Get DS-11 U.S. Passport application Form

Get DS-11 U.S. Passport application Form

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is designed for individuals applying for their first passport or for those who do not meet specific renewal criteria. Completing this form is a crucial step in securing your travel documents, ensuring you can explore the world with confidence. Ready to get started? Fill out the form by clicking the button below.

Structure

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to obtain their first passport or for those who do not qualify to renew their passport by mail. This form is designed for applicants who are applying in person, which is typically required for first-time applicants, minors, and individuals whose previous passports were lost, stolen, or damaged. The application process involves several key components, including providing personal information such as your name, date of birth, and social security number. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of U.S. citizenship, which can be demonstrated through a birth certificate or a naturalization certificate. A recent passport photo, taken according to specific guidelines, is also necessary. Furthermore, the form requires applicants to indicate their preferred processing time and to pay the associated fees. Completing the DS-11 accurately is essential, as any errors or omissions can delay the processing of your application. Understanding these elements will help ensure a smoother application process and a timely receipt of your passport.

DS-11 U.S. Passport application Preview

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out. For information or questions, visit travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at

1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793) or NPIC@state.gov.

SECTION A. ELIGIBILITY TO USE THIS FORM

This form is used to apply for a U.S. passport book and/or card in person at an acceptance facility, a passport agency (by appointment only), or a U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency (if abroad). The U.S. passport is a travel document attesting to one’s identity and issued to U.S. citizens or non-citizen U.S. nationals. To be eligible to use this form you must apply in person if at least one of the following is true:

I am applying for my first U.S. passport

I am under age 16

My previous U.S. passport was either: a) issued under age 16; b) issued more than 15 years ago; c) lost, stolen, or damaged

If none of the above statements apply to you, then you may be eligible to apply using form DS-82 or DS-5504 depending on your circumstances. NOTE: You may be ineligible to receive a passport if you owe child support or have unpaid federal taxes. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

Notice to Applicants Under Age 16: You must appear in person to apply for a U.S. passport with your parent(s) or legal guardian(s). See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.

Notice to Applicants Ages 16 and 17: At least one of your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must know that you are applying for a U.S. passport. See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.

Notice to Applicants for No-Fee Regular, Service, Official, or Diplomatic Passports: You may use this application if you meet all provisions listed; however, you must consult your sponsoring agency for instructions on proper routing procedures before forwarding this application. Your completed passport will be released to your sponsoring agency and forwarded to you.

SECTION B. STEPS TO APPLY FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

1.Complete this form (Do not sign until requested to do so by an authorized agent).

2.Attach one color photograph 2x2 inches in size and supporting documents (See Section D of these instructions).

3.Schedule appointment to apply in person by visiting our website or calling NPIC (see contact info at the top page).

4.Arrive for appointment and present completed form and attachments to the authorized agent who will administer the oath, witness you signing your form, and collect your passport fee.

5.Track application status online at Passportstatus.state.gov.

6.Receive new passport and original supporting documents (that you submitted with your application).

SECTION C. HOW TO COMPLETE THIS FORM

Please see the instructions below for items on the form that are not self-explanatory. The numbers match the numbered items of the form.

1.Name (Last, First, Middle): Enter the name to appear in the passport. The name to appear in the passport should be consistent with your proof of citizenship and identification. If you have changed your name and are not eligible to use a DS-82 or DS-5504, you must use this form. Visit travel.state.gov/namechange for more information.

2.Date of Birth: Use the following format: Month, Date, and Year (MM/DD/YYYY).

3.Sex: You must select sex marker option “M” (male) or “F” (female) that corresponds with your biological sex at birth.

4.Place of Birth: Enter the name of the city and state if in the U.S. or city and country as presently known.

5.Social Security Number: You must provide a Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one, in accordance with Section 6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E) and 22 U.S.C 2714a(f). If you do not have a Social Security number, you must enter zeros in this field and submit a statement, signed, and dated, that includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” If you reside abroad, you must also provide the name of the foreign country where you reside. The U.S. Department of State must provide your SSN and foreign residence information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury which will use it in connection with debt collection and check against lists of persons ineligible or potentially ineligible to receive a U.S. passport, among other authorized uses. If you fail to provide the information, we may deny your application and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may enforce a penalty. Refer all questions on this matter to the nearest IRS office.

6.USCIS Registration A-Number (A-Number): Enter your nine-digit number (if applicable). If you do not have an A-Number, leave this field blank.

