Contents
Applying for a U.S. passport is an essential step for anyone planning to travel internationally, and the DS-11 form is the starting point for this important process. This application form is specifically designed for individuals who are applying for their first passport, those who are under 16 years old, or individuals whose previous passports have been lost, stolen, or damaged. Completing the DS-11 requires careful attention to detail, as applicants must provide personal information such as their full name, date of birth, and social security number. Additionally, the form includes sections for parental consent when minors are involved, ensuring that all necessary permissions are in place. Applicants must also submit a recent passport photo that meets specific requirements, along with proof of U.S. citizenship, which can include a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. It’s important to remember that the DS-11 must be submitted in person at an authorized acceptance facility, and the application process involves a fee that varies depending on the type of service requested. Understanding these components can help streamline the application process and set the stage for a successful journey abroad.
Preview - DS-11 U.S. Passport application Form
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
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
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 th
e oath, witness
you s
igning 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.
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.)
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.
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.
9.
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.
Instruction Page 1 of 4
OMB Control No. 1405-0004
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes
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.
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
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 Outside the United States
Applicants Born in the United States
Your evidence will be returned to you if it is not damaged, altered,
or forged. Submit an original or certified copy
and a photocopy of
the front and back if there is printed information on the back,
of
one of the following doc
uments
:
• U.S. Birth Certificate that meets all the following requirements:
o Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
o Lists your full name, date of birth, and birthplace
o Lists your parent(s)' full names
o Lists date filed with registrar's office (must be within one
year of birth)
o Shows registrar's signature and the seal of the issuing
authority
o Lists your biological sex at birth
• Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Abroad
• Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
• Secondary documents may be submitted if the U.S. birth
certificate was filed more than one year after your birth or if no
birth record exists. For no birth record on file, submit a
registrar's letter to that effect. For both scenarios, submit a
combination of the evidence listed below, with your first and last
name, birthdate and/or birthplace, the seal or other certification
of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing
official.
o A hospital birth record
o An early baptismal or circumcision certificate
o Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records
o Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as
a newspaper article)
o Notarized affidavits (or DS-10, Birth Affidavit) of older blood
relatives having knowledge of your birth may be submitted
in addition to some of the records listed above.
If we determine that you are a U.S. citizen, your lawful permanent
resident card submitted with this application will be forwarded to
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
• Claiming Citizenship through Naturalization of One or Both
Parent(s), submit all the following:
o Your parent(s) Certificate(s) of Naturalization
o Your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evide
nce that you
were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen
parent, if appl
icable
o Your foreign birth certificate (and official transla
tion if the
document is not in English)
o Your evidence of admission to the United State
s for legal
permanent residence and proof you subsequently resided
in the United States
• Claiming Citizenship through Birth Abroad to At Least One U.S.
Citizen Parent, submit all the following:
o Your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240),
Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545), or your
foreign birth certificate
(and official translation if the
document is not in
English)
o Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship
o Your parents' marriage certificate
o Affidavit showing all your U.S. citizen parents' periods
and
places of residence and physical presence before your
birth (DS-5507)
• Claiming Citizenship Through Adoption by a U.S. Citizen
Parent(s), if your birthdate is on or after October 5, 1978,
submit evidence of all the following:
o Your permanent residence status
o Your full and final adoption
o You were in the legal and physical custody of you
r 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)
• Previous or current U.S. passport book/card
• Military identification
• Federal, state, or city government employee identification
• Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
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
• Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the
chin to the top of the head
• Head must face the camera directly with full face in view
• No eyeglasses and head covering and no uniforms*
• Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper
• Use a plain white or off-white background
*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 remov
e 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.
Instruction Page 2 of 4
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
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 relation
ship to parents/guardian(s) (Example: a birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad listing
the
names of the parent(s)/guard
ian(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
passp
ort 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-55
25 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 authorizin
g
officer may be able to ascertain parental awarene
ss of the application by virtue of the parent’s presence when the minor submits the
application or a signed note from the parent or p
roof the parent is paying the application fees. However, the passport authorizing o
fficer
retains discretion to request the legal parent’s/lega
l 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):
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
neares
t designated acceptance facilities visit travel.state.gov or con
tact NPIC.
