Complete Form DS-11, the application for your passport, except for signing it at the end. Only sign when told to by the passport agent. Form DS-11 can be downloaded and printed from the U.S. Department of State website.
Prove your American citizenship with a passport, naturalization certificate, government birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of citizenship. If you have a passport or naturalization certificate, you can also use these to prove your identity so skip to step four.
Prove your identity using your current driver's license, state or local government ID or a military ID. If you are using an out-of-state driver's license, you must show an additional form of ID.
Photocopy your proof of identification. The photocopy should show both front and back on one sheet of white, 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper.
Develop two copies of your passport photo. The photo must by a headshot showing your everyday appearance and must have been taken within six months of your application. The photos must be 2 inches square.
Bring your documentation to a passport acceptance facility (see Resources) along with your passport fee. As of 2009, an adult passport is $100 and for a minor, the cost is $85. Your passport will be mailed to you within four to six weeks.
