How To Apply for a New U.S. Passport

To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States.

Bring 2 photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver's license.

You must also fill out Form DS-11 and bring it with you.

Acceptance facilities include many Federal, state and probate courts, post offices, some public libraries and a number of county and municipal offices.

There are also regional passport agencies, most of which serve only those who are departing urgently. Appointments are required in such cases.

Processing time normally takes several weeks. If you need a passport in a hurry, it will cost an extra $60 and the cost of two overnight deliveries, well worth it if your trip departure is looming.

For more information, click on Applying for a New U.S. Passport

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