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Applying for a U.S. passport can seem daunting, but understanding the DS-11 application form can simplify the process significantly. This form is specifically designed for individuals who are applying for their first passport, as well as those who are under 16 years of age or have lost their previous passport. Key components of the DS-11 include personal information such as your name, date of birth, and social security number, as well as details about your parents or guardians. Additionally, you will need to provide a recent passport photo that meets specific requirements and submit proof of U.S. citizenship, like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. It's also important to know that the application must be submitted in person at an authorized acceptance facility or a passport agency, which adds another layer to the process. Understanding these elements can help you prepare effectively and ensure a smoother application experience.

DS-11 U.S. Passport application Example

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

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

1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793) or [email protected].

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 the oath, witness you signing 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.

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.

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 .

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.

9.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.)

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.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 1 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

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 in the United States

Applicants Born Outside the United States

Your evidence will be returned to you if it is not damaged, altered,

If we determine that you are a U.S. citizen, your lawful permanent

or forged. Submit an original or certified copy and a photocopy of

resident card submitted with this application will be forwarded to

the front and back if there is printed information on the back, of

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

one of the following documents:

Claiming Citizenship through Naturalization of One or Both

 

U.S. Birth Certificate that meets all the following requirements:

Parent(s), submit all the following:

o Issued by the city, county, or state of birth

o Your parent(s) Certificate(s) of Naturalization

o Lists your full name, date of birth, and birthplace

o Your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evidence that you

o Lists your parent(s)' full names

were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen

o Lists date filed with registrar's office (must be within one

parent, if applicable

year of birth)

o Your foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

o Shows registrar's signature and the seal of the issuing

document is not in English)

authority

o Your evidence of admission to the United States for legal

o Lists your biological sex at birth

permanent residence and proof you subsequently resided

Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)

in the United States

Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Abroad

Claiming Citizenship through Birth Abroad to At Least One U.S.

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

 

Citizen Parent, submit all the following:

• Secondary documents may be submitted if the U.S. birth

o Your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240),

certificate was filed more than one year after your birth or if no

Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545), or your

birth record exists. For no birth record on file, submit a

foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

registrar's letter to that effect. For both scenarios, submit a

document is not in English)

combination of the evidence listed below, with your first and last

o Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship

name, birthdate and/or birthplace, the seal or other certification

o Your parents' marriage certificate

of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing

o Affidavit showing all your U.S. citizen parents' periods and

official.

places of residence and physical presence before your

o A hospital birth record

birth (DS-5507)

o An early baptismal or circumcision certificate

Claiming Citizenship Through Adoption by a U.S. Citizen

o Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records

o Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as

Parent(s), if your birthdate is on or after October 5, 1978,

a newspaper article)

submit evidence of all the following:

o Notarized affidavits (or DS-10, Birth Affidavit) of older blood

o Your permanent residence status

relatives having knowledge of your birth may be submitted

o Your full and final adoption

in addition to some of the records listed above.

o You were in the legal and physical custody of your 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)

Federal, state, or city government employee identification

Previous or current U.S. passport book/card

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Military identification

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

• No eyeglasses and head covering and no uniforms*

Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the

Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper

 

chin to the top of the head

Use a plain white or off-white background

Head must face the camera directly with full face in view

*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 remove 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.

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Instruction Page 2 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

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 relationship to parents/guardian(s) (Example: a birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad listing the names of the parent(s)/guardian(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 passport 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-5525 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 authorizing officer may be able to ascertain parental awareness of the application by virtue of the parent’s presence when the minor submits the application or a signed note from the parent or proof the parent is paying the application fees. However, the passport authorizing officer retains discretion to request the legal parent’s/legal 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):

Expedite Service: Only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.

1-2 Day Delivery: Only available for passport book (and not passport card) mailings in the United States.

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.

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.

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 nearest designated acceptance facilities visit travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.

Applicant Located Outside the United States: In most countries, you must apply in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate for all passport services. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different procedures 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.

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Instruction Page 3 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

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 imprisonment under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. The 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

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.

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; Executive 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 agency, 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, employment verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation activities, 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. Department of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collection, among other purposes authorized and generally 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 Records.

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, Passport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support, 44132 Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1199.

For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and

processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.

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Instruction Page 4 of 4

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

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

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

Place of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Security Number

USCIS Registration A-Number (if applicable)

Email (see application status at passportstatus.state.gov)

A-

Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB. Also include Apartment, Suite, etc

(If applicant is a child, write "In Care Of" the parent) Example: In Care Of - Jane Doe

City

State

Zip Code

Country (if outside the United States)

9.

List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change). If needed, attach additional pages.

A.

 

 

B.