7.Email Address: By providing your email address, you give us approval to send you email messages about the status of your passport and important travel information .

8.Mailing Address Line 1 and 2 "In Care Of": For line 1 enter applicant’s Street/RFD #, or P.O. Box or URB or Apt/Suite #. For line 2, if you do not live at the address listed in this field, put the name of the person who lives at this address and mark it "In Care Of". If the applicant is a minor child, you must include the "In Care Of" name of the parent or adult registered to receive mail at this address.

9.Primary Contact Phone Number and List All Other Names You Have Used: By providing your primary phone number, you give us approval to send you (text and/or SMS) messages about the status of your passport and important travel information. Also, enter all legal names previously used to include maiden name, name changes, and previous married names. You can enter up to two names one in section A and one in section B. If you need more space to write additional names, please use a separate sheet of paper and attach it to this form.)

Bottom Section of Application Page 1 - Identifying Documents and Signature Blocks: Skip this section and complete Application Page 2.

NOTE: Do not sign this form until requested to do so by the authorized agent who will administer the oath to you.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 1 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

SECTION D. ATTACHMENTS TO SUBMIT WITH THIS FORM

Once you have completed Application Pages 1 and 2, attach the supporting documents as outlined in this section.

1.PROOF OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP Information can be found on travel.state.gov/citizenship.

Applicants Born in the United States

Applicants Born Outside the United States

Your evidence will be returned to you if it is not damaged, altered,

If we determine that you are a U.S. citizen, your lawful permanent

or forged. Submit an original or certified copy and a photocopy of

resident card submitted with this application will be forwarded to

the front and back if there is printed information on the back, of

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

one of the following documents:

Claiming Citizenship through Naturalization of One or Both

 

U.S. Birth Certificate that meets all the following requirements:

Parent(s), submit all the following:

o Issued by the city, county, or state of birth

o Your parent(s) Certificate(s) of Naturalization

o Lists your full name, date of birth, and birthplace

o Your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evidence that you

o Lists your parent(s)' full names

were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen

o Lists date filed with registrar's office (must be within one

parent, if applicable

year of birth)

o Your foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

o Shows registrar's signature and the seal of the issuing

document is not in English)

authority

o Your evidence of admission to the United States for legal

o Lists your biological sex at birth

permanent residence and proof you subsequently resided

Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)

in the United States

Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Abroad

Claiming Citizenship through Birth Abroad to At Least One U.S.

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

 

Citizen Parent, submit all the following:

• Secondary documents may be submitted if the U.S. birth

o Your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240),

certificate was filed more than one year after your birth or if no

Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545), or your

birth record exists. For no birth record on file, submit a

foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

registrar's letter to that effect. For both scenarios, submit a

document is not in English)

combination of the evidence listed below, with your first and last

o Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship

name, birthdate and/or birthplace, the seal or other certification

o Your parents' marriage certificate

of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing

o Affidavit showing all your U.S. citizen parents' periods and

official.

places of residence and physical presence before your

o A hospital birth record

birth (DS-5507)

o An early baptismal or circumcision certificate

Claiming Citizenship Through Adoption by a U.S. Citizen

o Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records

o Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as

Parent(s), if your birthdate is on or after October 5, 1978,

a newspaper article)

submit evidence of all the following:

o Notarized affidavits (or DS-10, Birth Affidavit) of older blood

o Your permanent residence status

relatives having knowledge of your birth may be submitted

o Your full and final adoption

in addition to some of the records listed above.

o You were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S.

 

citizen parent(s)

 

o You have resided in the United States

2.PROOF OF IDENTITY Information can be found at travel.state.gov/identification.

Present your original identification and submit a front and back photocopy with this form. It must show a photograph that is a good likeness of you. Examples include:

Driver's license (not temporary or learner's permit)

Federal, state, or city government employee identification

Previous or current U.S. passport book/card

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Military identification

3.A RECENT COLOR PHOTOGRAPH See the full list of photo requirements on travel.state.gov/photos.