• Applicant Located Outside the United States: In most countries, you must app
ly in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate for all
passpo
rt services. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different pro
cedures 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.
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.
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.
1-2 Day Delivery: Only available for passport book (and not passport card) mailings in the United States.
Expedite Service: Only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.
•
•
•
•
Instruc
tion Page 3 of 4
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
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 imprisonme
nt under
the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. Th
e 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
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; E
xecutive 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
age
ncy, 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, employmen
t verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation a
ctivities,
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. Departme
nt of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collectio
n, among other
purposes authorized and gen
erally 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 Rec
ords.
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, Pa
ssport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support
, 44132
Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1
199.
For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and
processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.
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.
Instruction Page 4 of 4
DS-11 04-2025
Attach a color photograph of applicant
taken within the last six months
Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.
Staple
Staple
StapleStaple
City
USCIS Registration A-Number (if applicable)
State
Zip Code
Country (if outside the United States)
Email (
(see application status at passportstatus.state.gov)
OMB Control No. 1405-0004
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes
B.
A.
List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change). If needed, attach additional pages.
Email
A-
Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB. Also include Apartment, Suite, etc
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(If applicant is a child, write "In Care Of" the parent) Example: In Care Of - Jane Doe
Sex
9.
Application Page 1 of 2
Social Security Number
Place of Birth
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
DS-11 04-2025
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.
Name printed on your most recent card
Name printed on your most recent book
Status of Book
Submitting with application
Stolen
Lost
In my possession (if expired)
Status of Card
Submitting with application
Stolen Lost
In my possession (if expired)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
Sex
Sex
Application Page 2 of 2
Cell
Clear Form
Document Specifics
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The DS-11 form is used to apply for a U.S. passport for individuals who are first-time applicants, minors, or those who do not meet specific renewal criteria. |
| Eligibility | Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen national can apply using the DS-11 form, provided they meet the application requirements. |
| Where to Apply | Applicants must submit the DS-11 form in person at designated passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices or public libraries. |
| Required Documents | Applicants must provide proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo that meets specific requirements. |
| Filing Fee | A standard application fee is required when submitting the DS-11 form. This fee varies depending on the type of passport requested. |
| Processing Time | Routine processing typically takes 10-12 weeks, while expedited processing is available for an additional fee and takes 5-7 weeks. |
| Minors | For applicants under age 16, both parents or guardians must be present during the application process, and additional documentation is required. |
| Lost or Stolen Passports | If a passport is lost or stolen, applicants must submit a DS-11 form and provide additional documentation to report the loss. |
| State-Specific Forms | Some states may have additional requirements for passport applications. Check state-specific laws for details. |
| Renewal Restrictions | The DS-11 form cannot be used for passport renewals. Applicants must use the DS-82 form if they are eligible for renewal. |
DS-11 U.S. Passport application: Usage Instruction
After obtaining the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, individuals will need to complete it accurately to ensure a smooth application process. The following steps outline how to fill out the form effectively.
- Begin by downloading the DS-11 form from the official U.S. State Department website or obtain a physical copy from a passport acceptance facility.
- Read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
- Provide your personal information in Section 1, including your name, date of birth, and place of birth.
- In Section 2, indicate your gender and provide your Social Security number. If you do not have one, check the appropriate box.
- Complete Section 3 with your current address, including city, state, and zip code.
- Fill out Section 4 with your phone number and email address, if applicable.
- In Section 5, provide your parents' names, including their dates of birth and places of birth.
- Section 6 requires information about your previous passports, if any. Indicate if you have ever applied for one and provide details if applicable.
- In Section 7, select the type of passport you are applying for (book, card, or both).
- Sign and date the application in Section 8. Ensure that your signature matches the name provided in Section 1.
- Gather the required documents, including proof of citizenship, identification, and a recent passport photo.
- Submit the completed form and supporting documents at a passport acceptance facility or by mail, depending on your preference and circumstances.
Learn More on DS-11 U.S. Passport application
What is the DS-11 form used for?
The DS-11 form is the application used to apply for a U.S. passport. It is specifically designed for individuals who are applying for their first passport, children under 16, or individuals whose previous passport was issued when they were under age 16. This form must be completed and submitted in person.
