What to Bring to a Passport Appointment (First-Time Adult Application)

Before you pack: check this is the right list

This checklist is for an adult applying in person for the first time (or an adult who isn’t eligible to renew by mail or online). Renewals by mail or online, and applications for children, have different requirements. Children under 16 generally need both parents or guardians to authorize the passport, and USPS says the best way is for both to attend. Follow the State Department’s current instructions for your case.

1. Form DS-11, filled out but not signed

Complete Form DS-11 using the State Department’s form filler or a printed copy. Don’t sign it in advance — you sign in front of the acceptance agent.

2. Evidence of U.S. citizenship, plus a photocopy

The State Department asks for physical evidence of citizenship — for example a U.S. birth certificate, or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. It says digital or mobile birth certificates are not accepted. Bring:

• the original or a certified replacement with the issuing authority’s seal, and
• a photocopy of it.

The State Department’s page explains what happens to your original document after you apply.

3. A physical photo ID, plus a photocopy of the front and back

Bring one physical primary photo ID, such as a valid driver’s license or state ID, and a photocopy of the front and back on plain white letter-size (8.5 by 11 inch) paper, printed on one side only, as the State Department describes. If your ID is from a different state than the one you are applying in, or your ID has issues, check the State Department’s ID page for what else may be needed.

4. A passport photo

You need one photo that meets the State Department’s photo requirements. Many post offices that take applications also take passport photos for an extra fee; USPS lets you add photo services to your appointment. If you take your own, check it against the official requirements before you go — photo problems are a common cause of delays.

5. Two separate payments

According to the State Department, a first-time application involves two fees paid separately: an application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State, and an execution (acceptance) fee paid to the facility. The State Department fee is paid by check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State”. Each facility decides how it accepts its own fee, so check with yours. Fees change — see the official fee page (external site) for current amounts, including the optional expedite fee.

Optional but useful

• Your appointment confirmation.
• A name-change document (such as a marriage certificate or court order) if your name differs from your citizenship evidence.
• Your travel itinerary if you plan to request expedited service.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Signing the DS-11 before the appointment.
2. Bringing only a photocopy of your birth certificate, or only the original — you need both.
3. Copying only the front of your ID.
4. Bringing a digital birth certificate on your phone.
5. A photo with shadows, glasses or the wrong size.

After the appointment, you can check status online using the State Department’s passport status tool; USPS notes you may not see an update for about two weeks while your application travels to the State Department.