Can I apply for a passport online?

No, first-time applicants must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Only passport renewals can be done by mail in certain circumstances.

How long is a US passport valid?

Adult passports are valid for 10 years from the issue date. Passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years.

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

Pay the $60 expedited fee to reduce processing to 2-3 weeks. For life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency.

Can I use my passport card for international travel?

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

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?

Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates or court orders along with your birth certificate and current ID.

How to Get Your First US Passport

Apply in person at an 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 for expedited service with an additional $60 fee.

Fill out Form DS-11. Complete the application online at travel.state.gov or print and fill by hand. Do not sign it until you're at the acceptance facility in front of an agent.
Gather required documents. Bring proof of US citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID), and one passport photo taken within the last 6 months.
Get your passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background at CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Store for $15-20. Some post offices also offer photo services.
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a nearby post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications using the facility search on travel.state.gov. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are needed.
Submit your application. Bring all documents, sign Form DS-11 in front of the agent, and pay the $165 fee ($130 application fee plus $35 execution fee). Payment methods vary by location but most accept checks and money orders.
Track your application. Use the tracking system on travel.state.gov with your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security number. You'll receive your passport by mail to the address on your application.

Can I apply for a passport online?: No, first-time applicants must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Only passport renewals can be done by mail in certain circumstances.
How long is a US passport valid?: Adult passports are valid for 10 years from the issue date. Passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years.
What if I need my passport faster than 6-8 weeks?: Pay the $60 expedited fee to reduce processing to 2-3 weeks. For life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency.
Can I use my passport card for international travel?: Passport cards only work for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. You need a passport book for international air travel.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?: Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates or court orders along with your birth certificate and current ID.