Can I use my passport card for international travel?

Passport cards only work for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Bermuda. You need a passport book for air travel anywhere international.

What if I need my passport in less than 6 weeks?

Pay $60 for expedited service (2-3 weeks) or make an appointment at a regional passport agency if you have urgent travel within 14 days and proof of travel.

Do I need both parents present for a minor's passport?

Both parents must appear or provide notarized consent. If only one parent has custody, bring court documents. Minors 16+ can apply like adults but need parental consent.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?

Bring certified copies of marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders showing all name changes from birth certificate to current ID.

How to Get Your First US Passport

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

Gather required documents. You need proof of US citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID), one passport photo (2x2 inches), and completed Form DS-11. Do not sign Form DS-11 until you're at the acceptance facility.
Get your passport photo. Take a passport photo at CVS, Walgreens, Costco, or UPS Store for $10-15. Must be 2x2 inches, taken within 6 months, white background, and meet State Department photo requirements. Many post offices also take photos.
Find a passport acceptance facility. Visit iafdb.travel.state.gov to find locations near you. Most post offices, some libraries, and clerk of court offices accept applications. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are needed.
Submit your application in person. Bring all documents, photo, and payment. The agent will verify your identity, witness you signing Form DS-11, and review your paperwork. Pay $130 application fee plus $35 execution fee (total $165 for first-time applicants).
Track your application. Use the tracking number from your receipt at travel.state.gov. Check status online or call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Your documents will be returned separately from your passport.

Can I use my passport card for international travel?: Passport cards only work for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Bermuda. You need a passport book for air travel anywhere international.
What if I need my passport in less than 6 weeks?: Pay $60 for expedited service (2-3 weeks) or make an appointment at a regional passport agency if you have urgent travel within 14 days and proof of travel.
Do I need both parents present for a minor's passport?: Both parents must appear or provide notarized consent. If only one parent has custody, bring court documents. Minors 16+ can apply like adults but need parental consent.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?: Bring certified copies of marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders showing all name changes from birth certificate to current ID.