Form DS-11: Complete Guide to New U.S. Passport Applications (2026)
First-Time Applicants, Children Under 16, and In-Person Requirements
3-Day Processing Available · Starting at $147 + Government Fees
Cost: $165 adults · $135 children (includes $35 execution fee)
Processing: 6-8 weeks routine · 2-3 weeks expedited · 3 days with our service
Critical: Must apply IN PERSON (cannot mail) · Do NOT sign form until instructed
What is Form DS-11?
Form DS-11, officially titled “Application for a U.S. Passport,” is the government form required for first-time passport applicants (including those whose passport was lost or stolen), children under 16, and anyone who doesn't qualify to renew their passport by mail using Form DS-82. Unlike passport renewals, DS-11 applications require an in-person appearance at an authorized acceptance facility or regional passport agency.
The DS-11 form collects essential information including your name, date and place of birth, Social Security number, parental information (for minors), physical characteristics, emergency contact, and travel plans. This detailed information allows the U.S. Department of State to verify your U.S. citizenship and identity before issuing your passport.
Since 1992, Passports and Visas has helped over 500,000 travelers successfully navigate the passport application process, including comprehensive assistance with DS-11 applications for first-time applicants, families with children, and those replacing lost or stolen passports.
Who Must Use Form DS-11?
You are required to apply for a passport in person using Form DS-11 if you meet ANY of the following criteria:
DS-11 is REQUIRED If You:
- Are applying for your first U.S. passport – This includes adult first-time applicants of any age who have never held a U.S. passport
- Are under 16 years old – ALL minors under 16 must apply in person using DS-11, even if they've had a passport before. There is NO renewal option for children under 16
- Cannot submit your most recent passport – If your passport was lost, stolen, damaged beyond recognition, or mutilated, you must use DS-11
- Your previous passport was issued when you were under 16 – Even if you're now an adult, your childhood passport doesn't qualify for renewal. You must apply in person with DS-11
- Your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago – Passports older than 15 years cannot be renewed by mail
- Need to change your name without legal documentation – If you cannot provide an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- Your previous passport was limited in validity – If your last passport was issued for less than the full 10-year validity period (adults) or 5-year period (minors)
DS-11 vs. DS-82: What's the Difference?
Understanding which form to use is crucial for a successful application. Here's a detailed comparison:
| Criterion | Form DS-11 (New Application) | Form DS-82 (Renewal) |
|---|---|---|
| Applicant Age | Any age (required for all under 16) | 16 years and older only |
| Previous Passport | None, or cannot submit it | Must have and submit current/expired passport |
| In-Person Requirement | ✓ REQUIRED — Must appear at facility | NOT required — Can mail application |
| Passport Age | Over 15 years old OR issued before age 16 | Issued within last 15 years when 16+ |
| Name Change | With or without documentation | Only with legal documentation included |
| Processing Location | Acceptance facility or regional agency | Direct mail to processing center |
| Execution Fee | $35 (paid at acceptance facility) | None — no execution fee for renewals |
| Total Cost (Adult) | $165 ($130 + $35 execution fee) | $130 (no execution fee) |
Required Documents for Form DS-11
Gathering the correct documents is absolutely crucial for a successful DS-11 application. Missing or incorrect documentation is the #1 cause of application delays and rejections. Here's exactly what you need:
1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Primary Documents)
You MUST provide an original or certified copy of ONE of the following citizenship documents:
Acceptable Citizenship Documents:
- Certified U.S. Birth Certificate – Must be issued by the city, county, or state of birth with a registrar's raised, embossed, impressed, or multicolored seal, registrar's signature, and date filed with registrar's office (within 1 year of birth). Hospital-issued birth certificates are NOT accepted
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240 or DS-1350) – Original or certified copy of CRBA or Certification of Birth for U.S. citizens born outside the United States
- Certificate of Naturalization – Original naturalization certificate issued by USCIS (not a photocopy). This serves as both citizenship and identity proof
- Certificate of Citizenship – Original certificate of citizenship issued by USCIS. Also serves as identity proof
- Previous U.S. Passport – If you have one that's undamaged (can also serve as citizenship proof, even if expired or issued when you were a child)
2. Proof of Identity (Photo ID)
You must appear in person with valid, government-issued photo identification. The ID must be in good condition and clearly show your face. Acceptable identification documents include:
Valid Identification Documents:
- Previous U.S. Passport – Even if expired (this is the preferred form of identification)
- Driver's License – Valid or expired within the last 5 years, issued by a U.S. state DMV
- Government Employee ID – Must include your photograph and signature
- Military ID – Current U.S. military identification card with photo and signature
- Naturalization Certificate – Can serve as both citizenship AND identity proof
- Certificate of Citizenship – Can serve as both citizenship AND identity proof
If you cannot provide acceptable photo ID: You may use a combination of secondary documents (expired driver's license beyond 5 years, employee ID without photo, credit cards, etc.) AND bring an identifying witness who has known you for at least 2 years, has valid ID, and can testify to your identity under oath.