Attach one photo, 2x2 inches in size. U.S. passport photo requirements may differ from photo requirements of other countries. To avoid processing delays, be sure your photo meets all the following requirements (Refer to the photo template on Application Page 1):

Taken less than six months ago

• No eyeglasses and head covering and no uniforms*

Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the

Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper

 

chin to the top of the head

Use a plain white or off-white background

Head must face the camera directly with full face in view

*Head coverings are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement verifying that it is part of recognized, traditional religious attire that is customarily or required to be worn continuously in public or a signed doctor's statement verifying its daily use for medical purposes. Glasses or other eyewear are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement from a doctor explaining why you cannot remove them (e.g., during the recovery period from eye surgery). Photos are to be taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis. You cannot wear a uniform, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 2 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

4.PROOF OF PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP (FOR APPLICANTS UNDER AGE 16)

Parents/guardians must appear in person with the child and submit the following:

Evidence of the child's relationship to parents/guardian(s) (Example: a birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad listing the names of the parent(s)/guardian(s) and child)

Original parental/guardian government-issued photo identification and a photocopy of the front and back (to satisfy proof of identity)

If only one parent/guardian can appear in person with the child, you must also submit one of the following:

The second parent's notarized written statement or DS-3053 (including the child's full name and date of birth) consenting to the passport issuance for the child. The notarized statement cannot be more than three months old, must be signed and notarized on the same day, and must come with a front and back photocopy of the second parent's government-issued photo identification.

The second parent’s death certificate (if second parent is deceased)

Evidence of sole authority to apply (Example: a court order granting sole legal custody or a birth certificate listing only one parent)

A written statement (made under penalty of perjury) or DS-5525 explaining, in detail, why the second parent cannot be reached

OR

PROOF OF PARENTAL AWARENESS (FOR APPLICANTS AGES 16 AND 17)

We may request the consent of one legal parent/legal guardian to issue a U.S. passport to you. In many cases, the passport authorizing officer may be able to ascertain parental awareness of the application by virtue of the parent’s presence when the minor submits the application or a signed note from the parent or proof the parent is paying the application fees. However, the passport authorizing officer retains discretion to request the legal parent’s/legal guardian’s notarized statement of consent to issuance (e.g., on Form DS-3053).

5. FEES Passport service fees are established by law and regulation (see 22 U.S.C. 214, 22 C.F.R. 22.1, and 22 C.F.R. 51.50-56) and are collected at the time you apply for the passport service. By law, the passport fees are non-refundable. Visit travel.state.gov/passportfees for current fees, payment methods, and how fees are used and processed. Additional fee information is as follows:

The execution fee must be paid separately and made payable to the acceptance facility in the payment method they accept.

If applying outside the United States: Please see the website of your embassy, consulate, or consular agency for acceptable payment methods.

Other Services Requiring Additional Fee (Visit travel.state.gov for more details):

Expedite Service: Only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.

1-2 Day Delivery: Only available for passport book (and not passport card) mailings in the United States.

Verification of a previous U.S. Passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad: Upon your request, we verify previously issued

U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad if you are unable to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship.

Special Issuance Passports: If you apply for a no-fee regular, service, official, or diplomatic passport at a designated acceptance facility, you must pay the execution fee. No other fees are charged when you apply.

SECTION E. HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM

Submitting your form depends on your location and how soon you need your passport.

Applicant Located Inside the United States: For the latest information regarding processing times, scheduling appointments, and nearest designated acceptance facilities visit travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.

Applicant Located Outside the United States: In most countries, you must apply in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate for all passport services. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different procedures for submitting and processing your application. Visit travel.state.gov to check the U.S. embassy or consulate webpage for more information.

SECTION F. RECEIVING YOUR PASSPORT AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Difference Between U.S. Passport Book and Card: The book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. The card is not valid for international air travel, only for entry at land border crossings and seaports of entry when traveling from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The maximum number of letters provided for your given name (first and middle) on the card is 24 characters. If both your given names are more than 24 characters, you must shorten one of your given names you list on item #1 of Application Page 1.

Separate mailings: You may receive your newly issued U.S. passport book and/or card and your citizenship evidence in two separate

mailings. If you are applying for both a book and card, you may receive three separate mailings: one with your returned evidence, one with your newly issued book, and one with your newly issued card. All documentary evidence that is not damaged, altered, or forged will be returned to you. Photocopies will not be returned.

Passport numbers: Each newly issued passport book or card will have a different passport number than your previous one.

Shipping and Delivery Changes: If your mailing address changes prior to receipt of your new passport, please contact NPIC. NOTE: We will not mail a U.S. passport to a private address outside the United States or Canada.

