services and at most FedEx or UPS locations.
The two passport pictures include with your child's application must be identical color photos, two inches by two inches in size; the photos must be clear shots of the child's face and taken in front of a white background. The photos must be recent---not more than six months old.
Make an appointment at your local passport agency or acceptance facility. This may be a post office, township clerk's office, public library or other government office. Check the Department of State website for the location nearest you.
If only one parent can accompany the child to the appointment, you must have the parent who cannot attend fill out Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent), sign it and have it notarized. Otherwise, both parents must accompany the child in person.
Gather all the necessary paperwork. You will need to submit evidence of your child's U.S. citizenship. Don't worry: this will be returned to you when the passport is completed. This requirement may be filled by submitting a previously issued passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, a certificate of citizenship or a naturalization certificate.
You will also need to provide evidence of your relationship: your child's certified birth certificate with both parents' names, her report of birth abroad including both parents' names, her adoption decree with both parents' names or a court order establishing custody or guardianship.
Lastly, you must also bring your own identification document, as well as a photocopy of this same document. You may use a previously issued passport, naturalization certificate, valid driver's license, current military identification or current government employee identification.
Prepare your method of payment. This may vary, depending on your chosen location. A passport agency will take major credit cards, debit/check cards, checks (personal, certified, cashier's or traveler's), and money orders. An acceptance agency will take personal checks, money orders, and bank drafts, and will also charge an execution fee (paid separately).
At your reserved time, bring your child to the Acceptance Facility, along with all necessary paperwork, her passport photos and the proper method of payment.