3. Passport Photograph
You must provide ONE color passport photograph taken within the last 6 months that meets strict State Department requirements:
Passport Photo Requirements:
- Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) measured from the outer edges
- Color: Must be color photograph on photo-quality paper
- Background: Plain white or off-white background with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible
- Recency: Photo must be taken within the last 6 months
- Head Position: Full-face view directly facing camera with neutral facial expression and both eyes open
- Head Size: Head must measure 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from bottom of chin to top of head
- Glasses: NO glasses allowed (even prescription glasses), except for medical reasons with signed doctor's statement
- Head Coverings: No hats or head coverings unless for religious purposes, and face must be fully visible from hairline to bottom of chin
- Quality: High quality print on matte or glossy photo paper - no shadows on face or background
- Modifications: Photos must not be digitally altered or enhanced
4. Payment
DS-11 applications require TWO separate fees paid to TWO different entities. This confuses many applicants, so pay careful attention:
| Fee Type | Adult (16+) | Minor (Under 16) | Paid To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Application Fee | $130 (book) $30 (card) | $100 (book) $15 (card) | U.S. Dept of State |
| Execution Fee | $35 | $35 | Acceptance Facility |
| Expedited (optional) | $60 | $60 | U.S. Dept of State |
| 1-2 Day Delivery (optional) | $21.36 | $21.36 | U.S. Dept of State |
| TOTAL (Routine Book) | $165 | $135 | Two payments |
Where to Submit Form DS-11
DS-11 applications cannot be mailed directly to passport processing centers. You have three options for in-person submission:
Option 1: Passport Acceptance Facilities
Standard DS-11 applications are accepted at approximately 8,000 authorized locations nationwide, including U.S. Post Offices, county clerk of court offices, public libraries, city or county government offices, and select community colleges. Use the State Department's Acceptance Facility Search Tool to find locations near you.
Option 2: Regional Passport Agencies (Urgent Travel)
For urgent travel within 14 days (or 28 days if you need a foreign visa), you can apply directly at one of 26 Regional Passport Agencies located in major cities including:
San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston, Seattle, Boston, Atlanta, and others.
Regional Agency Requirements:
- Appointment is MANDATORY (call 1-877-487-2778 or use the online booking system)
- Must provide proof of international travel within 14 days (flight confirmation, cruise ticket, itinerary)
- Bring all required documents (same as acceptance facility)
- Same-day to 5-day processing depending on travel date urgency
Option 3: Private Passport Expediting Service
For urgent travel needs OR to avoid lengthy appointment wait times at acceptance facilities, authorized expediting companies like Passports and Visas can submit your DS-11 application directly to regional agencies on your behalf.
Learn More About Our DS-11 Expediting Service →
DS-11 Processing Times
Processing times vary significantly based on your chosen service level, time of year, and current State Department workload:
| Service Level | Processing Time | Additional Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine Service | 6-8 weeks | No additional fee | No immediate travel plans |
| Government Expedited | 2-3 weeks | $60 | Travel in 4-8 weeks |
| Regional Agency (Urgent) | Same day to 5 days | $60 + appointment | Travel within 14 days |
| Private Expeditor (3-day) | 3 business days | Starting at $147 | Travel within 2-3 weeks |
| Private Expeditor (24-hour) | 1 business day | Premium pricing | Emergency travel |
Children's Passports: DS-11 Requirements for Minors Under 16
ALL children under age 16 must use Form DS-11 and apply in person, even for passport renewals. The requirements include additional safeguards to prevent international parental child abduction:
Parental Presence Requirements
- Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) - Must be notarized and include a photocopy of the absent parent's ID
- Court Order - If one parent has sole legal custody
- Death Certificate - If the other parent is deceased
Required Documents for Children's DS-11
Children's Passport Requirements:
- Completed Form DS-11 – Parents sign the form; children under 16 do NOT sign
- Child's Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Certified birth certificate showing BOTH parents' names, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or previous U.S. passport
- Proof of Parental Relationship – Birth certificate typically serves this purpose
- Both Parents' Identification – Valid photo ID for each parent
- Child's Passport Photo – Taken within last 6 months
- Payment – $100 application fee + $35 execution fee = $135 total
- Form DS-3053 (if applicable) – Notarized consent from absent parent with photocopy of their ID
Important Facts About Children's Passports
- Validity Period: Children's passports are valid for 5 years (not 10 years like adult passports)
- Cannot Renew: When a child's passport expires OR when they turn 16, they must apply for a new passport using DS-11
- Turning 16: At age 16, even with a valid child's passport, they must apply for an adult passport using DS-11. After that, they can renew by mail with DS-82
- Family Applications: Many acceptance facilities allow one appointment for an entire family. Confirm when scheduling.
Step-by-Step: Completing and Submitting Form DS-11
Follow these detailed steps for a successful DS-11 application without delays or rejections:
Step 1: Download and Complete Form DS-11
Download the most current version of Form DS-11 from the State Department (PDF format). You can also pick up a paper copy at any passport acceptance facility.
How to Complete DS-11:
- Complete ALL fields using black ink if handwriting, or type directly into the PDF
- Include your Social Security number (legally required by law)
- Provide both parents' names even if not in contact
- Include emergency contact information
- Sign ONLY in the presence of the acceptance agent (do not pre-sign)
- Print the completed form (double-sided printing is acceptable)
CRITICAL: Do NOT sign Form DS-11 until instructed by the acceptance agent. Pre-signing invalidates the entire application.
