How To Apply For A New Passport

When you apply for a new passport you will need to do it in person. If you have an existing one, then find out how to renew your passport in person or by mail. To get started on a new one, you will be using Form DS-11. The next step is to collect the necessary documents. this includes:

  • Proof of Citizenship
  • Identification
  • Proof of relationship (For children under 16)

You must provide a Social Security number. If you do not have one you will then need to submit a statement, dated and then signed, that includes the exact phrase, "I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration." You are required to provide one of the following documents as evidence that you are a US citizen. You must have an original or certified copy, they will not accept photocopies or notarized copies.

  • US birth certificate
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Certificate of Citizenship

You will also need to bring a photocopy, front and back, of your proof of US citizenship. Photocopies must be legible, on white 8.5"x11" standard paper, single sided and in black and white. You will also need to present one of the following IDs when you apply for a passport in person. This ID must readily identify yourself.

  • A fully valid US drivers license
  • Government employee ID (city, county, state or federal)
  • Valid foreign passport
  • US military ID or military dependent ID
  • Matricula Consular

If you bring an out of state ID, you must provide an additional ID. If you have gone through a gender transition, please click here to view additional requirements. You will also need to provide a photocopy, front and back, of your ID. It must be on white 8 1/2 x 11" standard paper, it cannot be double sided and they require that you do not decrease the image size, but you can enlarge it, if need be.

The next step would be to get the proper passport photo, this is a 2 inch by 2 inch color photo. There are additional passport photo requirements. The location you will apply at might offer photo services on site, you can ask when you call to make your appointment. It does cost money to apply for a new passport, find out the passport fees for a new application.

Once you have all of your information, the last step is to find your passport office or agency and call and setup an appointment. When you call, we advise to verify you have all the correct information to take with you and if any additional information is needed. If you are traveling soon find out if you are eligible to expedite your passport application.

You will need to submit, in person, the fully completed form you filled out at the beginning of this process along with a photocopy of your ID, citizenship documentation, passport fees and your photo. Do not sign the application until instructed to do so by the acceptance agent.

This page provided information for applying for a new passport for adults. You can also check out how to apply for passports for children under 16 and apply for passports for teenagers ages 16-17.

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Passport Processing Times

Routine Service: 4-6 weeks
Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks

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