How do I fill out the DS-11 form?
To fill out the DS-11 form, follow these steps:
- Obtain the form online or at a passport acceptance facility.
- Provide personal information, including your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
- Indicate your place of birth and the names of your parents.
- Complete the section regarding your passport photo, ensuring it meets the required specifications.
- Sign and date the application.
Make sure to review your information for accuracy before submission.
Where can I submit my DS-11 application?
You must submit the DS-11 application in person. This can be done at various locations, including:
- Passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices and libraries.
- Regional passport agencies, if you need expedited service.
- Some government offices and public libraries.
Check the U.S. State Department's website for a list of locations near you.
What documents do I need to submit with the DS-11 form?
When submitting the DS-11 form, you must provide several supporting documents, including:
- A proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate).
- A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, military ID).
- A passport photo that meets specific requirements.
- Payment for the application fee, typically by check or money order.
Ensure that all documents are original or certified copies, as photocopies are not accepted.
How long does it take to receive my passport after submitting the DS-11 form?
The processing time for a passport can vary. Generally, it takes:
- 10 to 12 weeks for routine processing.
- 5 to 7 weeks for expedited processing, which requires an additional fee.
For urgent travel needs, you may be able to schedule an appointment at a passport agency for faster service.
Can I track the status of my passport application?
Yes, you can track the status of your passport application online. After applying, wait at least 7 to 10 days before checking. You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the tracking tool.
Common mistakes
Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form can seem straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can delay the processing of their application. One frequent error is not providing accurate personal information. This includes misspelling names or providing incorrect dates of birth. Such inaccuracies can lead to confusion and may require additional steps to correct, prolonging the application process.
Another common mistake is failing to include all required documents. The DS-11 form asks for specific identification and proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a previous passport. Omitting any of these documents can result in a rejection of the application. Always double-check the list of required documents before submitting your application to ensure everything is included.
Many applicants also overlook the importance of using the correct format for their photographs. The passport photo must meet specific guidelines regarding size, background color, and facial expression. Submitting a photo that does not adhere to these standards can lead to delays, as the application may be put on hold until a proper photo is provided.
Additionally, some people fail to sign the application form. It may seem like a minor detail, but an unsigned application is considered incomplete. This simple oversight can lead to significant delays in processing your passport. Always remember to sign and date the application before submission.
Lastly, applicants often underestimate the importance of checking the application for completeness. Rushing through the form can lead to missing information or errors. Taking the time to review your application thoroughly can save you from potential headaches down the line. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure a smoother application process and receive your passport in a timely manner.
Documents used along the form
When applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 form, several additional documents may be required to support your application. These documents help verify your identity, citizenship, and other relevant details. Below is a list of commonly needed forms and documents that accompany the DS-11 application.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This can include a certified birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, or a naturalization certificate. This document establishes your citizenship status.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: A current driver's license, military ID, or any other government-issued identification that includes your photo is necessary for identity verification.
- Passport Photo: A recent, passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements must be submitted. The photo should be 2x2 inches and taken within the last six months.
- Parental Consent (for minors): If the applicant is under 16, a notarized consent form signed by both parents or legal guardians is required. This document ensures that both parties agree to the passport application.
- Payment for Fees: A check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State" is needed to cover the application fee. Ensure that the amount corresponds to the current fee schedule.
- Additional Documentation (if applicable): If you have changed your name, you may need to provide legal documents such as a marriage certificate or court order to verify the name change.
Gathering these documents ahead of time can streamline the application process and help avoid delays. Always check the latest guidelines from the U.S. Department of State to ensure you have the most current information and requirements.
Similar forms
The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is similar to the Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Both documents require personal information, including your name, address, and date of birth. They also ask for identification and supporting documents to verify your identity. Just as the DS-11 is used for obtaining a passport, the Form I-90 is essential for individuals seeking to renew or replace their green card. Both forms aim to establish identity and eligibility for the respective benefits they provide.
Another document that resembles the DS-11 is the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Like the DS-11, the N-400 collects detailed personal information and requires proof of identity. Applicants must demonstrate their eligibility for citizenship, similar to how passport applicants must prove their identity and citizenship status. Both forms are critical in verifying an individual's legal status and facilitating access to important rights and privileges.
