You must apply in person to receive your first passport (book or card). A form called "DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport" must be filled out. This includes proof of citizenship (birth certificate), proof of identity (driver's license, military ID), two recent color photographs and the required fee. Make sure not to sign the application until you are asked to do so in the presence of the administering official. Keep in mind that while expedited service is available for an additional fee, the turnaround time for a passport is typically four to six weeks.
If you have a passport that was issued in your current name after you were 16 years old and within the last 15 years and it has not been damaged you can apply for a new one through the mail. You would complete a DS-82 form and submit the required documentation. You must return your old passport in order for a new one to be issued. The online application may also be used to acquire your first passport card. (See References below.)
Ideally, all children under the age of 16, including newborns and infants, must apply in person for a passport with both parents. If only one parent is available a notarized statement of consent is required from the other. In cases of sole legal custody, a death certificate or judicial document declaring the parent sole provider must be presented. These criteria help assure that children are not illegally removed from their country by non-custodial parents.
A passport card is a cheaper alternative to a typical passport book. It can be used for entry by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. It would be prudent to get a card in some instances, i.e., if traveling on a cruise or a day trip to Canada.
If your passport is lost, stolen or irreparably damaged, you may apply for a replacement by filing a new DS-11 and a DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport by mail or calling (877) 487-2778 (see References below). It is important to note that your previous passport immediately becomes null and void, so make sure to check everywhere before taking this step. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas report it immediately to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate (Usembassy.gov).
