Who needs a first-time application (DS-11)
- Anyone who has never had a U.S. passport
- Applicants whose last passport was issued before age 16
- Anyone whose passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
- Passports issued more than 15 years ago
Step-by-step
- 1. Fill Form DS-11 — online at travel.state.gov or by hand in black ink. Do not sign it yet.
- 2. Gather citizenship evidence — certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad
- 3. Bring photo ID — driver's license, military ID, or government ID + a photocopy (front and back)
- 4. One passport photo — 2×2 in, white background, no glasses
- 5. Pay two fees — $130 application (check/money order to State Dept) + $35 execution fee to the acceptance facility
- 6. Apply in person — at a post office, courthouse, library, or acceptance facility. Sign the DS-11 in front of the agent.
Total cost: $165
| Application fee (State Dept) | $130 |
| Execution fee (acceptance facility) | $35 |
| Optional: expedite | +$60 |
| Optional: 1-2 day return delivery | +$21.36 |
Where to apply
Over 7,000 acceptance facilities nationwide: most post offices, many public libraries, county clerks, and courthouses. Search by ZIP at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Many require appointments — book ahead in spring/summer.
Processing times
- Routine: 6-8 weeks
- Expedited: 2-5 weeks (+$60)
- Courier: 24-72 hours for urgent travel
Urgent?
Recommended Service
First passport in days, not weeks
If your trip is within 14 days, a registered courier can hand-carry your DS-11 to a passport agency. Document pre-review included — critical for first-time applications where errors are most common.
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via APVI — official partner
Citizenship evidence — what counts
- Certified U.S. birth certificate — must have registrar seal, parents' names, and filing date within 1 year of birth
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240)
- Naturalization or citizenship certificate
- Previous undamaged passport (even expired)
Photocopies and hospital-issued certificates are not accepted. If your birth certificate is delayed-registration or missing, see secondary evidence rules at travel.state.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a first passport cost?
$165 total for adults: $130 application fee + $35 execution fee paid to the acceptance facility. Minors under 16 pay $135 total ($100 + $35).
Where do I apply for a first passport?
At any of ~7,000 acceptance facilities: post offices, clerk of court offices, public libraries, and some county offices. Search locations at iafdb.travel.state.gov.
How long does a first passport take?
Routine: 4-6 weeks. Expedited: 2-3 weeks plus $60. Courier or agency appointment: 24-72 hours for urgent travel.
Can I apply for a passport online?
No — first-time applicants must appear in person with Form DS-11. Only renewals have limited online options. Beware of sites claiming otherwise.
What if I was born abroad to U.S. citizen parents?
You may already be a citizen — first obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or Certificate of Citizenship, then apply for the passport with that as citizenship evidence.
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Last reviewed: · PassportsUSA editorial team