Getting a passport is an important step for anyone planning to travel internationally. Whether you’re applying for your first, renewing an old one, or making changes due to life events, understanding the process can help you get your passport without delays.

Close up on passport of USA

Here’s what you need to know about the different types of applications and how to apply.

How to Get a New Passport

If you have never had a U.S. passport before, follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

You need to be a U.S. citizen or national. First-time applicants, children under 16, and those who have never had a passport will need to apply in person.

If eligible, apply using form DS-11.

Step 2: Complete Form DS-11

Fill out the application using the State Department online form filler or by printing and filling the form out by hand.

Applicants may also find the application at any of their local passport acceptance facilities, such as courthouses, clerks of courts, public libraries, and post offices.

Use only black ink to complete this application. Other colors of ink may be rejected.

Your form will need to be hand-delivered in person to complete your application. For this reason, do not sign the form until your identity has been verified by an acceptance agent.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable forms of proof are birth certificates or naturalization certificates.

They must also provide a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, and include a passport photo that meets official guidelines.

Step 4: Submit the Application in Person

New applicants must verify their identities in person at a passport acceptance facility. 

Once you choose your facility, apply in person with all of the required documents and fees in hand.

What are the fees?

Passport fees are $130 for adults and $100 for children under 16. There is also a passport acceptance facility fee of $35. To pay, use either a check or money order.

Processing typically takes 8-10 weeks.

How to Get a Passport Renewal

Close-up of American passport, dollar banknote, and coins.

To renew an expired or soon-to-expire passport, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Your current passport should be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 or older.

If eligible for passport renewal, applicants should apply using application form DS-82.

Step 2: Complete Form DS-82

Unlike new passport applications, you do not need to apply in person. Instead, applicants have the option to mail in their DS-82 application or apply online. 

The requirements for mail-in and online differ slightly. So, it’s important to know which is better for you based on eligibility. 

Find out if you are eligible for online passport renewal here.

If applying by mail, use the State Department online form filler and print out your application. There is also the option of printing the DS-82 and filling it out by hand. Use only black ink to complete this application. Other colors of ink may be rejected.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

The application should include the most recent passport, a new passport photo, and the renewal fee of $130.

Step 4: Submit Passport Renewal Application

For those applying by mail, send the form and supporting documents to the address listed on the application form. If applying online, follow the steps provided on the online form.

Need Your Passport Fast?

Online renewal offers convenience by allowing you to submit your application digitally. However, online renewals cannot be expedited through the U.S. State Department.

If you need a passport soon, The Passport Office can help.

The Passport Office is a registered courier with the State Department and offers expedited services. We can help get you a passport in as little as 3-5 days.

Online appointments are available.

How to get a Child Passport

A child’s passport application is similar to the new passport application, with added information needed from the parents or guardians of the child. 

Child’s hand holding US passport.

For children under 16, follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete Form DS-11

A parent or guardian must fill out the form and apply in person with the child.

Fill out the application using the State Department online form filler or by printing and filling the form out by hand.

Applicants can find the DS-11 at any of their local passport acceptance facilities, such as courthouses, clerks of courts, public libraries, and post offices.

Use only black ink to complete this application. Other colors of ink may be rejected.

Your form will need to be hand-delivered in person to complete your application. For this reason, do not sign the form until all the identities of the parent/guardian and children have been verified by an acceptance agent.

Step 2: Provide Documentation

Parents or guardians must provide Proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. A government-issued ID for the parents and a passport photo of the child are also required.

Step 3: Parental Consent and Submitting the Application

You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. Bring the required documents, such as proof of citizenship, a passport photo, and the application fee.  

Both parents/guardians must provide consent by attending the appointment together with the child. Use form DS-3053 or provide a written statement agreeing to the passport. They need to get this statement notarized and include a copy of their ID.

 If one or both parents or guardians cannot attend, a legal explanation for the absence must be submitted.

A child’s passport costs $100. There is also a $35 passport acceptance facility fee that covers the cost of getting your identities verified.

Once your identities have been verified, the acceptance agent will allow you to sign the application, which will then be submitted for processing soon after.

How to Get a Name Change

To update your passport due to a name change, follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine the Right Form

The form you use depends on how recently you were issued a passport.

Use Form DS-5504 if the name change occurred within a year of issuance. 

If more than a year has passed, use Form DS-82.

Both forms can be found online and in person at an acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or courthouse.

For those using form DS-82, follow the steps for renewal and provide documentation for a name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Step 2: Provide Documentation

Submit legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Mail the completed form, current passport, and supporting documents to the appropriate processing center. 

You cannot apply online for a name change.

Expedited Passport Services

If you need your passport quickly, the Passport Office can assist with any type of application. Whether you’re applying for a new, renewed, or name-change passport, their services can help you get it quickly. Walk-in and virtual appointments are available for added convenience.

With expedited services, passports can be received in as little as 3-5 days.

Final Thoughts

Getting a passport doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the process and choosing the right application, you can get one without unnecessary delays.

If you’re looking for a faster way to get a passport, The Passport Office can help with expedited services in as little as 3-5 days. Whether you need a new passport, renewal, or name change, we are ready to assist with the entire process.

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