Check the U.S. Department of State’s website to determine the most current fees. At the time of publication, an adult passport book and card cost $140 plus a $25 execution fee. Call the acceptance facility to determine the forms of payment forms they accept. Some facilities require a money order or cash; other facilities may accept a credit card or personal check. Not bringing the correct amount or an acceptable form of payment delays the application process.
Access the passport application, form DS-11, on the U.S. Department of State's website (travel.state.gov). It can be printed and filled out by hand or completed online before printing. Complete all the information requested on the form, including your social security number. Missing information delays the passport. Do not sign the form; you must sign the form in person when you submit it.
Bring proof of U.S. citizenship, identification and the passport fee with you to submit the application. Acceptable forms of proof of citizenship include an undamaged, previously issued passport, certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship or a consular report of birth abroad. Acceptable forms of identification include a valid driver's license, current government identification, current military identification, a naturalization certificate or an undamaged, previously issued passport. Bring a photocopy of the front and back of each form of identification you present. The photocopy should be on only on one side of the paper.
Provide a color photograph that was taken within the last six months. The photo's size should be 2-by-2 inches. For your photo, you should face forward and wear a neutral expression. Ensure no shadows are cast on your face, and you are in front of a plain white or off-white background. If you normally wear glasses, you should wear them in the photo. Have it printed on photo-quality paper.