Passport Corrections, Non-Receipt/Undeliverable Passports, and Lost/Stolen Passport: For more information visit travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 3 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

WARNING

False statements made knowingly and willfully in passport applications, including affidavits or other documents submitted to support this application, are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under U.S. law including the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1542, and/or 18 U.S.C. 1621. Alteration or mutilation of a passport issued pursuant to this application is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. The use of a passport in violation of the restrictions contained herein or of passport regulations is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1544. All statements and documents are subject to verification.

Failure to provide information requested on this form, including your Social Security number, may result in significant

processing delays and/or the denial of your application.

ACTS OR CONDITIONS

The applicant agrees with the following statement:

I am not currently required to register under the sex offender registration program of any jurisdiction for a sex offense against a minor. I have not been convicted of a federal or state drug offense or convicted of a statutory "sex tourism" crime, and I am not the subject of an outstanding federal, state, or local warrant of arrest for a felony; a criminal court order forbidding my departure from the United States; or a subpoena received from the United States in a matter involving federal prosecution for, or grand jury investigation of, a felony.

If any of the above-mentioned acts or conditions have been performed by or apply to the applicant, a supplementary explanatory statement under oath (or affirmation) by the applicant is required to be attached and made part of this application.

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

AUTHORITIES: Collection of this information is authorized by 22 U.S.C. 211 a et seq.; 8 U.S.C. 1104; 26 U.S.C. 6039E, 22 U.S.C. 2714a(f), Section 236 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001; Executive Order 11295 (August 5, 1966); and 22 C.F.R. parts 50 and 51.

PURPOSE: We are requesting this information in order to determine your eligibility to be issued a U.S. passport. Your Social Security number is used to verify your identity.

ROUTINE USES: This information may be disclosed to another domestic government agency, a private contractor, a foreign government agency, or to a private person or private employer in accordance with certain approved routine uses. These routine uses include, but are not limited to, law enforcement activities, employment verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation activities, and activities that meet the Secretary of State's responsibility to protect U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals abroad. Your Social Security number will be provided to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collection, among other purposes authorized and generally described in this section. More information on the routine uses for the system can be found in System of Records Notices State-05, Overseas Citizen Services Records and Other Overseas Records and State-26, Passport Records.

DISCLOSURE: Providing information on this form is voluntary. Be advised, however, that failure to provide the information requested on this form may cause delays in processing your U.S. passport application and/or could also result in the refusal or denial of your application. Failure to provide your Social Security number may result in the denial of your application (consistent with 22 U.S.C. 2714a(f)) and may subject you to penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service, as described in the Federal Tax Law on Instruction Page 1 (Section C) to this form.

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 85 minutes per response, including the time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary data, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: Passport Forms Officer, U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support, 44132 Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1199.

For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and

processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 4 of 4

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

U.S. Passport Book

 

U.S. Passport Card

 

Both

 

 

 

 

The U.S. Passport Card is not valid for international air travel. See Instruction Page 3

 

 

 

Regular Book (Standard)

 

 

 

Large Book (Non-Standard)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The large book is for frequent international travelers who need more visa pages

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

Place of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Security Number

USCIS Registration A-Number (if applicable)

Email (see application status at passportstatus.state.gov)

A-

Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB. Also include Apartment, Suite, etc

(If applicant is a child, write "In Care Of" the parent) Example: In Care Of - Jane Doe

City

State

Zip Code

Country (if outside the United States)

9.

List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change). If needed, attach additional pages.

A.

 

 

B.

Staple

Staple

Staple

Attach a color photograph of applicant taken within the last six months

Staple

DS-11 04-2025

Application Page 1 of 2

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cell

(MM/DD/YYYY) (MM/DD/YYYY)

Name printed on your most recent book

 

Status of Book

Name printed on your most recent card

 

 

Status of Card

 

Submitting with application

 

Submitting with application

 

 

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your most recent passport book/card was lost or stolen, you must explain in detail below. Please provide your previous book/card number and include the date and location (address/city/state/ country) of the loss/theft, if known. Please indicate whether you filed a police report, and if it is available, please submit a copy. If you need more space, continue on a separate sheet of paper.

