Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

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

What if I need my passport faster than 2-3 weeks?

You can make an appointment at a regional passport agency for life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days. Call 1-877-487-2778 with proof of immediate travel.

Do I need my Social Security number?

Yes, you must provide your SSN on Form DS-11. If you don't have one, you must submit a statement explaining why and provide alternative documentation.

Can someone else pick up my passport?

No, passports are only mailed directly to you. You cannot authorize someone else to receive your passport on your behalf.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?

Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders showing the progression from your birth name to current legal name.

How to Get Your First US Passport

Apply in person at a passport acceptance facility with Form DS-11, proof of US citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, and $165 fee. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service (additional $60).

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. Make copies of your ID - you'll submit the copies and show the originals.
Fill out Form DS-11. Complete the application online at travel.state.gov or print and fill by hand. Do not sign it yet - you must sign in front of the acceptance agent. Double-check all information for accuracy.
Get your passport photo. Take a 2x2 inch color photo with white background within the last 6 months. CVS, Walgreens, and post offices offer this service for $15-20. Avoid glasses, hats, or smiling with teeth showing.
Find a passport acceptance facility. Locate an acceptance facility at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Post offices, libraries, and clerk of court offices accept applications. Some require appointments - call ahead. Bring all documents and payment.
Submit your application. Present all documents to the acceptance agent, sign Form DS-11 in their presence, and pay the $130 application fee plus $35 execution fee. You can pay by check, money order, or cash (varies by location).
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of SSN. You'll receive your new passport by mail in a separate envelope from your returned citizenship documents.

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?: No. You must submit a certified copy issued by the vital records office. Hospital certificates and photocopies are not accepted.
What if I need my passport faster than 2-3 weeks?: You can make an appointment at a regional passport agency for life-or-death emergencies or travel within 14 days. Call 1-877-487-2778 with proof of immediate travel.
Do I need my Social Security number?: Yes, you must provide your SSN on Form DS-11. If you don't have one, you must submit a statement explaining why and provide alternative documentation.
Can someone else pick up my passport?: No, passports are only mailed directly to you. You cannot authorize someone else to receive your passport on your behalf.
What if my name has changed since my birth certificate?: Bring certified copies of legal name change documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders showing the progression from your birth name to current legal name.