🛂 Apply for an Adult U.S. Passport — First Time or New Application

This official U.S. government guide explains how adults (age 16 and older) can apply for a new U.S. passport if it’s your first passport or you are not eligible to renew by mail. Source: USA.gov. ([usa.gov](https://www.usa.gov/apply-adult-passport))

📌 Who Needs to Apply in Person

You must apply for a new passport in person using Form DS‑11 if any of the following are true: • This is your first passport • Your previous passport was issued when you were under age 16 • Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged • Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago and you cannot renew by mail

📝 What You Need to Prepare

  • Form DS‑11 — complete but do not sign until instructed by the acceptance agent. You can fill it online and print it.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship — original birth certificate, previous passport, or naturalization certificate.
  • Valid photo ID — such as driver’s license or state ID.
  • Photocopies of citizenship document and ID (black & white, 8.5"x11").
  • Passport photo — a recent 2×2″ color photo meeting U.S. passport standards.
  • Fees — separate payment for application and acceptance (varies by passport type).

📍 Where to Apply

You submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility — often a U.S. post office, county clerk’s office, public library, or similar local government location that accepts passport applications.

You can search for acceptance facilities online and find one that may also offer passport photos onsite.

💵 Fees & Payment

For first‑time adult applications: • Passport Book: ~$130 application + ~$35 acceptance fee • Passport Card: ~$30 application + ~$35 acceptance fee • Both Book & Card: ~$160 application + ~$35 acceptance fee Additional services like expedited processing typically cost extra.

Payments to the U.S. Department of State usually must be by check or money order.

⏱️ Processing Times

Routine processing usually takes about 4–6 weeks; expedited service may take around 2–3 weeks (fees apply). Mail times and seasonal demand can affect totals.

📌 Tips & Official Tools

  • Fill out and print your DS‑11 using the official passport form filler.
  • Bring original documents and photocopies — missing materials can delay processing.
  • If you have imminent travel plans, ask about expedited or urgent processing options at the acceptance facility.