The DS-11 also shares similarities with the Form DS-82, Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. While the DS-11 is used for first-time applicants or those who do not qualify for renewal, the DS-82 is for individuals who are renewing an existing passport. Both forms require personal details and supporting documentation, but the DS-82 can be submitted by mail, making it more convenient for eligible applicants. Each form serves a specific purpose in the passport application process.
The Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, is another document that parallels the DS-11. Both require applicants to provide personal information and proof of identity. The SS-5 is used to obtain a Social Security number, which is essential for various financial and legal activities in the U.S. Just as the DS-11 is necessary for international travel, the SS-5 is crucial for accessing social security benefits and employment opportunities.
Lastly, the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is similar to the DS-11 in that both forms are used to request specific benefits from the government. The I-765 requires personal information and documentation to establish eligibility for work authorization in the U.S. Just like the DS-11, it is an essential part of the process for individuals seeking to obtain a legal status that allows them to travel or work. Each form plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals can access their rights and privileges within the country.
Dos and Don'ts
Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Here’s a straightforward list of things you should and shouldn't do to make the process smoother.
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Do use black ink and write clearly to ensure legibility.
- Do provide accurate information; double-check your details.
- Do sign the application in the designated area.
- Don't forget to include a recent passport photo that meets the requirements.
- Don't leave any sections blank; if something doesn’t apply, write “N/A.”
- Don't use correction fluid or tape on the form.
- Don't submit your application without the necessary payment and supporting documents.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your application process goes as smoothly as possible. Good luck with your passport application!
Misconceptions
The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is essential for individuals applying for their first passport or for those who do not meet specific criteria for renewal. Despite its importance, several misconceptions surround this application process. Below are nine common misconceptions along with clarifications.
- Only adults can apply using the DS-11 form. Many believe that the DS-11 is exclusively for adults. However, minors can also use this form when applying for their first passport.
- You can apply for a passport online using the DS-11. Some applicants think they can fill out the DS-11 online. The form must be printed and submitted in person, especially for first-time applicants.
- The DS-11 form is only for U.S. citizens. While the form is primarily for U.S. citizens, certain non-citizens may also use it under specific circumstances, such as those with a claim to citizenship.
- Passport photos can be taken anywhere. Many people assume that any photo will suffice. However, passport photos must meet strict requirements regarding size, background, and quality.
- You need to have a birth certificate to apply. Some believe that a birth certificate is the only acceptable document for proof of citizenship. Other documents, such as a naturalization certificate or a consular report of birth abroad, are also valid.
- The application fee is the same for everyone. There is a misconception that all applicants pay the same fee. In reality, fees can vary based on factors such as age and the type of service requested.
- Once submitted, the application cannot be changed. Applicants often think they cannot make changes after submission. However, if an error is noticed, it may be possible to correct it before processing is complete.
- Expedited service is automatically granted. Some applicants mistakenly believe that all applications are processed quickly. Expedited service is available but must be requested and often comes with an additional fee.
- Receiving your passport is always a lengthy process. While many expect long wait times, the processing duration can vary. Some applications are processed faster than anticipated, especially if submitted during off-peak times.
Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the passport application process more effectively. Being informed allows for a smoother experience when applying for a U.S. passport.
Key takeaways
Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form can seem daunting, but understanding the key points can simplify the process. Here are some important takeaways to keep in mind:
- The DS-11 form is for first-time applicants, minors, and individuals who do not meet the eligibility requirements for renewal.
- Complete the form in black ink, using capital letters for clarity.
- Provide accurate personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and social security number.
- Include a recent passport photo that meets the official requirements, such as size and background color.
- Both parents or guardians must consent for applicants under 16, and they should be present during the application process.
- There is a fee associated with applying for a passport, which can vary based on the type of service requested.
- Submit the completed form in person at an authorized acceptance facility or passport agency.
- Track the status of your application online after submitting it, which can take several weeks to process.
- Be aware of additional requirements if you are applying from outside the U.S.
- If you make a mistake on the form, it is best to start over with a new application rather than trying to correct it.
By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the application process more smoothly and ensure that your passport application is completed correctly.