Staple

Staple

Staple

Attach a color photograph of applicant taken within the last six months

Staple

DS-11 04-2025

Application Page 1 of 2

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cell

(MM/DD/YYYY) (MM/DD/YYYY)

Name printed on your most recent book

 

Status of Book

Name printed on your most recent card

 

 

Status of Card

 

Submitting with application

 

Submitting with application

 

 

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

DS-11 04-2025

Clear Form

Application Page 2 of 2

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Eligibility The DS-11 form is used for first-time applicants, children under 16, and individuals who do not meet the criteria for renewal.
Application Process Applicants must submit the DS-11 in person at designated acceptance facilities or passport agencies.
Required Documents To complete the application, you need proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo.
Governing Laws The DS-11 application is governed by the Passport Act of 1926 and Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Guide to Using DS-11 U.S. Passport application

Completing the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is an essential step for obtaining a passport. After filling out the form, you will need to submit it in person at a designated acceptance facility or passport agency. Be prepared to provide supporting documents and payment for the application fee.

  1. Obtain the DS-11 form. You can download it from the U.S. State Department’s website or pick it up at a passport acceptance facility.
  2. Fill in your personal information. This includes your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and Social Security number.
  3. Provide your contact information. Include your current address, email address, and phone number.
  4. Indicate your citizenship status. Check the appropriate box to confirm whether you are a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen national.
  5. Complete the parental information section if you are under 16. Include the names and dates of birth of your parents or guardians.
  6. Choose your passport type. Indicate whether you are applying for a passport book, passport card, or both.
  7. Sign and date the application. Make sure to sign in the designated area and date it appropriately.
  8. Gather supporting documents. These may include proof of citizenship, identification, and a passport photo that meets the required specifications.
  9. Prepare your payment. Check the current fee schedule and include payment via check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State."
  10. Submit your application in person. Visit a passport acceptance facility or agency to submit your completed form, documents, and payment.

Get Answers 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 for individuals who are applying for the first time, are under age 16, or are not eligible to renew their passport by mail. This form is essential for obtaining a passport, which serves as an official document for international travel and identification purposes.

Who needs to fill out the DS-11 form?

Individuals who fall into any of the following categories should complete the DS-11 form:

  • First-time applicants for a U.S. passport.
  • Children under the age of 16 applying for their first passport.
  • Individuals whose previous passport was issued when they were under age 16.
  • Individuals whose passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Individuals whose passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
  • Individuals whose name has changed and cannot provide legal documentation for the change.

Where can I obtain the DS-11 form?

The DS-11 form can be obtained from several sources:

  1. Online through the U.S. State Department's official website, where you can download and print the form.
  2. At passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices and public libraries.
  3. At U.S. embassies and consulates if you are applying from abroad.

Do I need to submit my application in person?

Yes, the DS-11 application must be submitted in person. This requirement is in place to verify your identity and to collect your signature. Applicants must visit a designated passport acceptance facility or a passport agency to submit their form, along with the required documents and payment.

What documents do I need to submit with the DS-11 form?

When submitting the DS-11 form, you will need to provide several important documents, including:

  • A recent passport photo that meets the official requirements.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
  • Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or government-issued ID.
  • Payment for the passport application fee, which can be made via check or money order.

How long does it take to process a DS-11 application?

The processing time for a DS-11 application can vary based on several factors. Typically, it takes about 8 to 11 weeks for routine processing. If you need your passport more quickly, expedited service is available for an additional fee and usually takes about 5 to 7 weeks. However, these times may change, especially during peak travel seasons or due to unforeseen circumstances.

What should I do if I made a mistake on my DS-11 form?

If you realize that you made a mistake on your DS-11 form after submission, you should contact the National Passport Information Center for guidance. In many cases, you may need to submit a new application. It is important to correct any errors, as inaccuracies can delay the processing of your passport.

Can I track the status of my DS-11 application?

Yes, you can track the status of your DS-11 application online through the U.S. State Department's website. Typically, you will need to provide your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. This service allows you to stay informed about the progress of your application and receive updates on when your passport will be ready.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is providing inaccurate personal information. This includes misspelling names, providing incorrect dates of birth, or using nicknames instead of legal names. It is crucial to ensure that all personal details match the identification documents you will present.

Another mistake involves failing to sign the application form. The DS-11 requires the applicant's signature in a designated area. Omitting this step can result in the application being rejected. Always double-check that your signature is present and matches the one on your identification documents.

Many applicants overlook the importance of including a recent passport photo that meets specific requirements. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and adhere to size guidelines. If the photo does not meet these criteria, it can lead to delays in processing your application. Always review the photo requirements carefully before submission.

Additionally, some individuals forget to provide the necessary supporting documents. These documents may include proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and a valid form of identification. Without these documents, your application may be considered incomplete, leading to further delays.

Another common oversight is not paying the correct fee or misunderstanding the payment methods accepted. The application fee can vary based on the type of passport you are applying for, and payment must be made according to the guidelines provided. Ensure you check the current fee structure and acceptable payment methods to avoid any issues.

Lastly, applicants often fail to keep a copy of their completed application and supporting documents. This can be a significant mistake, as having a record of what was submitted can be invaluable if questions arise during processing. Always make copies of your application and documents for your own records before submitting them.

