How to Fill Out a US Passport Application Form (DS-11) Guide-2025

Applying for a passport for the first time in the United States?
You’ll need to fill out Form DS-11, the official application for a new U.S. passport. This guide walks you through each section, step-by-step — no jargon, no confusion.

Whether you’re applying for yourself or helping a family member, here’s everything you need to know to get it done smoothly.

✅ Who Should Use Form DS-11?

Use this form if:

• You’re applying for a passport for the first time
• You’re under age 16
• Your last passport was issued over 15 years ago
• Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged

📥 Where to Get the DS-11 Form

• Download directly from the U.S. State Department:
  👉 travel.state.gov
• Or use the Form Filler Tool to complete it online and print.

🧠 Never sign the form until you’re in front of an authorized passport agent!

✍️ How to Fill Out the DS-11 Form (Field-by-Field)

🔹 Section 1: Personal Information

• Full Name
• Date & Place of Birth
• Gender
• Social Security Number (mandatory)

🔹 Section 2: Contact Details

• Mailing Address
• Phone Number
• Email Address (optional but helpful)

🔹 Section 3: Parental Details

• Mother/Father names + birth details

Required even if deceased or you’re applying as an adult

🔹 Section 4: Travel Plans (Optional)

• Intended departure date and countries

You can leave this blank if you have no plans yet

🔹 Section 5: Emergency Contact

• Someone in the U.S. who can be contacted if needed

🔹 Section 6: Passport Book or Card

• Choose: Book, Card, or Both

Book is required for international air travel

📸 What Documents to Submit with DS-11

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
   • Birth Certificate, Naturalization Certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad
2. Valid Photo ID
   • Driver’s license, Military ID, etc.
3. Passport Photo
   • 2×2 inches, taken within last 6 months, white background
4. Photocopies
   • 1 copy of front/back of citizenship and ID documents

🏢 Where to Submit the DS-11

You must apply in person at a:

• Post Office (with passport acceptance service)
• County Clerk’s Office
• U.S. Embassy (if abroad)

📍 Find locations here: iafdb.travel.state.gov

💰 Fees for 2025

Type	Amount
Adult Passport Book	$130
Child Passport Book	$100
Execution Fee	$35
Expedited Service (optional)	$60

Pay with check or money order. No cash or card accepted at most offices.

⏳ Processing Time

Type	Time
Routine	8–11 weeks
Expedited	5–7 weeks (with extra fee)

📌 Final Checklist Before Submission

✅ DS-11 Form (unsigned)
✅ Proof of citizenship
✅ Valid ID + copy
✅ One passport photo
✅ Payment
✅ Appointment (if needed)

💡 Tips for a Smooth Application

• Don’t sign until asked at your appointment
• Double-check birth certificate has a raised seal
• Get your photo taken at a USPS or pharmacy to ensure it’s valid
• Book early if you plan to travel soon — backlogs can delay delivery

🧩 Summary

Filling out the DS-11 doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing your documents and using the form filler, you can make the process fast and accurate. Remember: no signing in advance — and follow all checklist items before your appointment.