U.S. First Passport Checklist
Applying for a first U.S. passport requires completing Form DS-11 and appearing in person at a passport acceptance facility. Do not sign DS-11 before you arrive — an agent must witness your signature.
Quick answer
You typically need a completed DS-11 (left unsigned), original proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued photo ID plus a photocopy of its front and back, a compliant passport photo, and fees of around $130 (application) + $35 (execution). You must appear in person.
Documents you may need
- Form DS-11 — completed but NOT signed; download from travel.state.gov or fill out at the acceptance facility
- Proof of U.S. citizenship — original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, or Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship
- Government-issued photo ID — driver's license or state ID (must show name, photo, and date of birth)
- Photocopy of the front and back of your photo ID on a single sheet
- One compliant passport photo — 2×2 inch, white background, taken within the last 6 months; see State Dept photo guidelines
- Application fee (currently ~$130) and execution fee (currently ~$35) — check travel.state.gov for current amounts; check or money order made to 'U.S. Department of State'
- In-person appearance at a passport acceptance facility (post office, library, or clerk of court) is required for first-time applicants
Common mistakes
- Signing DS-11 before the agent witnesses it — if you sign early, your form is invalid and you must start over
- Bringing a photocopy of your birth certificate instead of an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted
- Forgetting the photocopy of your photo ID — the photocopy is required in addition to showing the original
- Using a photo that doesn't meet State Dept specs (wrong size, background, or taken more than 6 months ago)
- Not budgeting enough time — routine processing commonly takes 6–8 weeks; expedited takes 2–3 weeks; check current times on travel.state.gov
Official sources
- Apply for a U.S. passport (State Dept)
- Current fees (State Dept)
- Photo requirements (State Dept)
- Find a passport acceptance facility
Last reviewed: June 2026
Frequently asked questions
- What form do I need for a first U.S. passport?
- Form DS-11. Download it from travel.state.gov or pick it up at a passport acceptance facility. Do not sign it until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent.
- Where do I apply for a first U.S. passport?
- At a passport acceptance facility — commonly a post office, library, or clerk of court. Use the facility finder on travel.state.gov to find a location near you. You must appear in person.
- What counts as proof of U.S. citizenship?
- A certified U.S. birth certificate is the most common document. You can also use a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a previous U.S. passport. Photocopies are not accepted — you need the original or a certified copy.
- How long does a first passport take?
- Routine processing commonly takes 6–8 weeks. Expedited processing (additional fee) takes around 2–3 weeks. Current processing times are posted on travel.state.gov.
- Can I expedite a first passport?
- Yes — pay the expedite fee and request expedited service when you apply. If you have imminent travel, you may be able to make an appointment at a regional passport agency.
This is a simplified guide. Passport requirements can change without notice. Always confirm the final documents, fees, photos, and application method on the official passport authority website before applying.