Applying for a U.S. passport has become more streamlined in recent years, with expanded online services, stricter photo standards, and updated identity verification procedures. If you are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. For children under age 16, both parents and legal guardians generally must appear with the child.
Official passport information is available on the U.S. Department of State website.
Who Must Apply in Person?
An in-person application is required for:
- First U.S. passport application
- Passport issued before age 16
- Lost, stolen, or damaged passport
- Passport expired more than 15 years ago
- Passport application for a child under age 16
Most first-time applicants use Form DS-11.
Eligible adults may now renew their passports online under certain conditions.
Documents Required for a New US Passport
1. Complete Form DS-11
Complete Form DS-11 online, then print it. The official form is available on the U.S. Department of State website.
Do not sign the form until instructed by the passport acceptance agent.
2. Proof of US Citizenship
Submit one original document, such as:
- U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
You must also provide a photocopy of the document submitted as proof of citizenship.
3. Proof of Identity
Carry a valid government-issued photo ID, such as:
- Driver’s license
- Previous U.S. passport
- Government employee ID
- Military ID
- Naturalization certificate
For children under age 16, both parents must present identification.
4. Passport Photos
You must submit one recent passport photo.
Passport Photo Requirements
- 2×2 inches
- Taken within the last 6 months
- In color
- Full-face view facing the camera
- Plain white or off-white background
- Clear and properly lit
- Neutral facial expression
Important Updates (2026)
The U.S. Department of State now uses stricter biometric and digital photo screening systems.
Recent updates include:
- Glasses generally not permitted except for medical exemptions
- AI-edited or filtered photos may be rejected
- Beauty filters, portrait blur, and heavy editing are not permitted
- Head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical purposes
Official photo guidelines are available on the U.S. Department of State website.
5. Current US Passport Fees (2026)
The passport fee depends on age, passport type, and processing speed.
Adult Applicants (Age 16 and Older)
| Passport Type | Application Fee | Acceptance/Execution Fee | Total |
| Passport Book | $130 | $35 | $165 |
| Passport Card | $30 | $35 | $65 |
| Passport Book + Card | $160 | $35 | $195 |
Minor Applicants (Under Age 16)
| Passport Type | Application Fee | Acceptance/Execution Fee | Total |
| Passport Book | $100 | $35 | $135 |
| Passport Card | $15 | $35 | $50 |
| Passport Book + Card | $115 | $35 | $150 |
Optional Additional Fees
| Service | Fee |
| Expedited Processing | $60 |
| 1–3 Day Passport Delivery | $22.05 |
| File Search Fee | $150 |
The U.S. Department of State updated the processing information and fees in 2026.
Processing Times
| Service Type | Processing Time |
| Routine Service | Approximately 4–6 weeks |
| Expedited Service | Approximately 2–3 weeks |
Mailing time is separate from processing time.
Payment Rules
When applying at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or library:
- The passport application fee must be paid separately to the U.S. Department of State.
- The $35 acceptance fee is paid directly to the acceptance facility.
Accepted payment methods vary by facility.
Many applicants assume the full passport cost can be paid in a single transaction, but separate payments are typically required at passport acceptance facilities.
6. Provide Your Social Security Number
Federal law requires applicants to provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN). Missing SSN information may cause delays or penalties.
Additional Requirements for Children Under Age 16
A. Evidence of Relationship to Parents
Provide documents such as:
- U.S. birth certificate listing both parents
- Adoption decree
- Court custody order
B. Parent Identification
Both parents should carry valid photo identification, such as:
- Driver’s license
- U.S. passport
- Foreign passport
C. Parental Consent Requirement
Usually, both parents must appear with the child. If one parent cannot appear, the applying parent must submit:
- Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent)
- Copy of absent parent’s ID
Where Can You Apply?
You may apply at:
- U.S. Post Offices
- Passport Acceptance Facilities
- Public Libraries
- County Clerk Offices
- Regional Passport Agencies
Trends & Important Updates (2026)
Expanded Online Renewal
Eligible adults can now renew passports online in many situations, reducing mail delays. First-time applicants must still apply in person.
Stricter Digital Photo Screening
AI-enhanced photo screening now automatically detects edited images, filters, shadows, and incorrect dimensions.
Increased Travel Demand
Processing delays may occur during summer and holiday travel seasons. Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance.
REAL ID Awareness
A U.S. passport continues to serve as one of the strongest forms of identification for both domestic and international travel.
Final Tips
- Double-check all forms before your appointment
- Carry both originals and photocopies
- Avoid digitally edited passport photos
- Apply several months before planned travel
- Use expedited service only if necessary
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
For the latest rules, fees, and processing updates, refer to the U.S. Department of State website.
