Can I use a hospital birth certificate?

No. You need a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state where you were born. Hospital certificates aren't accepted.

What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?

Make an appointment at a regional passport agency for life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days. You'll need proof of travel and pay additional fees.

Can someone else pick up my passport?

No, unless you're under 16. Adults must collect their own passport with photo ID, or it gets mailed to the address on your application.

Do I need my Social Security card?

Not if your driver's license shows your full SSN. If it doesn't, bring your Social Security card or W-2 form from the past year.

What if my name has changed since birth?

Bring legal documents showing the name change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your passport will be issued in your current legal name.

How to apply for your first adult passport

Apply online at travel.state.gov, submit form DS-11 in person at a passport acceptance facility with required documents and $165 total in fees. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service, 2-3 weeks if you pay extra for expedited.

Fill out Form DS-11 online. Go to travel.state.gov and complete Form DS-11. Print it but don't sign it yet — you'll sign in front of the acceptance agent. Save the confirmation page with your barcode.
Gather required documents. You need proof of citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), photo ID (driver's license or state ID), and one photocopy of your ID's front and back.
Get a passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and post offices do these for $15-20. Some acceptance facilities take photos on-site.
Calculate your fees. Application fee is $130, execution fee is $35 (total $165). Add $60 if you want expedited service (2-3 weeks instead of 6-8). Bring cash, check, or money order — many locations don't take cards.
Find a passport acceptance facility. Use the facility locator on travel.state.gov. Post offices, libraries, and clerks of court accept applications. Call ahead — many require appointments and have limited hours for passport services.
Submit your application in person. Bring your unsigned DS-11, documents, photo, and payment. The agent will verify your identity, watch you sign the form, and process everything. Keep your receipt — you'll need it to track your application.

Can I use a hospital birth certificate?: No. You need a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state where you were born. Hospital certificates aren't accepted.
What if I need my passport in less than 2 weeks?: Make an appointment at a regional passport agency for life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days. You'll need proof of travel and pay additional fees.
Can someone else pick up my passport?: No, unless you're under 16. Adults must collect their own passport with photo ID, or it gets mailed to the address on your application.
Do I need my Social Security card?: Not if your driver's license shows your full SSN. If it doesn't, bring your Social Security card or W-2 form from the past year.
What if my name has changed since birth?: Bring legal documents showing the name change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your passport will be issued in your current legal name.