Contents
Obtaining a U.S. passport is an essential step for traveling internationally, and the DS-11 application form serves as the starting point for many first-time applicants. This form is designed for individuals who are applying for a passport for the first time, those who are under 16 years old, or those whose previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged. The form necessitates that applicants provide specific personal details, including their name, date of birth, and social security number. Additionally, it requires evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. To ensure a smooth application process, applicants must also include a recent passport photo that meets specific guidelines. Moreover, the DS-11 form must be submitted in person at designated acceptance facilities, where applicants may be required to pay a processing fee. Understanding the nuances of the DS-11 form is crucial for individuals seeking to secure their passport and embark on their international travels without delay.
Sample - DS-11 U.S. Passport application Form
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.
For information or questions, visit travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at
SECTION A. ELIGIBILITY TO USE THIS FORM
This form is used to apply for a U.S. passport book and/or card in person at an acceptance facility, a passport agency (by appointment
only), or a U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency (if abroad). The U.S. passport is a travel document attesting to one’s identity and
issued to U.S. citizens or non-citizen U.S. nationals. To be eligible to use this form you must apply in person if at least one of the following
is true:
I am applying for my first U.S. passport
I am under age 16
My previous U.S. passport was either: a) issued under age 16;
b)
issued more than 15 years ago; c) lost, stolen, or damaged
If none of the above statements apply to you, then you may be eligible to apply using form DS-82 or DS-5504 depending on your circumstances.
NOTE: You may be ineligible to receive a passport if you owe child support or have unpaid federal taxes. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.
• Notice to Applicants Under Age 16: You must appear in person to apply for a U.S. passport with your parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.
• Notice to Applicants Ages 16 and 17: At least one of your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must know that you are applying for a U.S.
passport. See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.
• Notice to Applicants for No-Fee Regular, Service, Official, or Diplomatic Passports: You may use this application if you meet all
provisions listed; however, you must consult your sponsoring agency for instructions on proper routing procedures before forwarding
this application. Your completed passport will be released to your sponsoring agency and forwarded to you.
SECTION B. STEPS TO APPLY FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
1. Complete this form (Do not sign until requested to do so by an authorized agent).
2. Attach one color photograph 2x2 inches in size and supporting documents (See Section D of these instructions).
3. Schedule appointment to apply in person by visiting our website or calling NPIC (see contact info at the top page).
4. Arrive for appointment and present completed form and attachments to the authorized agent who will administer th
e oath, witness
you s
igning your form, and collect your passport fee.
5. Track application status online at Passportstatus.state.gov.
6. Receive new passport and original supporting documents (that you submitted with your application).
SECTION C. HOW TO COMPLETE THIS FORM
Please see the instructions below for items on the form that are not self-explanatory. The numbers match the numbered items of the form.
1. Name (Last, First, Middle): Enter the name to appear in the passport. The name to appear in the passport should be consistent with
your proof of citizenship and identification. If you have changed your name and are not eligible to use a DS-82 or DS-5504, you must
use this form. Visit travel.state.gov/namechange for more information.
2. Date of Birth: Use the following format: Month, Date, and Year (MM/DD/YYYY).
3. Sex: You must select sex marker option “M” (male) or “F” (female) that corresponds with your biological sex at birth.
4. Place of Birth: Enter the name of the city and state if in the U.S. or city and country as
presently known.
5. Social Security Number: You must provide a Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one, in accordance with Section
6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E) and 22 U.S.C 2714a(f). If you do not have a Social Security number, you must
enter zeros in this field and submit a statement, signed, and dated, that includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under
the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by
the Social Security Administration.” If you reside abroad, you must also provide the name of the foreign country where you reside. The
U.S. Department of State must provide your SSN and foreign residence information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury which will
use it in connection with debt collection and check against lists of persons ineligible or potentially ineligible to receive a U.S. passport,
among other authorized uses. If you fail to provide the information, we may deny your application and the Internal Revenue Service
(IRS) may enforce a penalty. Refer all questions on this matter to the nearest IRS office.
Primary Contact Phone Number and List All Other Names You Have Used: By providing your primary phone number, you give us
approval to send you (text and/or SMS) messages about the status of your passport and important travel information. Also, enter all
legal names previously used to include maiden name, name changes, and previous married names. You can enter up to two names
one in section A and one in section B. If you need more space to write additional names, please use a separate sheet of paper and
attach it to this form.)
