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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
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship
- Birth Certificate, Naturalization Certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- Valid Photo ID
- Driver’s license, Military ID, etc.
- Passport Photo
- 2×2 inches, taken within last 6 months, white background
- 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.