Step 2: Gather All Required Supporting Documents
Collect and organize all required documents:
- Proof of citizenship - Original certified birth certificate with raised seal, naturalization certificate, or previous passport
- Valid photo ID - Driver's license, previous passport, government ID, or military ID
- One passport photo - Meeting all State Department requirements, taken within 6 months
- Payment - Two separate payments: $130 or $100 application fee + $35 execution fee
Step 3: Find and Schedule an Appointment
Use the Acceptance Facility Search Tool to locate facilities near you. When you find a convenient location, call to schedule an appointment, ask about hours, wait times, and accepted payment methods, and book as early as possible (4-8 weeks out during peak season).
Pro Tip: Schedule appointments at smaller facilities (libraries, clerk of court offices) rather than busy post offices for shorter wait times and better service.
Step 4: Appear in Person at Your Appointment
Arrive 10-15 minutes early with all documents organized. The acceptance agent will review your form, verify your citizenship document and photo ID, check your passport photo, administer an oath, instruct you to sign Form DS-11 in their presence, witness your signature, make photocopies of your ID, collect both fee payments, and provide you with a receipt and application tracking number. The entire appointment typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Step 5: Track Your Application Status
After submission, track your application online at the State Department's status tracking page. You'll need: Last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of Social Security number. Status typically updates within 7-10 business days after acceptance facility submission. Status stages: “In Process” → “Approved” → “Shipped”.
Step 6: Receive Your Passport
Your completed passport arrives by mail. Standard mail takes 1-2 weeks after approval; expedited delivery takes 1-2 days after approval (if you paid $21.36). Citizenship documents return in a separate envelope 2-4 weeks after passport delivery.
Upon receipt: Immediately verify all information is correct (name spelling, date of birth, photo). Sign your passport in the signature box on page 3. Your passport is now valid for international travel.
Common DS-11 Mistakes to Avoid
These frequent errors cause delays, rejections, and resubmissions. Avoid them to ensure smooth, fast processing:
- Signing Form DS-11 before appearing at acceptance facility - This is the #1 mistake and INVALIDATES your entire application
- Using a photocopy of birth certificate - Only original or certified copies with raised seal accepted
- Providing hospital birth certificate - Must be vital records office or state-issued certificate with seal
- Incorrect passport photo - Wrong size, too old, wearing glasses, digital alterations, or background issues
- Not including Social Security number - Legally required on DS-11 by federal law
- Missing parent information - Include both parents' names even if estranged, unknown, or not in contact
- Incomplete payment - Remember TWO separate fees to TWO different entities
- Damaged or altered citizenship documents - Torn, stained, water-damaged, or laminated documents may be rejected
- For minors: Only one parent appearing - Both required unless you have Form DS-3053, sole custody order, or death certificate
- Applying too close to travel date - Allow minimum 8-10 weeks, preferably 4-6 months
- Using expired ID as proof of identity - ID must be valid or expired within last 5 years
- Not matching name on all documents - Names must match across DS-11, citizenship doc, and ID
- Forgetting to bring payment to appointment - Bring exact payment methods accepted by that facility
- Not making copies of documents for your records - Keep copies before submitting originals
- Incorrect mailing address on DS-11 - Verify address is correct for secure passport delivery
How to Expedite Your DS-11 Application
When you need your passport quickly, you have several expedited options depending on your timeline and circumstances:
Option 1: Government Expedited Service ($60)
When submitting your DS-11 at an acceptance facility, request expedited service for an additional $60. This reduces processing to 2-3 weeks plus mailing time (approximately 4-5 weeks total from acceptance to receipt).
Best For: Travel in 5-8 weeks without urgent pressure, willing to pay extra for faster processing.
Option 2: Regional Passport Agency (Same Day to 5 Days)
For travel within 14 days, schedule an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. These government offices provide same-day to 5-day service for urgent international travel. Requires proof of international travel within 14 days, mandatory appointment, and all required DS-11 documents. Cost: $165 + $60 expedited fee = $225 for adult passport.
Best For: Emergency travel within 2 weeks, can secure appointment and travel to agency location.
Option 3: Private Passport Expediting Service
Registered expediting companies like Passports and Visas act as your authorized courier, submitting applications directly to regional agencies on your behalf with processing options from 24 hours to 7 business days.
What's Included: Expert document review, door-to-door FedEx courier service, no appointment needed, guaranteed processing timeline, personal concierge support, real-time status tracking, 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Pricing: Starting at $147 plus government fees for 3-day processing. Premium pricing for 24-48 hour emergency service.
Best For: Travel within 2-4 weeks, want guaranteed timeline without appointment hassles, need expert guidance, or value time over cost.
In our 30+ years serving over 500,000 travelers, we maintain a 99.7% success rate for passport applications. Our expertise ensures your DS-11 is completed correctly the first time, eliminating costly delays and resubmissions.
Get Started with DS-11 Expediting →
Frequently Asked Questions About Form DS-11
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