DS-11 04-2025

Clear Form

Application Page 2 of 2

Document Data

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DS-11 form is used to apply for a U.S. passport for individuals who are applying for the first time, or for those who do not meet specific renewal criteria.
Eligibility Applicants must be U.S. citizens or non-citizen nationals and must provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
Submission Method The completed DS-11 form must be submitted in person at designated acceptance facilities or passport agencies, along with required documentation and fees.
Processing Time Standard processing typically takes 8 to 11 weeks, but expedited services are available for an additional fee, reducing the time to approximately 5 to 7 weeks.
Governing Laws The application process is governed by Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically 22 CFR Part 51, which outlines the rules for passport issuance.

How to Use DS-11 U.S. Passport application

Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is an important step in obtaining a passport. After completing the form, you will need to submit it in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Be prepared to provide additional documents and payment as required.

  1. Obtain a blank DS-11 application form. You can download it from the U.S. State Department's website or pick up a copy at a local acceptance facility.
  2. Start by filling out your personal information. Include your full name, date of birth, and place of birth. Make sure to write clearly and legibly.
  3. Provide your current address. Include the street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
  4. Indicate your phone number and email address. This information helps in case there are questions regarding your application.
  5. Complete the section regarding your parents' information. Include their names, dates of birth, and places of birth.
  6. Choose the type of passport you are applying for. Indicate whether it is for a passport book, passport card, or both.
  7. Answer the questions about your eligibility. These questions help determine if you meet the requirements for a U.S. passport.
  8. Sign and date the application at the bottom of the form. Your signature must match the name you provided earlier.
  9. Gather the necessary supporting documents. This may include proof of citizenship, identification, and a passport photo that meets specific requirements.
  10. Prepare your payment. Check the current fees for passport applications and include payment as directed.

Once you have completed the form and gathered all necessary documents, you can submit your application at an authorized acceptance facility. Make sure to check the facility's hours and any additional requirements they may have.

Key Facts about DS-11 U.S. Passport application

What is the DS-11 form used for?

The DS-11 form is used to apply for a U.S. passport for the first time. It is also used for individuals who are minors or those who cannot renew their passport by mail. This form ensures that applicants provide all necessary information for the issuance of a passport.

Who needs to fill out the DS-11 form?

Anyone who is applying for a U.S. passport for the first time must complete the DS-11 form. This includes children under 16, adults who have never had a passport, and individuals whose previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged. If you are eligible for renewal by mail, you will need to use a different form.

Where can I obtain the DS-11 form?

The DS-11 form can be obtained online from the U.S. State Department's website. It is also available at passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices and libraries. You can print the form from the website or pick up a hard copy at one of these locations.

What documents do I need to submit with the DS-11 form?

You will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Additionally, you must include a government-issued photo ID, a passport photo that meets specific requirements, and payment for the application fee. Make sure to check the current requirements as they can change.

How do I submit the DS-11 form?

The DS-11 form must be submitted in person. You can do this at a passport acceptance facility or a passport agency, depending on your urgency. Be sure to bring all required documents and payment. If you are applying for a child, both parents or guardians must be present to sign the application.

How long does it take to process the DS-11 application?

Processing times can vary. Typically, routine processing takes about 10 to 12 weeks, while expedited processing can take around 5 to 7 weeks. However, these times can fluctuate based on demand and other factors. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of any planned travel.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or even rejection of their application. One frequent error is not using black ink. The form must be filled out in black ink only, as other colors may not be processed correctly.

Another mistake is forgetting to sign the application. The signature is a crucial part of the application, and failing to provide it can result in the application being returned. Additionally, some applicants overlook the requirement to provide a recent passport photo. The photo must meet specific guidelines, including size and background color, so be sure to check those details before submitting.

Many people also make the mistake of not providing all necessary documentation. When applying for a passport, you need to include proof of citizenship and identification. Failing to include these documents can lead to significant delays in processing your application.

Some applicants mistakenly think they can submit the application online. The DS-11 form is specifically for first-time applicants or those who do not meet certain criteria, and it must be submitted in person. This misunderstanding can lead to frustration and wasted time.

Another common error involves providing incorrect or incomplete information. Double-check your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and address. Even a small typo can cause complications in the processing of your passport.

People often underestimate the importance of checking the application for accuracy before submission. It's wise to review the entire form to ensure everything is correct and complete. This small step can save a lot of time and hassle later on.

Some applicants fail to pay the required fees correctly. Ensure you know the current fee structure and the acceptable payment methods. An incorrect payment can delay the processing of your application.

Additionally, many individuals do not keep a copy of their completed application. Having a copy can be helpful for tracking your application status or in case any issues arise during processing.

