Can I renew by mail instead of applying in person?

No, first-time applicants must apply in person. Renewals by mail (Form DS-82) are only for people who already have or had a US passport that was issued when they were 16 or older.

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

Pay the $60 expedited fee for 2-3 week processing, or make an appointment at a regional passport agency if you're traveling within 2 weeks. Agency appointments require proof of imminent travel.

Do I need a passport book or passport card?

Get the passport book ($130) unless you only travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean. The passport card ($30) doesn't work for international air travel.

What if my birth certificate doesn't have my parents' names?

You'll need a different citizenship document like a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, naturalization certificate, or previous US passport. Contact the State Department if you're unsure what qualifies.

How to Get Your First US Passport

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

Gather your documents. You need proof of US citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), photo ID (driver's license or state ID), and one passport photo. Make copies of your ID - you'll submit the originals but get them back.
Fill out Form DS-11. Complete the application online at travel.state.gov but don't sign it yet. You must sign it in front of the acceptance agent. Print the completed form and bring it with you.
Get your passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background taken within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and post offices do these for $10-15. Don't use a selfie or home photo.
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a nearby post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications using the facility search tool at travel.state.gov. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
Submit your application. Bring everything to the acceptance facility. Pay $130 application fee plus $35 execution fee. They'll review your documents, watch you sign the form, and submit everything to the State Department.
Track and receive your passport. Track your application status online using your last name and date of birth. Your new passport will arrive by mail in 6-8 weeks for routine processing, or 2-3 weeks if you paid the extra $60 for expedited service.

Can I renew by mail instead of applying in person?: No, first-time applicants must apply in person. Renewals by mail (Form DS-82) are only for people who already have or had a US passport that was issued when they were 16 or older.
What if I need my passport in less than 6 weeks?: Pay the $60 expedited fee for 2-3 week processing, or make an appointment at a regional passport agency if you're traveling within 2 weeks. Agency appointments require proof of imminent travel.
Do I need a passport book or passport card?: Get the passport book ($130) unless you only travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean. The passport card ($30) doesn't work for international air travel.
What if my birth certificate doesn't have my parents' names?: You'll need a different citizenship document like a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, naturalization certificate, or previous US passport. Contact the State Department if you're unsure what qualifies.