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Passport Information

This page offers general information and web site links that can help you when you apply for a passport.

If you do not have a passport you need to visit the government's passport website for all the information you need to obtain one.

When To Start
In general, the passport application process can twelve weeks or more to complete, so it's best to get started as soon as possible — even if your trip is months away. 

Click here for information on how to get your passport quickly. 

How To Check On An Application
After a week, shorter for expedited service, you can check the status of your passport online here.

What You Need
You must appear in person at the passport location when you are applying for a passport for the first time. This includes minors.

Here are the documents you will need in most cases:

1. U.S. Government DS-11 Application
Download the application from the government site to be certain you have the latest form.

Tip: You will need to complete this form, but do NOT sign it until you are at the passport location where the Passport Acceptance Agent will instruct you. If you sign the application form before you get there, it will not be accepted and you will be asked to fill out a new form!

Tip: Don't use white-out or correction tape on the application; you will be asked to fill out a new form.

2. Proof of Citizenship
You may prove U.S. Citizenship with any one of the following:

  • Previous U.S. Passport (mutilated, altered, or damaged passports are not acceptable as evidence of U.S. citizenship.)
  • Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state

Tip: A certified birth certificate has a registrar's raised, embossed, impressed or multicolored seal, registrar’s signature, and the date the certificate was filed with the registrar's office, which must be within 1 year of your birth. Please note that some short (abstract) versions of birth certificates may not be acceptable for passport purposes.

Tip: Your certified birth certificate will be submitted with the passport application. That means you will not have it for approximately eight weeks. If you will need the certificate during that time — for example, to register your child to attend kindergarten or to play soccer — be sure to make a copy.

3. Current Valid Identification
Current valid ID with a signature, photo and physical description. You may prove your identity with any one of these:

  • Previous U.S. passport (mutilated, altered, or damaged passports are not acceptable as proof of identity.)
  • Naturalization Certificate
  • Current, valid
    • Driver's license
    • Government ID: city, state or federal
    • Military ID: military and dependents

Tip: A social security card is not considered valid identification.

4. Two Current Color Photos
Visit the government site for the particulars of a passport photo, including size and acceptable attire.

Tip: Some passport locations offer photos at an additional charge. Call your location to find out.

5. Payment
Click here to see passport fees. Different locations accept different forms of payment. Be sure to check with your individual passport location to verify its acceptable methods of payment. Visit the US Government site for the methods of payment accepted. You can request Expedited Service to obtain your passport faster than the normal processing time.

6. Social Security Number
There are 14 Passport Agencies and over 7,000 public places that accept passport applications. To find the locations nearest to you, including locations that offer handicap access and photos on-site or nearby, enter your zip code in the form at the US Government site.

Tip: Be sure to contact your location to verify acceptable forms of payment, hours of operation, and need for an appointment.

Renewing a Passport
You can renew your passport by mail or in person. Download U.S. Government's Renewal Form DS-82 and review the U.S. Government's information on renewing passports.