Your Free Guide to Getting a U.S. Passport

Whether you’re planning a dream vacation abroad, attending an international business conference, or simply visiting family in another country, one essential document you’ll need is a passport. A passport is not just a ticket to international travel; it’s an important form of identification and proof of citizenship.

In today’s globalized world, having a passport is more crucial than ever, even if you don’t have immediate travel plans. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a passport—from understanding what it is and why you need one to navigating the application process, meeting photo requirements, and more. Let’s get started on the journey toward obtaining this vital travel document.

What is a Passport?

A passport is an official travel document issued by a government that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder. It serves as a form of identification when traveling internationally, allowing you to enter and exit foreign countries and return to your home country.

A passport is only valid for a period of 10 years for adults 16 and older and five years for 15 and younger. children. Before it expires, you’ll need to renew it so that it remains valid. To learn more about renewing your passport, see the “Passport Renewals” section.

The passport is a small booklet that contains crucial information about you, such as:

Your full name
Your date of birth
Your place of birth
A recent photograph
A unique passport number

There are different types of passports that you can get, each serving a specific purpose. The most common is the regular passport, issued to ordinary citizens for general travel purposes. For government employees or those traveling on official government business, an official passport may be provided. Meanwhile, diplomatic passports are granted to diplomats and government officials representing their country abroad. Regardless of the type, a passport plays a vital role in verifying your identity and citizenship when you are outside your home country.

Passport Book vs. Passport Card

When applying for a U.S. passport, you have the option to choose between a traditional passport book and a passport card, or you can opt for both. While both documents serve as proof of your U.S. citizenship and identity, they differ significantly in terms of usage, travel options, and cost. Understanding these differences will help you decide which option is best suited for your travel needs.

A passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized version of the traditional passport book. It looks similar to a driver’s license and is designed for specific types of travel.

The passport card is primarily intended for U.S. citizens traveling by land or sea to neighboring countries, such as Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean islands. It is not valid for international air travel, so if you plan to fly abroad, a passport book is necessary.

Both the passport book and card are valid for the same duration: 10 years for adults and five years for minors. However, it’s important to remember that the card’s limited scope means it cannot be used for air travel outside the approved regions.

Reasons to Get a Passport

Having a passport is essential for several reasons, even if you don’t plan to travel immediately. Firstly, most countries require a passport for entry, making it a fundamental requirement for international travel. Even if your travel plans are not immediate, having a valid passport means you’re ready for any unexpected opportunities, emergencies, or spontaneous trips abroad.

Certain destinations allow easier or visa-free access for passport holders, especially if you hold a passport from a country with favorable travel agreements. This can make travel smoother and more cost-effective.

Beyond travel, a passport also serves as a globally recognized form of identification. It may be required when applying for visas, opening bank accounts, or obtaining certain government services while abroad.

Moreover, in emergency situations like natural disasters or political unrest, having a passport ensures you have the documentation needed to prove your citizenship and secure safe passage back to your home country. Essentially, a passport is not just a travel document but a vital piece of identification that offers peace of mind and readiness for any international situations you might encounter.

How to Apply for a First-Time Passport

Applying for a passport for the first time can seem daunting, but the process is pretty straightforward. Here is the usual process of applying for an adult U.S. passport:

Find the Right Form: For first-time applicants, the required form is the DS-11. You can download this form from the U.S. Department of State’s website or pick it up at a passport acceptance facility.
- Download DS-11 here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds11_pdf.PDF
Gather Required Documents:
- Proof of Citizenship: This could be a certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previous U.S. passport.
- Proof of Identity: Acceptable forms include a valid driver’s license, government ID, or military ID.
- Photocopies: You’ll need photocopies of your citizenship and identification documents.
Prepare Passport Photos: You’ll need two identical passport-sized photos that meet the specific requirements (more info in the “Passport Photo Requirements” section).
Submit Your Application:
- Submit it in person, at a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, courthouse, or public library.
  1. Find a passport acceptance facility here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
- Bring all required documents, completed application form, and passport photos.
Pay the Required Fees:
- Fees vary based on the type of passport you need (book, card, or both) and whether you need expedited processing. Learn more about fees in the “Passport Fees” section. Payments can typically be made by check, money order, or credit card.
Receive Your Passport:
- Processing time for a regular passport can take 10-13 weeks, while expedited service typically takes 7-9 weeks. You may be able to get 1-2 day delivery as well. See the “Processing Times and Expedited Services” section for more.

