You must show proof of citizenship to receive a passport. Suitable documents include a state-certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate or your previous passport. If you do not have these documents, you will have to provide early public records, such as a hospital birth certificate, baptismal record, doctors' records and school records. You have to submit more than one early public record to get a passport.
You must also provide proof of identity to get a passport. A driver's license, your previous passport or a government or military ID is acceptable. If you do not have these documents, you may be able to submit a combination of secondary identification documents, such as credit cards, library cards, Social Security numbers and employee identification. You may also be able to have someone who has known you for at least two years come with you when you apply for a passport and swear to your identity.
Minors require additional documentation. Parents have to provide proof of relationship with a birth certificate with both parents' names, adoption documents or custody court orders. Parents must also submit copies of their own identification documents. If both parents cannot be there to apply for a passport, the absent parent will have to sign a Statement of Consent and have it notarized.
