Can I travel while my passport application is processing?

No, you cannot travel internationally while your application is being processed. The acceptance facility keeps your citizenship documents until your passport is ready.

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 business travel. You'll need proof of travel within 14 days and pay additional fees.

Do I need a passport book or passport card?

Get the book ($165 total). Passport cards ($65 total) only work for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, not air travel or other international destinations.

Can I use my birth certificate if it's from a hospital?

No, hospital-issued birth certificates are not accepted. You need a certified copy from the vital records office in the city, county, or state where you were born.

What if my name has changed since birth?

Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court-ordered name changes along with your birth certificate.

How to Get Your First US Passport as an Adult

Apply in person at a passport acceptance facility with Form DS-11, proof of US citizenship, government-issued photo ID, and $165 total in fees. 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 but do not sign it. You must sign in front of the passport agent. Print the completed form and bring it with you.
Gather your citizenship documents. Bring your certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state where you were born. If you don't have this, a certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship works. Photocopies are not accepted.
Bring government-issued photo ID. Valid driver's license, military ID, or government employee ID. The ID must be current and undamaged. Make a photocopy of both sides for the application.
Get a passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. Many pharmacies, post offices, and UPS stores offer this service for $10-15. Or take it yourself following the State Department's photo requirements.
Calculate your fees. Passport book costs $130 application fee plus $35 execution fee, total $165. Add $60 for expedited service if you need it in 2-3 weeks instead of 6-8 weeks. Bring exact change or money order made out to 'U.S. Department of State' for the $130 and separate payment for the $35 execution fee.
Find a passport acceptance facility. Most post offices, some libraries, courthouses, and clerks of court accept applications. Use the facility search tool at travel.state.gov. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are required.
Submit your application. Bring everything to the facility. The agent will review your documents, watch you sign the form, and collect your fees. They'll keep your citizenship document and return it with your passport. Keep your receipt to track your application status.

Can I travel while my passport application is processing?: No, you cannot travel internationally while your application is being processed. The acceptance facility keeps your citizenship documents until your passport is ready.
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 business travel. You'll need proof of travel within 14 days and pay additional fees.
Do I need a passport book or passport card?: Get the book ($165 total). Passport cards ($65 total) only work for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, not air travel or other international destinations.
Can I use my birth certificate if it's from a hospital?: No, hospital-issued birth certificates are not accepted. You need a certified copy from the vital records office in the city, county, or state where you were born.
What if my name has changed since birth?: Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court-ordered name changes along with your birth certificate.