Applying for a Minor’s Passport

Applicants who are 16 or 17 years of age can generally apply for their own passport if:

They have their own current photo ID; and
They show that at least one parent or legal guardian is aware they are applying.

To prove that at least one parent or guardian is aware, applicants must complete one of the following tasks:

Parent Applies with Them: At least one parent or legal guardian can apply in person with the applicant and must sign Form DS-11. They must also provide a photocopy of their ID.
Parent Signs a Note: The applicant can submit a signed note from their legal parent or guardian along with a photocopy of their ID.
Parent Pays Fees: The applicant can submit proof that their legal parent or guardian is paying their passport fees. For instance, the parent or guardian’s name appears on the check or money order.
Notarized Statement: Applicants may be asked to submit a notarized statement from their legal parent or guardian stating they can have a passport. They’ll also need to include a photocopy of their ID.

The application process for minors who are not 16 or 17, or cannot apply on their own according to the requirements above, requires both parents or legal guardians to be present at the time of application and will need to provide a photocopy of each ID.

If that’s not possible, the absent parent must provide a notarized consent form (DS-3053). Download the form here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds3053.pdf

Single parents or parents with sole legal custody should submit one of the following forms to verify this:

A court order granting you sole custody, or giving you permission to apply for your child’s passport
Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or adoption decree listing you as the only parent
Certified copy of the death certificate of the parent that cannot appear in person
If the legal guardian of the child is an office or private institution, provide:
- A certified copy of the court order which says the office or institution is the child’s guardian.
- Written approval from the office or institution that the individual applying for the child can apply. Include a completed Form DS-3053
- The employee ID of the individual applying to show they work for the office or institution.
Certified copy of the judicial declaration of incompetence of the parent that cannot appear in person

If you share custody of the child with someone who you cannot find or contact, you’ll need to submit a Statement of Special Family Circumstances: DS-5525. Download the form here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds5525.pdf

You’ll also need to complete Form DS-11 for minors, which, unlike adult renewals, must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility. Find the nearest passport acceptance facility here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/

Along with the form, provide proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, and proof of the relationship between the child and the parents or guardians (birth certificate, adoption decree, or court order).

Passport Photo Requirements

Getting your passport photo right is crucial. Even minor mistakes can lead to delays or rejection of your application.

Adults

Here are the requirements for U.S. passport photos for adults:

Size and Dimensions: The photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size.
Position: Your head should be positioned in the center of the photo. Your entire head should appear in the photo.
Background Color: The background should be plain white or off-white.
Photo Quality: The photo must be in color, high resolution, and printed on photo-quality paper. Blurred or pixelated photos will not be accepted. Ensure the photo is not too dark (has shadows) or too bright (overexposed).
Expression and Attire: You must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open. Head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons, and you must provide a signed statement explaining the exception.
No Accessories: Glasses, sunglasses, headphones, or hats are not allowed in the photo unless they are required for medical reasons.
No Digital Retouching: The photo cannot have any digital editing, such as filters or cropping.

Infants

For infants, many of the same requirements apply. However, it’s important to note that there should be no other person appearing in the infant’s photo. The U.S. Department of State recommends placing the infant in a car seat with a white or off-white blanket as the background.

The infant’s eyes do not have to be fully open; it is acceptable if they are partially open. Make sure that if you’re photographing an infant for a passport photo, the child’s full face appears in the photo. This means no pacifiers or other objects that block the mouth, like the child’s hands touching his or her face.

Checking Your Photo

It may be a good idea to check that your photo meets all the requirements before submitting your application. You can use the Department of State’s Photo Tool to see how your photo holds up. Access the tool here: https://tsg.phototool.state.gov/photo

Passport Photo Centers

If you’re worried about meeting all the requirements when taking your passport photo, don’t worry. You always have the option to visit a professional photo service that offers passport photos. These service centers are equipped with professional cameras, backgrounds, lighting and understand the requirements to ensure that your photo meets the criteria.

Processing Times and Expedited Services

The time it takes to receive your passport depends on several factors, including the method of application, the time of year, and whether you opt for standard or expedited service. Knowing the typical processing times and how to request expedited services can help you plan your application accordingly and avoid any last-minute travel stress.

Standard Processing Times

Under normal circumstances, the standard processing time for a passport application is 10-13 weeks. This timeframe begins from the day the U.S. Department of State receives your application, not the day you submit it at the acceptance facility. The processing time can vary depending on seasonal demand; it tends to be longer during peak travel seasons, such as spring and summer.

