US Passport Application: A comprehensive guide to requirements, fees, tips, and FAQs. Get your US passport application done right with this helpful guide.
Overview of the US passport Application
To apply for a US passport, you need to fill out Form DS-11, which is available online or can be obtained from a Passport Acceptance Facility. The form requires you to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and place of birth, as well as details about your previous passports (if applicable) and travel plans.
Here is an example of the sections of the DS-11 form:
Section 1: Personal Information
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Sex
- Social security number (optional)
- Mailing address
- Email address (optional)
- Phone number
Section 2: Passport Book Options
- Type of passport book (standard, non-standard, or large)
- Number of pages (28 or 52)
Section 3: Expedited Service
- If you require expedited service, you must provide a reason and pay an additional fee.
Section 4: Travel Plans
- Date of departure
- Destination
- Duration of trip.
Section 5: Previous Passport
- If you have had a previous passport, you must provide the passport number, date of issuance, and expiration date.
Section 6: Statement of Consent
- If you are under the age of 16, you must provide a statement of consent from a parent or legal guardian.
Section 7: Execution of Application
- You must sign and date the application in the presence of an authorized passport acceptance agent.
Introduction
Welcome to the guide on the US passport application process. A passport is an essential travel document that confirms your identity and citizenship, allowing you to travel internationally.
In this guide, we will provide you with an overview of the US passport application process, including the necessary requirements, the application process, and some helpful tips.
Types of US Passport Applications
| Type of Application | Form Name | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| First-Time Passport | DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport | $145 ($110 application fee + $35 execution fee) |
| Renewal of Passport by Mail | DS-82: U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals | $110 |
| Renewal of Passport in Person | DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport | $145 ($110 application fee + $35 execution fee) |
| Child Passport | DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport | $115 ($80 application fee + $35 execution fee) |
| Lost or Stolen Passport | DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport | N/A (no fee for this form) |
| Second Passport | DS-82: U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals | $110 |
| Diplomatic Passport | DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport | N/A (no fee for diplomatic passports) |
| Official Passport | DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport | N/A (no fee for official passports) |
Passport Application Requirements
When applying for a US passport, you will need to provide the following:
- Proof of US citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previously issued US passport)
- Valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID, or government ID)
- One passport photo
- Completed DS-11 application form
- Passport fees (check or money order)
Note that some applicants may need to provide additional documentation, such as a marriage certificate or court order, depending on their circumstances. For more information, visit the official US passport website.
How to Fill Out a US Passport Application
When filling out a US passport application, follow these steps:
- Download form DS-11 from the US Department of State website or pick up a hard copy at a local passport acceptance facility.
- Complete the application form by filling in your personal information, such as your full name, date and place of birth, and contact information.
- Provide information about your previous US passport, if you have one.
- Include information about any previous name changes, if applicable.
- Provide a recent passport photo and pay the applicable fee.
- Sign and date the application.
Note that children under the age of 16 must have their application signed by both parents or legal guardians, and children between 16 and 17 must have their application signed by one parent or legal guardian.
Tips for Completing a US Passport Application
- Read the instructions carefully before you start filling out the form.
- Use black ink and write legibly.
- Provide complete and accurate information.
- Use your full legal name as it appears on your other official documents.
- Do not use nicknames or abbreviations, unless they are part of your legal name.
- Sign and date the application.
- Double-check your application before submitting it to avoid any errors or omissions.
- Submit all required documents and fees along with your application.
Supporting Documents for US Passport Application
When submitting a US passport application, you will need to include supporting documents to prove your identity, citizenship, and other information. The specific documents required will depend on your individual circumstances, but some common examples include:
- Previous passport (if you have one)
- US birth certificate
- Naturalization certificate
- Consular report of birth abroad
- Driver's license or other government-issued photo ID
- Military ID
- Proof of travel plans, such as a flight itinerary or hotel reservation
- Two passport photos
- Payment for passport fees
It's important to carefully review the passport application instructions and requirements to ensure that you have all the necessary supporting documents before submitting your application. In some cases, additional documents or information may be required.
Fees for US Passport Application
| Passport Service | Fee (in USD) | Execution Fee (in USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Passport Book (16 years and older) | 110 | 35 |
| Adult Passport Book & Card (16 years and older) | 140 | 35 |
| Child Passport Book (under 16 years) | 80 | 35 |
| Child Passport Book & Card (under 16 years) | 95 | 35 |
| Additional visa pages (set of 24 pages) | No fee | No fee |
| File search fee | 150 | No fee |
How to Track Your US Passport Application
Once you've submitted your US passport application, you can track its status online. Here's how:
- Go to the Passport Application Status page on the U.S. Department of State website.
- Enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number in the corresponding fields.
- Click on the "Check Status" button.
You'll then be able to see the current status of your application, as well as an estimated timeframe for when you can expect to receive your passport.
If you prefer, you can also track your passport application by phone. Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 and provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number to get an update on your application status.
Note that it may take several days for your application status to be updated, so be patient and check back periodically if you don't see any changes right away.
US Passport Application Example However, you can find an example of a US passport application on the official U.S. Department of State website. They provide a PDF version of the form that you can fill out online or print and complete by hand. Here's the link to the website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.htmlFAQs for US Passport Application
1. What is the current processing time for a US passport application?
The current processing time for routine service is 10-12 weeks, and expedited service is 4-6 weeks. However, processing times may vary based on various factors such as the volume of applications received and the time of year.
2. Can I renew my passport by mail?
If you meet all the eligibility requirements, you can renew your passport by mail by submitting Form DS-82 and other required documents.
3. Do I need to provide a photo with my passport application?
Yes, you need to provide a passport photo that meets the specific requirements of the US Department of State. You can take a passport photo at various locations such as pharmacies, post offices, and retail stores.
4. What documents are required for a first-time passport application?
For a first-time passport application, you need to provide a completed Form DS-11, evidence of US citizenship, government-issued photo ID, one passport photo, and the applicable fee.
5. Can I apply for a passport for my child?
Yes, you can apply for a passport for your child. For children under 16 years old, both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child to submit the application.
6. Can I expedite my passport application?
Yes, you can expedite your passport application for an additional fee. Expedited service can reduce the processing time from 10-12 weeks to 4-6 weeks.
7. Can I travel outside the US while waiting for my passport?
No, you cannot travel outside the US while waiting for your passport unless you have a valid passport or other travel documents.
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