How to Buy a Passport
With the passage of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, travel from the U.S. to destinations like Canada and Mexico now requires a passport. With an increase in demand, it is important that applicants are knowledgeable about the process and processing times.
- DS-11: Application For A U.S. Passport
- Social Security Number
- Primary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (one of the following): Previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport, Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship
- Or
- Secondary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship: A combination of signature documents (Social Security Card + Credit Card + Employee ID + Library Card) and an Identifying Witness who is a US citizen
- Identification: Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate,
- Valid Driver's License, Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents)
- Photocopy of Identification
- Applicable Fees
- Two Passport Size Photos
- Additional Requirements for Applicants Under 17:
- Both parents or guardians with photo identification
- Photocopy of parent/guardian photo identification
- Evidence of parental relationship: Minor's certified U.S. birth certificate with both parents' names, minor's certified Foreign Birth Certificate with both parents' names,Minor's Report of Birth Abroad with both parents' names, Adoption Decree with adopting parents' names, Court Order establishing custody, Court Order establishing guardianship
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Instructions
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1
Ensure that all documents are accounted for and not expired. Photocopies should be on plain white, letter-size standard paper stock, showing the front and the back of your ID.
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2
Verify fees with the U.S. State Department. Fees vary according to the age of the applicant, how soon the passport is needed and whether a previous passport has been obtained.
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Fill out the DS-11 Application. Do not sign.
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Choose a passport acceptance facility with the option of purchasing passport photos, or take photos at a place that offers standard passport photos within the approved guidelines.
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Apply in person at an approved facility. Passport acceptance facilities generally include post offices and regional passport agencies. The U.S. Department of State offers an online passport acceptance facility search engine. An agent will verify your signature in his presence to validate the application.
