Us passport application 2026

To get a U.S. passport, you need a completed DS-11 form (unsigned), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo identification (like a drivers license) with front/back photocopies, a passport photo, and fees, then apply in person at an acceptance facility. The originals are submitted but returned; you must provide clear photocopies and pay the required fees. Required Documents Application Form: Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport), filled out but not signed until told to at your appointment. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original + Photocopy): Original U.S. birth certificate (with a raised seal) or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Original Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. A black-and-white photocopy of the front and back of your citizenship document. Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy): Valid, undamaged drivers license, state ID, or military ID. A black-and-white photocopy of the front and back of your ID. Passport Photo: One recent color photo (2x2 inches) meeting specific requirements (plain white background, no glasses). Fees: Check the U.S. Department of State website for current fees and accepted payment methods (no cash by mail). Application Process Gather Documents: Collect originals and photocopies as listed above. Complete Form DS-11: Fill it out online or by hand, but wait to sign it. Get a Photo: Obtain a compliant passport photo. Find an Acceptance Facility: Locate a post office or library that processes passport applications. Apply In-Person: Bring all documents, photos, and fees to your appointment; sign the DS-11 in front of the agent. AI can make mistakes, so double-check responsesApply for Your Adult Passport - TravelFull validity means the passport was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. Consular Report of Birth AbrU.S. Department of State (.gov)APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORTPresent your original identification and submit a front and back photocopy with this form. It must show a photograph that is a gooU.S. Department of State (.gov)

To apply for a U.S. passport, you generally need a completed but unsigned DS-11 form, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate or old passport) with a photocopy, a valid photo ID (like a drivers license) with a front/back photocopy, a passport photo, and the applicable fees, all submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility. Renewal by mail (Form DS-82) requires your old passport, photos, and fees, but no new citizenship/ID proof unless name changes occurred. For First-Time Applicants (DS-11) Youll need these documents for an in-person appointment at a passport acceptance facility (like a post office or county clerk). Application Form: Completed but unsigned DS-11 form. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate) + one black white photocopy (front back). Proof of Identity: Original (e.g., drivers license, military ID) + one black white photocopy (front back). Passport Photo: One recent, color photo meeting specific requirements (2x2 inches). Fees: Payment for the application fee (check/money order usually) and potentially an execution fee. For Renewal by Mail (DS-82) You can renew by mail if you meet certain criteria (e.g., your most recent passport is undamaged and was issued when you were 16 or older). Renewal Form: Completed and signed DS-82 form. Your Most Recent Passport: Your current/expired passport book/card. Passport Photo: One new passport photo. Fees: Applicable renewal fees. Name Change Docs (If Applicable): Marriage certificate or court order if your name differs from your old passport. Key Considerations Photocopies: Must be on plain white 8.5 x 11 paper, single-sided, in black and white. Age: Different rules apply for children under 16, requiring parental consent and presence. Expedited Service: Available for faster processing if you have urgent travel, often requiring an extra fee and proof of travel. AI can make mistakes, so double-check responsesApply for Your Adult Passport - Travel - State.govphotocopy of the front and back of your photo ID. Photocopy requirements: Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper. Use a single side of the U.S. Department of State (.gov)Passport FormsSep 25, 2025U.S. Department of State (.gov)

No, you dont need your physical Social Security card to get a passport, but you must provide your Social Security Number (SSN) on the application form; failure to do so can delay or deny your application and result in a penalty. While the card isnt required, bringing it, a photocopy, or having the number ready can help if there are questions, and youll need other primary ID like a drivers license and proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate). Key Requirements: Your SSN: Item 5 on the passport application requires your SSN if youve ever been issued one. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: An original birth certificate or previous passport. Proof of Identity: A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a drivers license. Photos Fees: Passport photos and applicable fees are also necessary. What if you dont have an SSN? If youve never been issued an SSN, you must write NONE in box #5 on the form and submit a sworn statement. In summary: Have your SSN handy, but focus on your primary ID (drivers license) and citizenship document (birth certificate) as the main required items, with the SSN number itself being mandatory. AI can make mistakes, so double-check responsesApply for Your Adult Passport - TravelYou must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship. 3. Get a Photo ID. You must present a physical, photo identification (ID) aU.S. Department of State (.gov)Learn what documents you will need to get a Social Security Card | SSASocial Security Administration (.gov)

1. Gather Required Documentation Form DS-11, completed but not signed. Form DS-64, completed but not signed. Evidence of U.S. citizenship. Photocopy of evidence of U.S. citizenship. Evidence of parental awareness. Photo ID. Photocopy of photo ID. Passport photo. Dec 4, 2025

A new U.S. passport book for an adult costs $165 total, which includes a $130 application fee (paid to the State Dept.) and a separate $35 acceptance fee (paid to the facility like a post office). A passport card costs $65 ($30 fee + $35 acceptance fee), and you can get both for $195. Minors under 16 pay $135 for a book ($100 fee + $35 acceptance fee). New Adult Applicant (16+) Passport Book Only: $165 ($130 fee + $35 acceptance fee) Passport Card Only: $65 ($30 fee + $35 acceptance fee) Book Card: $195 ($160 fee + $35 acceptance fee) Minor Applicant (Under 16) Passport Book Only: $135 ($100 fee + $35 acceptance fee) Optional Fees Expedited Service: Add $60 for faster processing (Passport Book Only). 1-2 Day Delivery: Add $22.05 for faster return of your completed book. AI can make mistakes, so double-check responsesPassport Fees - TravelU.S. Department of State (.gov)Apply for Your Adult Passport - TravelU.S. Department of State (.gov)