Can I travel while my passport application is processing?

No, you cannot travel internationally while your application is being processed. Your citizenship documents are held by the State Department during this time. If you have urgent travel needs, you can pay for expedited service or visit a regional passport agency for same-day service with proof of travel within 14 days.

What if I don't have my birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born to order a certified copy. This typically costs $10-25 and takes 1-4 weeks. You can often expedite this service for an additional fee. Alternatively, if you have a previous US passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship, those work as primary citizenship evidence.

Do I need both parents' information if I'm over 18?

No, adults over 18 do not need parental consent or information on Form DS-11. You only need to provide your own citizenship proof, identification, photo, and fees.

Can I use a passport card for all international travel?

No, passport cards only work for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. You need a passport book for air travel to any international destination, including Canada and Mexico.

How to Apply for Your First US Passport as an Adult

Apply in person at a passport acceptance facility with Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, and $165 fee. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service with an additional $60 fee.

Fill out Form DS-11. Complete Form DS-11 online at travel.state.gov but do not sign it. You must sign it in front of an acceptance agent at your appointment. Print the completed form or save the barcode to show on your phone.
Gather your citizenship documents. Bring your original certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state, or a naturalization certificate. Photocopies are not accepted. If you don't have these, a previous US passport, certificate of citizenship, or consular report of birth abroad will work.
Bring photo identification. Present a valid driver's license, government employee ID, military ID, or naturalization certificate. The ID must be current and include your photo and signature.
Get a passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with a white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and UPS stores offer this service for $15-20. Some post offices also take photos on-site.
Calculate your fees. Standard adult passport book costs $130 application fee plus $35 execution fee ($165 total). Add $60 for expedited service. Passport cards cost $30 application fee plus $35 execution fee but only work for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a nearby post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Many require appointments, especially post offices. Call ahead or book online.
Apply in person. Bring all documents, photo, and payment (check, money order, or cash for execution fee). The agent will verify your documents, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and submit your application. Keep your receipt with the tracking number.
Track and receive your passport. Check status at travel.state.gov with your last name and tracking number. Your documents will be returned by mail separately from your passport. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks, expedited takes 2-3 weeks.

Can I travel while my passport application is processing?: No, you cannot travel internationally while your application is being processed. Your citizenship documents are held by the State Department during this time. If you have urgent travel needs, you can pay for expedited service or visit a regional passport agency for same-day service with proof of travel within 14 days.
What if I don't have my birth certificate?: Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born to order a certified copy. This typically costs $10-25 and takes 1-4 weeks. You can often expedite this service for an additional fee. Alternatively, if you have a previous US passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship, those work as primary citizenship evidence.
Do I need both parents' information if I'm over 18?: No, adults over 18 do not need parental consent or information on Form DS-11. You only need to provide your own citizenship proof, identification, photo, and fees.
Can I use a passport card for all international travel?: No, passport cards only work for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. You need a passport book for air travel to any international destination, including Canada and Mexico.