Applying for a U.S. passport? Missing just one document can delay your entire application.
This guide explains exactly what paperwork you need, whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or requesting a child’s passport.
And don’t forget: every application requires a passport photo that meets strict government standards.
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Documents Needed for First-Time Adult Applicants (Age 16+)
If you’re applying for a U.S. passport for the first time and you’re 16 or older, you’ll need to apply in person and bring several key documents.
1. Form DS-11
This is the main passport application form. Fill it out online or by hand, but don’t sign it until instructed to do so at your appointment.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
You’ll need to show an original or certified copy of one of the following:
- U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of naturalization
- Certificate of citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
3. Proof of Identity
Bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or military ID, plus a photocopy of the front and back.
4. Passport Photo
You must submit one photo that meets official U.S. passport standards. You can take it at home with Passport Photo Online—no need to travel, wait in line, or guess if your photo is correct. Our tool offers:
- 100% compliance guarantee
- Expert human review
- Unlimited retakes
- Instant digital delivery
- Accepted by all U.S. passport agencies
5. Payment for Fees
Payment must be made via check or money order. Fees vary depending on whether you want standard or expedited service.
Documents Needed for a Child’s Passport (Under Age 16)
Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present. The process requires additional documentation to prove identity and parental consent.
1. Form DS-11
As with adults, this must be completed but unsigned before the appointment.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Original or certified copy of one of the following:
- U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
3. Proof of Parental Relationship
Typically, this will be the child’s birth certificate listing both parents.
4. Parental Identification
Both parents must bring a valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) along with photocopies.
5. Parental Consent
If both parents are present, verbal consent is sufficient. If one parent is absent, you must provide Form DS-3053 (notarized statement of consent) or legal documentation explaining sole custody.
6. One Passport Photo
The photo must meet the same standards as for adults. Taking a passport photo of a child can be tricky (kids often move, don’t look straight, or won’t keep a neutral expression), but it’s easy with Passport Photo Online.
7. Payment
The current fee for a child passport is $135 (application + execution). Pay by check or money order.
Ensure you bring originals and photocopies of all required documents to avoid delays.
Documents Needed to Renew a Passport
If your current passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, and is less than 15 years old, you may be eligible to renew it by mail using Form DS-82.
What you’ll need for a renewal by mail
1. Form DS-82
Complete the application and sign it before mailing.
2. Your Most Recent Passport
Must be submitted with the application. It will be returned once processed.
3. One Passport Photo
Your photo must meet all U.S. passport requirements. To save time, use Passport Photo Online.
4. Payment
Include a check or money order for the renewal fee ($130). If you want expedited processing, add $60.
5. Name Change Document (if applicable)
If your name has changed and is not reflected in your current passport, include an original or certified copy of the legal document (e.g., marriage certificate or court order).
Where to send it?
The mailing address depends on whether you’re requesting standard or expedited service.
Check the instructions on the DS-82 form for the correct address.
Can You Renew Your Passport Online?
If you meet certain criteria, you may be eligible to renew your U.S. passport entirely online through the Department of State’s online renewal system.
This means no in-person appointments, no mailing paper forms, and no waiting in line.
Who’s eligible for online renewal?
To renew online, you must meet all of the following:
- Be a U.S. citizen living in the United States
- Have a 10-year passport issued when you were age 25 or older
- Your passport must be currently valid or expired less than 5 years ago
- You’re not requesting any changes to your name, sex, date of birth, or place of birth
- You’re not traveling internationally for at least 8 weeks from the date of application
- You’re applying for a regular (tourist) passport, not a special issuance passport
How to renew online
1. Create a MyTravelGov account
Register or log in at MyTravelGov.
2. Start your application
Follow the instructions to begin the passport renewal process.
3. Enter your passport and travel details
Provide information from your current passport and note any upcoming travel.
4. Upload a compliant photo
You’ll need a recent digital photo that meets U.S. passport standards. You can take it yourself and verify it instantly with Passport Photo Online.
5. Sign and pay
Electronically sign your application and pay the required fee online.
6. Track your status
You’ll receive email updates as your renewal is processed.
Optional Documents for Special Cases
Depending on your situation, you may need to include additional paperwork with your passport application.
The tables below outline what’s required.
Name change
| Situation | Required Document |
|---|---|
| Name changed after marriage | Marriage certificate (certified copy) |
| Name changed after divorce | Divorce decree (certified copy) |
| Legal name change | Court order (certified copy) |
Lost or stolen passport
Note: You’ll also need to provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, just like a first-time applicant.
Child passport (one parent absent)
| Situation | Required Document |
|---|---|
| One parent cannot appear | Notarized DS-3053 form |
| Sole custody | Court order showing sole custody |
| Other parent is deceased | Death certificate |
Final Tips Before You Apply
Before applying, double-check that all your documents are either original or certified copies and include any required photocopies.
Don’t sign your forms ahead of time—especially Form DS-11, which must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent. Be sure to verify payment details, too, as most locations only accept checks or money orders.
Finally, try to book early, since passport processing times can be longer during busy travel seasons.
One last thing—your photo
Your application isn’t complete without a compliant passport photo. Don’t risk rejection because of shadows, the wrong size, or background issues.
Use Passport Photo Online and get it done right the first time:
- 100% compliance guarantee
- Expert human review
- Unlimited retakes
- No lines, no stress, no need to leave home
FAQ
Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate to apply?
Do I need both parents present for a child’s passport application?
What happens if my passport is lost or stolen?
How recent must my passport photo be?
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
What’s the fastest way to get a passport?
Is my child’s passport valid for 10 years?
As a Digital PR specialist and a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), Max has 5+ years of writing experience.
Over the course of his career, Max’s work has garnered significant attention, with features in numerous prominent publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BBC, TechRepublic, Glassdoor, and G2.
