How to Apply for a U.S. Passport: Step-by-Step Instructions

Why You Need a U.S. Passport

A U.S. passport is the most widely recognized travel document in the world. It’s required for international travel and serves as proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. In 2026, nearly 160 million Americans hold a valid passport.

Types of Passport Documents

  • Passport Book: Required for international air travel; valid for 10 years (adults) or 5 years (under 16)
  • Passport Card: Valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda; less expensive
  • Both: You can apply for both at the same time

    • First-Time Applicants

    If you’ve never had a passport or your last one expired more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person.

    Required Documents

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship: Certified birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad
  • Government-issued photo ID: Driver’s license, military ID, or previous passport
  • Photocopy of your ID (front and back)
  • Passport photo: 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, against a white background
  • Completed DS-11 form: Application for a U.S. Passport (fill out but do NOT sign until at the acceptance facility)

    • Fees (2026)

  • Passport book (adult): $130 application fee + $35 execution fee = $165 total
  • Passport card (adult): $30 application fee + $35 execution fee = $65 total
  • Both book and card: $160 application fee + $35 execution fee = $195 total

    • Where to Apply

  • U.S. Post Offices that accept passport applications
  • Public libraries
  • County clerk offices
  • Federal and state courts

    • Find acceptance facilities at iafdb.travel.state.gov.

    Passport Renewal

    You can renew by mail if your most recent passport:

  • Was issued when you were 16 or older
  • Was issued less than 15 years ago
  • Is undamaged and in your possession
  • Was issued in your current legal name (or you have documentation of name change)

    • Mail renewal form: DS-82
    Fees: $130 for a book, $30 for a card

    Processing Times (2026)

  • Routine: 6-8 weeks
  • Expedited: 2-3 weeks (additional $60 fee)
  • Life-or-death emergency: Same day or next day at a regional passport agency (appointment required)

    • Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Apply well in advance — at least 3-4 months before travel
  • Double-check photo requirements before getting your photo taken
  • Do not sign form DS-11 until instructed by the acceptance agent
  • Pay fees by check or money order (make checks payable to U.S. Department of State)
  • Track your application at passportstatus.state.gov

    • Lost or Stolen Passports

    Report immediately at travel.state.gov or by calling 1-877-487-2778. A lost or stolen passport must be reported before you can apply for a new one.

    Resources

  • State Department: travel.state.gov
  • National Passport Information Center: 1-877-487-2778
  • Appointment scheduling: passportappointment.travel.state.gov