Documents Needed for a Passport in the U.S.

There are various documents required for a passport application to be accepted by the State Department. Travelers are responsible for submitting specific items that verify their identity and citizenship before they can receive their travel documents. When individuals are in the process of learning how to apply for a passport, it is important that they learn what is needed. Without the proper items, the federal government will likely deny travelers’ applications.

When you submit a US passport application form, it is important you have all the necessary documents with you when you go to the acceptance facility. Without proper identification, you may experience delays in this process. Therefore, before you go to the passport office, you must take the time to prepare your materials.

What documents do I need to submit with my US passport application?

You may wonder about the supporting documents you must submit when you apply for a passport. The documents needed for a passport application to be processed include the following:

• First-time US passport application form DS-11
• State or federally-issued ID card
• Proof that you are a U.S. citizen
• Passport photo
• Payment for US passport fees

US Passport Application Forms

Before you can start obtaining a passport, it is important that you understand which application form you need to use. If you are a first-time applicant, use DS-11. However, there are different forms you can fill out for various purposes. For example:

• DS-11 is also for all child applicants.
• DS-82 is for renewal applicants.
• DS-5504 is for applicants who need their passports corrected.
• DS-64 is for residents who have a stolen or lost passport.

Government-Issued Identification and Proof of U.S. Citizenship

When you submit your US application form, you need to provide a copy of your government-issued ID along with it. Examples of suitable documents include your:

• Driver’s license.
• Learner’s permit.
• Non-driver ID card.
• Military ID.

Additionally, you cannot apply for a passport unless you bring proof that you are a U.S. citizen. Documents that verify this include:

• U.S. birth certificate.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certificate of Birth.
• Certificate of Citizenship.
• Certificate of Naturalization.

US Passport Photo

You must submit one US passport photo when you apply for your documents. This photo must meet federal requirements. If you do not have this image to accompany your completed US passport application, you cannot receive your document.

Payment for US Passport Fees

After you learn how to apply for a passport, you need to calculate the amount of fees you are responsible for paying. This amount varies based on the services you request. Child and first-time adult applicants need to pay a base $35 acceptance fee. Additionally, you need to pay a passport application fee. This varies depending on your age and which document you request. These fees are as follows:

• Adult passport book: $110
• Adult passport card: $30
• Child passport book: $80
• Child passport card: $15

If you need your documents quickly, you may need to pay an additional expedited passport fee. Whether you request this service at an approved office or a US passport agency, this fee is $60.