How Do I Apply for a U.S. Passport?

If you’ve recently acquired U.S. citizenship, you’re probably looking forward to the advantage of carrying a U.S. passport.

Recognized as one of the most widely accepted passports in the world, the U.S. passport grants travelers access to over 180 countries without the need to apply for a special visa.

If you’re a new citizen and you’re excited to apply for your first passport, you’ll probably have some questions. To help with the process we’ve put together some information explaining each step of your passport application process.

In this guide we will cover these questions:

• How do I apply for a passport?
• Should my documents be translated into English?
• Can I apply for a U.S. passport from abroad?
• What is the cost to apply for a passport?
• How long will it take to process my passport application?
• What if I need my passport fast?
• How do I renew my passport?

How do I apply for a passport?

Step 1: Fill Out Form DS-11

The first thing you’ll need to do is fill out Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. Applicants have two options for completing the form.

The first option is to print out the form and write the information by hand.

The second option is to use an online tool which the U.S. Department of State created. The tool allows people to enter their information before printing. It’s important to note that this tool is not an online application. Instead, it is simply a way for folks to digitally enter the required information, and they are still required to print the form.

Step 2: Submit Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Next, you’ll need to submit primary evidence that you’re a U.S. citizen. If you recently became a citizen through naturalization, you can use your Certificate of Naturalization as proof.

If you’re unable to submit your Certificate of Naturalization for any reason, you may be able to use secondary evidence. For examples of acceptable primary and secondary evidence of citizenship, along with guidance on gathering your documents, you can visit the Citizenship Evidence website created by the U.S. State Department.

Step 3: Present a Valid ID

In addition to primary evidence, you’ll need to present a current, legal identification. You’ll also need to make a photocopy of the front and back of that same legal identification.

State-issued driver’s licenses, military IDs, and current foreign passports are generally accepted. For an in depth list of acceptable legal identification, you can visit the Citizenship Evidence website.

Step 4: Include Passport-Style Photo

You will also be required to include one passport-style photo with your application. To avoid processing delays, make sure your photo meets the same photo requirements as a passport photo.

Those requirements are as follows:

• The photo must have been taken in the last 6 months.
• The size of the photo must be 2 inches tall by 2 inches wide (2”x2”) or (51 x 51 mm).
• The image of your face must be clear and have no digital touch-ups or filters.
• The photo cannot be a “selfie”. It should be taken with a timer, or by another person.
• You must take off eyeglasses when taking the photo.
• Use a white or off-white background without shadows, texture, or lines.

Likewise, you must not attach or staple your photo to your application.

If you’re uncomfortable taking your own photo, some passport acceptance facilities can take your photo for a fee.

Step 5: Apply in Person at a Passport Acceptance Facility

If you’ve recently become a citizen, this is probably the first time you’re applying for a U.S. passport.

Anyone who is applying for their first passport, is required to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. These facilities are designated by the U.S. State Department and they can be located in courthouses, post offices, public libraries, and more.

The easiest way to find a passport acceptance facility in your zipcode is by utilizing the U.S. State Department’s online tool.

You’ll then need to submit your completed Form DS-11 along with the aforementioned citizenship evidence documents, the photocopy of your legal identification, and passport-style photo. You’ll also need to pay the required filing fee.

After you’ve submitted your application, you can use the U.S. State Department’s website to check your application status online. You’ll need to submit your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number.

Should my documents be translated into English?

At this point in your naturalization journey, you’ll most likely be able to demonstrate your U.S. citizenship without any issues. However, if you’re a U.S. citizen who was born abroad or lived the early years of your life abroad, you may have some documents in a foreign language.

According to the U.S. Department of State, if you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit an English translation.To guarantee that your passport application is processed without problems, it’s best to use a certified translation.

Some documents that commonly need to be translated for passport applications include:

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Baptism certificate
• Hospital birth certificate (often shows baby’s footprints)
• U.S. Census record
• Early school records
• Family Bible record

You can order a certified translation of these documents from our online store:

Order Your Certified Translation

Can I apply for a U.S. passport from abroad?

Obtaining a passport from outside the United States differs from applying for a passport from inside the country.

