What documents do I need to get a passport?

I’m looking to apply for my very first adult passport in the United States and want to make sure I gather everything correctly before my appointment. To be specific, I am a U.S. citizen by birth and I have never held a passport before. My social security number is available. Could you please provide a comprehensive list of the primary documents I need to present, such as what counts as “proof of citizenship” (like a birth certificate) and what specific form of government-issued photo identification (like a driver’s license) is required? Additionally, I will be applying in person at a passport acceptance facility, so should I bring original documents or just photocopies? Are there any specific requirements regarding the physical condition of my birth certificate (e.g., does it need to be the certified copy with the registrar’s raised, embossed, impressed, or multicolored seal)?

United States Passport Application: Required Documents

The application process varies slightly depending on whether you are applying for a first-time passport, renewing an adult passport, or applying for a minor. However, the core documentation requirements remain largely consistent.

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship

You must submit one of the following original documents (or a certified copy). Photocopies and notarized copies are generally not accepted.

• Fully Valid, Undamaged U.S. Passport: This applies if you are renewing a passport issued within the last 15 years.
• U.S. Birth Certificate: Must be issued by the city, county, or state of birth. It must bear the registrar’s signature and the date of filing with the registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth). It must also bear the seal of the issuing authority.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth: Issued by the U.S. Department of State.
• Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship: Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
• Verification of Birth: If your birth certificate was lost or stolen, you may submit a verification of birth, provided it contains the same information as the birth certificate.

2. Proof of Identity

You must present one of the following documents.

• Valid Driver’s License: Not a temporary or learner’s permit.
• Previous U.S. Passport: If undamaged.
• Military ID: Or military dependent ID.
• Government Employee ID: Federal, state, or municipal.
• Naturalization Certificate: (Can be used for both identity and citizenship).
• Certificate of Citizenship.

If you cannot present any of the above, you may need an "Identification Affidavit." This is a signed statement from a person who has known you for at least two years and possesses valid identification. The witness must appear in person with you.

3. Passport Photo

You must provide one color photograph that meets the strict requirements:

• Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
• Background: Plain white or off-white.
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months.
• Expression: Neutral expression or a natural smile with both eyes open and closed mouth.
• Clothing: Normal street clothes. No uniforms (unless religious daily wear).
• Glasses: Not permitted unless you submit a signed medical statement confirming that you cannot remove glasses due to a medical condition.
• Headgear: No hats or head coverings unless you submit a signed religious statement that you wear them daily as part of your faith.

Note: You cannot use a driver’s license photo or a photocopied photo.

4. Social Security Number (SSN)

You must provide your Social Security Number. If you have never been assigned an SSN, you must submit a statement declaring this fact.

5. Application Form

You must complete the correct form based on your eligibility.

• Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport):
  • Use this if you are applying for your first passport.
  • Use this if your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Use this if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
  • Use this if you are under the age of 16.
  • Important: Do not sign this form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
• Form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal Application):
  • Use this if you can mail your application.
  • Requirements: You must have your previous passport in your possession, it must be undamaged, it must have been issued when you were age 16 or older, and it must have been issued within the last 15 years.

6. Parental Consent (For Minors Under Age 16)

If applying for a child under 16:

• Both parents must appear with the child, or one parent must appear with a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) from the non-appearing parent.
• Evidence of parental relationship (Birth Certificate or Court Order).

7. Travel Itinerary (Proof of Urgency)

While not a standard requirement for the application itself, if you are applying for an urgent appointment (within 14 days of travel) or expedited processing, you must provide proof of travel, such as:

• A flight itinerary (showing your name and travel date).
• A letter from your employer showing business travel dates.
• A letter from a doctor or hospital regarding a medical emergency.

8. Payment

You will need two separate payments (unless paying by mail):

1. Application Fee: Paid to the "U.S. Department of State." Check or money order only for mail-in applications. Credit/debit cards accepted at acceptance facilities.
2. Execution (Acceptance) Fee: Paid directly to the acceptance facility (e.g., Post Office). This is usually paid by check, money order, or cash; credit/debit card acceptance varies by facility.

Summary of Submission

• For Form DS-11 (First-time/Minor/Damaged): You must appear in person at an acceptance facility (usually a post office or clerks of court). You must bring all documents with you.
• For Form DS-82 (Renewal): You mail the form, your old passport, your new photo, and the payment to the processing center. No in-person appearance is required.