Lastly, some applicants forget to check the mailing address for sending the application. Different processing centers handle passport applications, and sending your application to the wrong address can result in delays.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can help ensure a smoother application process for your U.S. passport. Take your time, review your application carefully, and gather all necessary documents to avoid unnecessary complications.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 form, there are several other documents that you may need to submit to ensure your application is complete. These documents help verify your identity and citizenship, making the process smoother and more efficient.

  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This can include a birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a previous passport. It establishes your citizenship status.
  • Proof of Identity: A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or military ID, is required to confirm your identity.
  • Passport Photo: You need to provide a recent passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements, such as size and background color.
  • Payment: A check or money order for the application fee must be included. Make sure it’s made out to the "U.S. Department of State."
  • Parental Consent (if applicable): For applicants under 16, a notarized consent form from both parents or guardians is necessary.
  • Application for a Passport Card (optional): If you want a passport card in addition to your passport book, you can include this request with your application.

Gathering these documents ahead of time can help streamline your passport application process. Make sure to check the latest requirements, as they can change. Good luck with your application!

Similar forms

  • Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: This form is used to establish a relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative. Like the DS-11, it requires personal information and documentation to support the application.
  • Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: Individuals seeking U.S. citizenship must complete this form. Similar to the DS-11, it collects personal data and requires proof of eligibility.
  • Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This form is for individuals applying to adjust their immigration status. It shares similarities with the DS-11 in terms of required personal information and supporting documents.
  • Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: Used for obtaining an immigrant visa, this form is akin to the DS-11 as both require detailed personal information and documentation to verify identity.
  • Form DS-5504, Application for a U.S. Passport: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Replacement: This form is used for name changes or corrections on existing passports. Like the DS-11, it requires personal information and supporting documentation.
  • Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: This form is for individuals needing to renew or replace their green card. It parallels the DS-11 in its need for personal data and identity verification.
  • Form DS-82, Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail: This form is used for renewing a passport by mail. Similar to the DS-11, it requires personal information but is specifically for applicants who already have a passport.
  • Form I-864, Affidavit of Support: This form is used by sponsors of immigrants to demonstrate financial support. Like the DS-11, it requires detailed personal and financial information to ensure eligibility.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are four important things to keep in mind:

  • Do: Provide accurate information.
  • Do: Use black ink and write clearly.
  • Don't: Leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't: Forget to sign and date the application.

Taking these steps will help facilitate a successful application process. Remember, attention to detail is crucial when submitting important documents like a passport application.

Misconceptions

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is essential for obtaining a passport, but several misconceptions surround it. Understanding these misconceptions can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly.

  • Misconception 1: You can apply for a passport renewal using the DS-11 form.
  • This is incorrect. The DS-11 form is specifically for first-time applicants, individuals who are minors, or those who do not meet the renewal criteria. For renewals, applicants should use the DS-82 form.

  • Misconception 2: You must submit your application in person at a passport office.
  • While many applicants do need to apply in person, there are exceptions. For example, individuals renewing their passports may be eligible to apply by mail, provided they meet certain criteria.

  • Misconception 3: You need to provide a birth certificate for all applications.
  • This is not entirely true. While a birth certificate is typically required for first-time applicants, other forms of identification may be accepted depending on the applicant's situation. It's important to check the specific requirements before applying.

  • Misconception 4: The DS-11 form can be filled out online.
  • The DS-11 form must be completed on paper and submitted in person. However, applicants can fill out the form online for convenience, but they must print it out and sign it before submission.

Key takeaways

When applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 form, it’s essential to understand the process and requirements. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Eligibility: The DS-11 form is for first-time applicants, minors, and individuals who do not meet the criteria for renewal. Make sure you fit one of these categories before proceeding.
  • Complete in Person: You must submit the DS-11 application in person at an authorized acceptance facility or passport agency. This ensures your identity is verified and your documents are properly handled.
  • Required Documents: Gather necessary documents such as proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a recent passport photo. Having everything ready will streamline your application process.
  • Payment: Be prepared to pay the application fee at the time of submission. Acceptable payment methods vary by location, so check ahead to avoid delays.
  • Processing Time: Passport processing can take several weeks, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan ahead and apply well in advance of any travel plans.
  • Tracking Your Application: After submitting your application, you can track its status online. This feature helps you stay informed about when to expect your passport.