U.S. citizens who live abroad typically need to submit their passport applications in person at a local U.S. embassy or consulate.

Each U.S. embassy and consulate has its own procedures and prerequisites for passport services. Citizens who reside outside the U.S. can refer to the official webpage of the embassy or consulate in that country for detailed information.

What is the cost to apply for a passport?

There are different fees associated with applying for a passport depending on if you’re applying for the first time. The fees are also different depending on your age.

For people who are 16 and older that are applying for the first time, there are two fees:

• Application Fee: $130
• Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35

For people who are under the age of 16 that are applying for the first time, the fee is slightly less:

• Application Fee: $100
• Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35

The U.S. Department of State provides a fee calculator in which you enter information specific to you. On that page, you’ll need to enter the country where you live, your date of birth, and whether or not you’ve applied for a passport before.

How long will it take to process my passport application?

The current processing time for a normal passport application (Form DS-11) is 6-8 weeks.

However, it is important to note that processing times regularly change. For example, throughout most of 2023, the processing times were from 8-11 weeks. It is important to keep this in mind when planning for travel. Applying as soon as possible is the best practice.

What if I need my passport fast?

The current processing time for a normal expedited passport application is 2-3 weeks.

If you have urgent travel plans, you may be able to have your passport application expedited. The fee for expedited processing is $60. In this case, you’ll need to call 1-877-487-2778.

There are two different types of urgent travel services and those are 1. Life or death emergency service 2. Urgent travel service.

Life-or-death emergency service

In case of a life-or-death emergency it may be possible to have your passport processed within 3 business days. You can only qualify for this service if you have an immediate family member who has died or is dying. In this case, you will need documentation to prove your immediate family member is dead or dying.

Examples of documentation include:

• Death certificate
• Statement from a mortuary
• Letter from the hospital,signed by the doctor/medical professional, explaining your relative’s medical condition.

NOTE: If any of the above documentation is not in English, you must have a certified translation.

You can order a certified translation of these documents from our online store:

Order Your Certified Translation

Urgent travel service

To qualify for urgent travel service, you must schedule your appointment within 14 calendar days of your international travel. You will need to schedule an appointment online.

However, if you have already applied, and your international travel date is within 5 calendar days, you should call 1-877-487-2778.

Note: Appointments and passport services are not guaranteed.

How do I renew my passport?

U.S. passports for people over the age of 16 are usually valid for 10 years. U.S. passports for people under the age of 16 are usually valid for 5 years. You can visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport renewal information page if you have additional questions, but we will go over each step below.

Step 1: Fill Out Form DS-82

The first thing you’ll need to do is fill out Form DS-82: U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals. Applicants have two options for completing the form.

The first option is to print out the form and write the information by hand.

The second option is to use an online tool which the U.S. Department of State created. The tool allows people to enter their information before printing. It’s important to note that this tool is not an online application. Instead, it is simply a way for folks to digitally enter the required information, and they are still required to print the form.

In the past, it was possible to submit a renewal application online, but the service has been paused by the U.S. Department of State.

Step 2: Include Supporting Documentation

You’ll need to include some documents along with Form DS-82, Renewal Application. Those documents include:

• Your most recent U.S. passport (book and/or card format)
• A certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order if your name has changed
• Passport-style photo which meets the requirements (as explained above in Step 4 of the section titled How do I apply for a passport?)

Step 3: Include Payment

Lastly, you’ll need to include your passport renewal fee. The fees vary depending on multiple factors. For adults, A passport book costs $130. However, if you’re renewing a passport card, the fee is just $30. If you choose to renew both, the price will be $160.

The fee can also vary depending on your age. The best way to determine your exact expenses is to submit your information in the U.S. Department of State’s fee calculator.

Instructions for submitting payment:

Enclose the fee in the form of a personal check or money order. Checks must be made payable to “U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE.”

The full name and date of birth of the applicant must be typed or printed on the front of the check.

DO NOT SEND CASH. Legally, passport services cannot be held responsible for cash sent through the mail. Additionally, it is important to note that the fees are non-refundable.

It is always important to do your own research. Check the USCIS website and the U.S Department of State website to see if you are eligible to apply for a U.S. passport.

Author: Aaron Randolph | LinkedIn