To apply for a passport you must submit several documents that are needed to process your application and prove your identity. The Form DS-11 is available online and serves as your application. You should fill out the form before applying but do not sign it until you are told to sign by the Passport Acceptance Agent. You must also submit proof of identification and citizenship. You can prove both citizenship and identification with a previous passport or naturalization certificate. Other documents used to prove citizenship include a government-issued birth certificate, certificate of birth abroad or a certificate of citizenship. To prove identity, you can also use your driver's license or other government or military issued identification. You must include a photocopy of the front and back of whatever you use to prove your identity.
With your application you must submit two copies of a color head shot of yourself. The photos should be two by two inches and have a white or off-white backdrop. You should be photographed in everyday clothes but should not wear hats or sunglasses; prescription glasses are acceptable if you wear them on a regular basis. You must also pay $100 for an adult passport for anyone 16 and older or $85 for passports for minors 15 and under.
Unless you need your passport within a few weeks, you should apply at a Passport Acceptance Facility. These are government buildings that are equipped to take passport applications, including some post offices, libraries and local government buildings. After you submit your application, your passport will be mailed to you in about a month. To find a Passport Acceptance Facility near you, see the Resources section. If you urgently need your passport, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency and pay a fee for expedited service.
