Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must provide a certified copy issued by the vital records office. Hospital-issued birth certificates are not 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 urgent travel within 14 days. You'll need proof of immediate travel.

Can someone else apply for me?

No. First-time passport applicants must appear in person. You cannot send someone else or apply by mail for your first passport.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?

Bring legal documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your birth certificate and current ID.

How to Get Your First Passport in the United States

Apply in person at an 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.

Gather required documents. You need Form DS-11 (filled out but not signed), proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), photo identification (driver's license or state ID), and one passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within 6 months).
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a passport acceptance facility near you using the State Department's online locator. Post offices, some libraries, and clerk of court offices accept applications. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are required.
Apply in person. Bring all documents and $165 total ($130 application fee plus $35 execution fee). You'll sign Form DS-11 in front of the acceptance agent. They'll review your documents and collect your fee.
Choose processing speed. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks and costs $165 total. Expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks and costs $225 total ($165 plus $60 expedite fee). Pay the expedite fee if you need your passport sooner.
Track your application. Use the online status tracker on travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll receive your new passport by mail.

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?: No. You must provide a certified copy issued by the vital records office. Hospital-issued birth certificates are not 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 urgent travel within 14 days. You'll need proof of immediate travel.
Can someone else apply for me?: No. First-time passport applicants must appear in person. You cannot send someone else or apply by mail for your first passport.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?: Bring legal documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your birth certificate and current ID.