The Department of State updates its website with current processing times so you can plan accordingly. Check the most current processing times here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html

For those who are applying for the first time or renewing an expired passport, it is advisable to apply well in advance of any planned travel to accommodate these processing times. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include the time it may take for your application to reach the passport processing center by mail or for your new passport to be delivered back to you after processing.

Expedited Processing Options

If you need your passport sooner, you can request expedited processing for an additional (see the “Passport Fees” section for more information). Expedited service reduces the processing time to approximately 7-9 weeks. To request expedited service, you must pay the extra fee at the time of application and indicate your need for expedited processing on your application form.

Expedited applications are processed more quickly, but it is still important to apply as early as possible. Keep in mind that external factors, such as postal delays or an unexpected surge in demand, can still impact the actual time it takes to receive your passport.

Passport Fees

When applying for a passport, understanding the associated fees is essential to avoid any surprises during the process. The cost of obtaining a passport depends on several factors, including the type of passport you need, whether you are applying for the first time or renewing, and whether you require expedited processing.

Breakdown of Passport Fees

Passport Book: The standard passport book, which allows for international travel by air, sea, and land, costs $130 for adults (aged 16 and older) and $100 for minors (under 16). This fee is the application fee and must be paid at the time of applying.
Passport Card: The fee for an adult passport card is $30, while the fee for a minor is $15. This option may be ideal for travelers who frequently cross borders by land or sea within the Western Hemisphere.
Both Passport Book and Card: If you need both a passport book and a passport card, the total cost for an adult will be $160 and $115 for minors.
Execution Fee: For first-time applicants and minors under 16, there is an additional $35 execution fee. This fee is charged to cover the cost of processing your application at an authorized acceptance facility, such as a post office or courthouse. This fee is separate from the application fee and must be paid to the facility directly.

Payment Methods

The payment methods accepted depend on where you apply. Most acceptance facilities will accept payments by check (personal, certified, or cashier’s), money order, or credit/debit card.

However, the U.S. Department of State only accepts checks and money orders for the application fee if applying by mail. It’s essential to verify the payment methods accepted by your specific acceptance facility in advance.

When paying at a passport acceptance facility, be prepared to make two separate payments: one for the passport application fee (payable to the U.S. Department of State) and another for the execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility, such as the post office). The execution fee is generally paid by check, money order, or cash, depending on the facility’s policies.

Expedited Services and Additional Fees

If you need your passport faster than the standard processing time of 10-13 weeks, you can request expedited service. The expedited processing fee is an additional $60 and reduces the processing time to about 7-9 weeks.

This fee is added to your total application cost and must be paid at the time of application. For even faster service, you may also opt for a 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport for an extra $21.36. This fee covers the cost of overnight shipping to ensure your passport reaches you as quickly as possible.

Special Considerations and Refunds

It’s important to note that passport fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or if you cancel your application after submission. If you believe there was an error in processing, you can contact the U.S. Department of State for further assistance, but the fees themselves cannot be returned once paid.

Passport Denials

Receiving a denial for your passport application can be frustrating, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. However, understanding the common reasons for denial and knowing how to resolve these issues can help you take the necessary steps to address the problem and reapply successfully.

Here’s what you should know if your passport application is denied.

Common Reasons for Denial

Several factors can lead to the denial of a passport application. Some of the most common reasons include:

Incomplete or Incorrect Application: Errors on your application form, missing signatures, or incomplete information are common reasons for denial. It’s crucial to double-check all details before submitting your application.
Insufficient Proof of Citizenship or Identity: Failing to provide adequate proof of citizenship (like a certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate) or valid identification (such as a driver’s license or government ID) can result in denial. Make sure all documents are current, legible, and meet the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.
Unacceptable Passport Photo: Passport photo requirements are strict, and photos that do not meet these standards, such as incorrect size, poor quality, or improper background, can cause an application to be rejected.
Outstanding Debts to the U.S. Government: Certain financial obligations, such as unpaid child support exceeding $2,500 or unresolved federal tax debts, may prevent the issuance of a passport.
Pending Legal Matters or Restrictions: Individuals involved in certain legal matters, such as those with outstanding arrest warrants, court orders, or parole or probation restrictions, may be ineligible for a passport until those matters are resolved.

