Can I apply for a passport online?

No, first-time applicants must apply in person. Only renewals can be done by mail if your previous passport is undamaged and was issued when you were 16 or older.

What if I need my passport faster than 6-8 weeks?

Pay an additional $60 for expedited processing (2-3 weeks). For emergencies, make an appointment at a regional passport agency for same-day service with proof of immediate international travel.

Do I need my Social Security card?

No, but you must provide your SSN on Form DS-11. If you don't have an SSN, write 'NONE' in that field and include a signed statement explaining why.

Can someone else pick up my passport?

No, passports must be collected by the applicant in person, or they'll be mailed to you if you provide a prepaid envelope. No exceptions for family members.

How to Get Your First US Passport

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

Fill out Form DS-11. Complete the application online at travel.state.gov but do not sign it. You must sign it in person at the acceptance facility in front of an agent.
Gather your citizenship documents. Bring your certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state (hospital certificates don't work). If you don't have one, order a certified copy from your birth state's vital records office. This costs $10-25 depending on the state.
Bring valid photo ID. Driver's license, state-issued ID, military ID, or naturalization certificate. The ID must be current and undamaged. Expired IDs are not accepted.
Get a passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and FedEx do these for $15-20. Some post offices also take photos on-site.
Find an acceptance facility. Go to iafdb.travel.state.gov to find locations near you. Post offices, libraries, and clerk of courts accept applications. Call ahead to confirm hours - many only accept passport applications certain days.
Pay the fees. Bring $130 for the passport fee (check or money order to U.S. Department of State) plus $35 execution fee (separate payment to the facility, often cash only). Total: $165 for routine processing.
Submit your application. Arrive during acceptance hours. The agent will review your documents, watch you sign Form DS-11, and collect everything. Keep your receipt - it has your tracking number.
Wait for processing. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks. You can track status at travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your SSN. Your documents will be returned with your passport.

Can I apply for a passport online?: No, first-time applicants must apply in person. Only renewals can be done by mail if your previous passport is undamaged and was issued when you were 16 or older.
What if I need my passport faster than 6-8 weeks?: Pay an additional $60 for expedited processing (2-3 weeks). For emergencies, make an appointment at a regional passport agency for same-day service with proof of immediate international travel.
Do I need my Social Security card?: No, but you must provide your SSN on Form DS-11. If you don't have an SSN, write 'NONE' in that field and include a signed statement explaining why.
Can someone else pick up my passport?: No, passports must be collected by the applicant in person, or they'll be mailed to you if you provide a prepaid envelope. No exceptions for family members.