Your first adult passport
You have never held a U.S. passport, or your last one was issued before you turned 16. Everything is done in person at an acceptance facility.
steps
Step 1
Fill out form DS-11 — but do not sign it
Complete the DS-11 online or by hand in black ink. The acceptance agent must watch you sign it, so leave the signature line blank until you're at the counter.
Step 2
Gather proof of U.S. citizenship
A certified birth certificate with a raised or embossed seal, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Bring the original plus a photocopy — the original is returned to you by mail.
Step 3
Bring a valid photo ID and a photocopy
A driver's license, military ID, or government employee ID. Photocopy the front and back on plain white paper, one side per page.
Step 4
Get a compliant passport photo
2x2 inches, taken within the last six months, plain white background, neutral expression, no glasses. Many post offices and libraries take them on site.
Step 5
Prepare two separate payments
The application fee goes to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order. The execution fee is paid to the facility, usually by card or cash. They cannot be combined.
Step 6
Apply in person
Find an acceptance facility, check whether it requires an appointment, and bring everything above. The agent seals your packet and mails it for you.
Step 7
Track your application
Status appears online roughly two weeks after you apply. Your passport and your citizenship documents arrive in separate envelopes.