What to Do if Your Application is Denied

If your passport application is denied, here are some things you can do:

Review the Denial Notice: Carefully read the denial notice you receive from the U.S. Department of State. This notice will provide the specific reason(s) for the denial and may include instructions on how to resolve the issue or what additional documentation is needed.
Correct the Issues: Depending on the reason for denial, you may need to correct errors on your application, provide additional or updated documentation, or submit a new passport photo that meets all requirements. Make sure to address all the points mentioned in the denial notice.
Reapply or Appeal: In many cases, you can correct the issues and reapply. If you believe the denial was made in error, you may appeal the decision by writing a letter explaining your situation and providing any supporting documents that demonstrate why the denial should be reconsidered. Send this appeal to the address provided in your denial notice.
Contact the National Passport Information Center: If you are unsure why your application was denied or how to proceed, contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) for assistance. They can help clarify the issues and guide you through the steps needed to resolve them.

Tips for Avoiding Future Denials

To reduce the likelihood of having your passport application denied in the future, you should always double-check your application: Carefully review every detail on your application form for accuracy and completeness before submission. Ensure that all required fields are filled out, signatures are included, and any necessary corrections are made.

Also, make sure you submit all the required documents and that they are current, unexpired, and in good condition. Originals are typically required, so avoid sending photocopies unless specified.

Be sure to check that your photo adheres to the passport photo guidelines, including size, background color, and facial expression. Consider using a professional photo service to ensure your photos meet all the standards.

Understanding How to Reapply

If you need to reapply after a denial, you will generally need to start the process again, including filling out a new application form and paying the required fees. However, if you can resolve the issues listed in the denial notice, reapplying can be straightforward. Be sure to act promptly, especially if you have travel plans, and consider using expedited services to minimize any delays.

Passport Renewals

Renewing your passport can be a bit easier (and faster) than applying for a new one, but it still requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth process. If your passport is expiring soon or has already expired, here’s the general process of renewing it to keep your travel plans on track.

Requirements for Passport Renewal

There are a few different ways you can renew your passport. The method which you can follow depends on a few factors.

Renewing Online

The government recently created the option to renew passport books and cards online. To renew your passport online, you must typically meet all of the following criteria:

Have an undamaged regular passport that is in your possession
Live in the U.S. or in a U.S. territory
Be at least 25 years of age
Do not have to change your name, gender, date of birth or place of birth
Do not plan to travel for at least 8 weeks from the date you will submit your application
Have a digital passport photo that meets all requirements
Have the ability to pay the renewal fee electronically via credit or debit card, ACH payment, or PayPal

To renew online, you’ll need to create an account with the U.S. Department of State. Use this link to create an account: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=Renew%20Online%20TSG&utm_id=Renew%20Online%20TSG

You don’t have the complete the renewal application in one sitting; the online system allows you to save it and finish later. Just note that you only have 30 days to complete your application after you start it. After this time frame, you’ll need to start over.

Checking Eligibility

To proceed with the online renewal, enter your details exactly as they appear on the passport you are renewing. If you think you should qualify for online renewal but encounter an issue, try again; there might be a temporary technical glitch in the system.

If the system is telling you that you can’t complete an online renewal, the application should list the reasons why. Be sure to carefully review and re-enter your information to ensure its accuracy. Also, make sure that your most recent passport (the one you’re renewing) was valid for 10 years. It must either be expiring within the next year or have expired less than five years ago.

Double Check Information

Make sure to take a look at the spelling, capitalization, hyphens, and spaces in your name, and ensure they match exactly as printed on your most recent passport. For example, if your last name is “McDavid” but appears as “Mc David” (with a space) on your passport, enter it as “Mc Donald” (including the space).

If your name is “Johnson-Lee” (with a hyphen) and is printed with the hyphen in your passport, try entering it as “Johnson Lee” (without the hyphen) or “JohnsonLee” (with no space).

Saving the Application

Online Processing Times

The time it takes to renew a passport online is the same for mail renewals, which is between 10-13 weeks.

Renewing by Mail

If you cannot or do not want to renew online, you can generally renew by mail if your passport:

Is undamaged and in your possession.
Was issued when you were 16 years or older.
Was issued within the last 15 years.
Was issued in your current name, or you can provide legal documentation (such as a marriage certificate or court order) for a name change.

If your passport doesn’t meet these criteria, you’ll need to apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11 instead of renewing. See the “How to Apply for a Passport” section for more information about applying.