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 establish your identity, citizenship, and other necessary details. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the DS-11 application.

  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This can be a certified birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, or a naturalization certificate. It verifies your citizenship status.
  • Proof of Identity: Acceptable forms include a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or military ID. This document confirms your identity.
  • Passport Photo: A recent passport-sized photo is required. It must meet specific size and quality standards to be accepted.
  • Payment for Fees: A check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of State" is necessary to cover the application fees. Ensure the amount is correct to avoid delays.
  • Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security number on the application. If you do not have one, a statement explaining this is required.
  • Application for a Passport Card (if applicable): If you wish to apply for a passport card in addition to the passport book, this form must be filled out and submitted.
  • Parental Consent (for minors): If the applicant is under 16, both parents or guardians must provide consent, typically through a notarized statement.

Gathering these documents in advance can streamline the application process. Ensure that each item is complete and accurate to avoid potential delays in receiving your passport.

Similar forms

  • Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: Similar to the DS-11, this form is used to apply for a new document. Both require personal information and identification to verify identity.
  • Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: This document is essential for individuals seeking U.S. citizenship. Like the DS-11, it necessitates detailed personal information and proof of identity.
  • Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: This form is used by individuals applying for an immigrant visa. It shares similarities with the DS-11 in terms of required personal details and supporting documents.
  • Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card: This form is for obtaining a Social Security number. Both forms require applicants to provide identification and personal information.
  • Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: This document is used to request permission to work in the U.S. Like the DS-11, it requires applicants to submit personal information and proof of identity.
  • Form I-131, Application for Travel Document: This form is used for re-entry permits or refugee travel documents. Both forms require similar personal data and identification verification.
  • Form DS-5504, Application for a U.S. Passport: Name Change: This form is specifically for those who have legally changed their name. It also requires personal information and identification, akin to the DS-11.
  • Form I-864, Affidavit of Support: This document is necessary for family-based immigration cases. It requires personal and financial information, similar to the DS-11's requirements for supporting documents.
  • Form DS-182, Application for a U.S. Passport for a Child Under Age 16: Like the DS-11, this form is specifically for passport applications but is tailored for minors, requiring parental consent and identification.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are five important do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do provide accurate and complete information. Ensure that all details match your identification documents.
  • Do use black ink when filling out the form to ensure clarity and legibility.
  • Do sign and date the application in the designated areas. Your signature must be consistent with your identification.
  • Don't submit the form without a recent passport photo that meets the official requirements.
  • Don't forget to review your application for errors before submission. Mistakes can lead to delays.

By following these guidelines, applicants can enhance their chances of a smooth application process. Attention to detail is crucial in ensuring that the passport application is processed efficiently.

Misconceptions

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is often surrounded by various misconceptions. Understanding these can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly. Here are seven common misconceptions:

  • Only first-time applicants need to use the DS-11 form. Many believe that this form is exclusively for first-time passport seekers. However, it is also used for individuals who are applying for a passport after a significant change, such as a name change or if their previous passport was lost or stolen.
  • You can submit the DS-11 form online. Some applicants think they can fill out the DS-11 form online and submit it electronically. In reality, this form must be completed in person at an authorized acceptance facility.
  • All documents must be original. There is a misconception that all supporting documents must be original. While original documents are required for certain items, such as proof of citizenship, copies of other documents may be acceptable.
  • The passport photo can be taken anywhere. Many assume that any photo will suffice for the passport application. In fact, the photo must meet specific requirements, including size, background color, and quality. It’s advisable to have the photo taken at a professional service familiar with passport photo standards.
  • There is no fee for using the DS-11 form. Some individuals believe that applying for a passport using the DS-11 form is free. In truth, there is a fee associated with the application, which varies depending on the type of passport requested.
  • You can apply for a passport renewal with the DS-11 form. A common misunderstanding is that the DS-11 form can be used for passport renewals. In reality, the DS-11 is intended for new applications or specific situations, while the DS-82 form is used for renewals.
  • Processing times are the same for all applications. Many applicants think that processing times for the DS-11 form are uniform. However, processing times can vary based on demand, the time of year, and whether the application is submitted for expedited service.

By clarifying these misconceptions, applicants can better prepare for their passport application journey and avoid unnecessary delays.

Key takeaways

When filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, there are several important points to keep in mind. These takeaways will help ensure a smooth application process.

  • Eligibility Requirements: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for a U.S. passport. This includes being a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen national.
  • In-Person Submission: The DS-11 form must be submitted in person. This is a crucial step, especially for first-time applicants and minors.
  • Documentation Needed: Gather all necessary documents before filling out the application. This includes proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo.
  • Fees and Payment: Be aware of the fees associated with the application. Payment methods may vary by acceptance facility, so check beforehand.

By keeping these key points in mind, applicants can navigate the passport application process with greater confidence and ease.