Create a new passport in united state
To create a new passport in the United States, you'll need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine Which Type of Passport You Need
The U.S. Department of State offers several types of passports:
- First-time applicant: You've never had a U.S. passport before.
- Renewal: Your current passport is expired or will expire soon.
- Replacement: Your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Child's passport: You're applying for a passport for a minor (under 16).
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
For a first-time applicant or renewal, you'll need:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship:
- Birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state)
- Naturalization certificate
- Prior U.S. passport
- Proof of identity:
- Driver's license
- Government-issued ID
- Current passport (if renewing)
- Photocopy of both sides of your ID
For a replacement or child's passport, you may need additional documents, such as:
- Police report (if your passport was lost or stolen)
- Proof of parental relationship (if applying for a child's passport)
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
You can download and print the application form (DS-11) from the U.S. Department of State's website or pick one up from a passport acceptance facility.
Fill out the form completely and accurately. Do not sign it until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
Step 4: Get a Passport Photo
You'll need one recent, color photograph that meets the Department of State's requirements. The photo should be 2x2 inches in size, with a white background, and a neutral expression.
Step 5: Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility
There are over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States, including post offices, libraries, and county clerk's offices. Make an appointment if possible.
Take the following with you:
- Completed application (DS-11)
- Supporting documents (proof of citizenship, identity, and photocopy of ID)
- Passport photo
- Payment for the application fee and execution fee (see below)
The acceptance agent will review your application, witness your signature, and send it to the Department of State for processing.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
The application fee for a U.S. passport book is currently $110 for adults (16 and older) and $80 for children (15 and younger). The execution fee for the acceptance agent is $35.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
The acceptance agent will seal your application and supporting documents in an envelope and send it to the Department of State for processing.
Processing Times and Fees
Routine service: 6-8 weeks - $110 (adult) or $80 (child) application fee, plus $35 execution fee Expedited service: 2-3 weeks - $140 (adult) or $115 (child) application fee, plus $35 execution fee Expedited service at a regional passport agency: 1-2 weeks - $140 (adult) or $115 (child) application fee, plus $35 execution fee
Track Your Application
You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the National Passport Information Center.
That's it! Once your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you via first-class mail.