To renew your passport, you need to complete Form DS-82, which you can download from the U.S. Department of State’s website here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds82_pdf.pdf

Gathering Info and Documents

Gather your current passport, a new passport photo (see “Passport Photo Requirements”), and any documents supporting a name change (see “Special Cases When Renewing Your Passport”), if applicable. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee, which is currently $130 for adults.

Mail your completed form, passport, photo, and payment to the address listed on the form. It’s essential to use a secure shipping method with tracking to prevent any loss or delays.

Mail-In Processing Times

The processing time for a passport renewal is similar to that of a new passport application: 10-13 weeks for standard service and 7-9 weeks for expedited service. If you need your passport sooner, you can request expedited processing by adding an additional $60 to the renewal fee.

Special Cases When Renewing Your Passport

If the name you now use differs from the one on your most recent U.S. passport, you’ll need to submit a certified copy of a legal document that verifies your name change.

Acceptable documents include:

A marriage certificate
A divorce decree
A court order granting a name change

Please note that the Department of State will send your original name change document back to you separately from your new passport.

If you need to renew your passport quickly due to urgent travel or emergency circumstances, you can make an appointment at a passport agency. This service is generally available for those traveling within 14 days. Be sure to bring all required documentation and proof of travel or emergency to your appointment.

Renewing your passport well before its expiration will help avoid any unexpected delays that could affect your travel plans. Always check your passport’s expiration date and renew it at least six months before any planned international trip.

Lost or Stolen Passports

Losing your passport or having it stolen can be stressful, especially if you’re traveling abroad. However, knowing the steps to take in advance can help you act quickly and minimize disruption to your plans.

What to Do If Your Passport is Lost or Stolen

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State to prevent identity theft and unauthorized use. You can do this in one of two ways:

Contact U.S. Passports by phone
- Call 1-877-487-2778
Visit the State Department’s website to report it online (adult passports only)
- Access the online system here: https://pptform.state.gov/
Complete and mail DS-64 form (adult or child passports)
- Access form DS-64 here: https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds64_pdf.pdf

If you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can help you report the loss and assist with obtaining an emergency replacement passport. You will need to provide proof of identity and citizenship, such as a photocopy of your lost passport, a driver’s license, or other government-issued ID, as well as a police report, if available.

Applying for a Replacement Passport

It’s important to understand that simply reporting a passport as lost or stolen does not replace it. To get a new one, you’ll have to apply in person using both DS-11 (application for a new passport) and DS-64 (for lost or stolen passports).

You’ll also need to bring a new passport photo and any proof of identity you have. If you are in the U.S., you will also need to provide proof of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.

When applying for a replacement, expect to pay the standard fees for a new passport, which are currently $130 for adults. If you need expedited service, you will have to pay an additional $60. Replacement passports can take the same amount of time to process as a new or renewed passport, but in emergency situations, an embassy or consulate may issue a limited-validity passport more quickly.

Checking the Status of a Passport Application

Once you have submitted your passport application, it’s natural to want to know how things are progressing. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of State provides several ways to check the status of your passport application. Here’s how to stay updated on your application status:

Checking Online

The fastest way to check the status of your passport application is through the U.S. Department of State’s online tool, which is available here: https://passportstatus.state.gov/

To use this tool, you’ll need to enter the following information into the proper fields:

Last name
Date of birth
Last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN)

Keep in mind that it may take up to two weeks from the date you apply for your application status to be available in the system. If you don’t see your status right away, check back periodically.

Checking by Phone

If you prefer to check your status by phone, you can call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY). This service is usually available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, excluding federal holidays. An automated system is available to provide your application status, or you can speak with a customer service representative during business hours.

Signing Up for Email Updates

You can sign up to receive email updates regarding your passport application status. When going through the process of checking your status online, there is an option at the end to enroll in email notifications. This can ensure you receive updates directly in your inbox as your application moves through the processing stages.

Understanding Application Status Updates

When you check your status, you might see different messages indicating where your application stands. These could range from “In Process,” which means your application is being reviewed, to “Approved” and “Passport Mailed,” which indicates your passport is being printed and will soon be mailed to you.

What to Do if There Are Delays

If your application status has not changed after several weeks or if it shows any concerning updates, such as “Action Required,” you should contact the National Passport Information Center for further assistance. They can be reached by phone at 1-877-487-2778.

Delays can occur due to incomplete applications, missing documentation, or other issues that need to be resolved. Addressing these issues promptly can help keep your passport processing on track.