Download and fill out the application for a passport, Form DS-11 (see link in Resources). Bring this application, along with a previous passport, birth certificate, consular report of birth or certificate of citizenship, with you when you apply in person.
Permission of both parents is required for minors under 16 to obtain a passport. Either both parents must appear, in person, with the child, or one parent must appear and bring a notarized statement of consent from the absent parent. If one parent has sole custody, that parent must present proof of his custodial status. Parents must also bring proof of relationship to verify they are the parents of the child applying. Acceptable documents include birth certificates or consular reports of birth.
In addition to proof of identity, applicants need to submit two passport photos, less than 6 months old, full-color and 2-by-2 inches in size.
It takes about 60 days to receive your passport after applying, unless you pay an additional $60 to expedite the process. You might receive your passport in as few as 2 weeks if expedited.
You may pay with a personal check, money order or bank draft. Some facilities accept credit and debit cards, but call to verify this first. A passport book for an adult costs $100 and is valid for 10 years. A minor's passport is $85 and valid for 5 years.
A passport card is also available but not accepted in all countries. The card costs $45 for adults and $35 for children and is valid the same length of time as a passport book. You may possess a passport book and a passport card at the same time.
