Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must provide a certified copy issued by the vital records office. Hospital copies and photocopies are not accepted.

What if I need my passport urgently?

Pay for expedited service ($60 extra) for 2-3 week processing. For travel within 14 days, visit a regional passport agency with proof of travel and pay additional fees.

Can I apply by mail for my first passport?

No. First-time adult applicants must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Only renewals can be done by mail.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can use a naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship, or consular report of birth abroad. Contact the vital records office in your birth state to get a certified birth certificate copy.

How do I get a passport photo?

Most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), post offices, and passport facilities offer photo services for $10-15. Photos must be 2x2 inches, color, on white background, taken within 6 months.

How to apply for your first US passport as an adult

Apply at a passport acceptance facility (post office, library, or courthouse) 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 ($60 extra).

Gather required documents. You need proof of US citizenship (certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport), valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID), and one passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within 6 months).
Complete Form DS-11. Fill out the application online at travel.state.gov or print and complete by hand. Do not sign it yet - you must sign in front of the acceptance agent.
Find an acceptance facility. Locate a nearby post office, public library, courthouse, or passport agency that accepts applications. Most require appointments - check online or call ahead.
Visit the facility with all documents. Bring your completed DS-11 form, original documents, photocopies of ID documents, passport photo, and payment. The agent will verify everything and witness your signature.
Pay the fees. Application fee is $130 (check or money order to US Department of State) plus $35 acceptance fee (cash, check, or money order to the facility). Add $60 for expedited processing if needed.
Wait for processing. Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks from application date. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks. You can track status online with your last name and date of birth.

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?: No. You must provide a certified copy issued by the vital records office. Hospital copies and photocopies are not accepted.
What if I need my passport urgently?: Pay for expedited service ($60 extra) for 2-3 week processing. For travel within 14 days, visit a regional passport agency with proof of travel and pay additional fees.
Can I apply by mail for my first passport?: No. First-time adult applicants must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Only renewals can be done by mail.
What if I don't have a birth certificate?: You can use a naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship, or consular report of birth abroad. Contact the vital records office in your birth state to get a certified birth certificate copy.
How do I get a passport photo?: Most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), post offices, and passport facilities offer photo services for $10-15. Photos must be 2x2 inches, color, on white background, taken within 6 months.