6.
USCIS Registration A-Number (A-Number): Enter your nine-digit number (if applicable). If you do not have an A-Number, leave this field blank.
Bottom Section of Application Page 1 - Identifying Documents and Signature Blocks: Skip this section and complete Application Page 2.
NOTE: Do not sign this form until requested to do so by the authorized agent who will administer the oath to you.
9.
7.
Email Address: By providing your email address, you give us approval to send you email messages about the status of your passport and important travel information.
Instruction Page 1 of 4
OMB Control No. 1405-0004
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes
8.
Mailing Address Line 1 and 2 "In Care Of ":
For line 1 enter applicant’s Street/RFD #, or P.O. Box or URB or Apt/Suite #. For line 2, if you do not
live at the address listed in this field , put the name of the person who lives at this address and mark it "In Care Of". If the applicant is a minor
child, you must include the "In Care Of" name of the parent or adult registered to receive mail at this address.
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
SECTION D. ATTACHMENTS TO SUBMIT WITH THIS FORM
Once you have completed Application Pages 1 and 2, attach the supporting documents as outlined in this section.
1.
PROOF OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP Information can be found on travel.state.gov/citizenship.
Applicants Born Outside the United States
Applicants Born in the United States
Your evidence will be returned to you if it is not damaged, altered,
or forged. Submit an original or certified copy
and a photocopy of
the front and back if there is printed information on the back,
of
one of the following doc
uments
:
• U.S. Birth Certificate that meets all the following requirements:
o Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
o Lists your full name, date of birth, and birthplace
o Lists your parent(s)' full names
o Lists date filed with registrar's office (must be within one
year of birth)
o Shows registrar's signature and the seal of the issuing
authority
o Lists your biological sex at birth
• Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Abroad
• Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
• Secondary documents may be submitted if the U.S. birth
certificate was filed more than one year after your birth or if no
birth record exists. For no birth record on file, submit a
registrar's letter to that effect. For both scenarios, submit a
combination of the evidence listed below, with your first and last
name, birthdate and/or birthplace, the seal or other certification
of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing
official.
o A hospital birth record
o An early baptismal or circumcision certificate
o Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records
o Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as
a newspaper article)
o Notarized affidavits (or DS-10, Birth Affidavit) of older blood
relatives having knowledge of your birth may be submitted
in addition to some of the records listed above.
If we determine that you are a U.S. citizen, your lawful permanent
resident card submitted with this application will be forwarded to
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
• Claiming Citizenship through Naturalization of One or Both
Parent(s), submit all the following:
o Your parent(s) Certificate(s) of Naturalization
o Your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evide
nce that you
were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen
parent, if appl
icable
o Your foreign birth certificate (and official transla
tion if the
document is not in English)
o Your evidence of admission to the United State
s for legal
permanent residence and proof you subsequently resided
in the United States
• Claiming Citizenship through Birth Abroad to At Least One U.S.
Citizen Parent, submit all the following:
o Your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240),
Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545), or your
foreign birth certificate
(and official translation if the
document is not in
English)
o Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship
o Your parents' marriage certificate
o Affidavit showing all your U.S. citizen parents' periods
and
places of residence and physical presence before your
birth (DS-5507)
• Claiming Citizenship Through Adoption by a U.S. Citizen
Parent(s), if your birthdate is on or after October 5, 1978,
submit evidence of all the following:
o Your permanent residence status
o Your full and final adoption
o You were in the legal and physical custody of you
r U.S.
citizen parent(s)
o You have resided in the United States
2. PROOF OF IDENTITY Information can be found at travel.state.gov/identification.
Present your original identification and submit a front and back photocopy with this form. It must show a photograph that is a good likeness
of you. Examples include:
• Driver's license (not temporary or learner's permit)
• Previous or current U.S. passport book/card
• Military identification
• Federal, state, or city government employee identification
• Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
3. A RECENT COLOR PHOTOGRAPH See the full list of photo requirements on travel.state.gov/photos.
Attach one photo, 2x2 inches in size. U.S. passport photo requirements may differ from photo requirements of other countries. To avoid
processing delays, be sure your photo meets all the following requirements (Refer to the photo template on Application Page 1):
• Taken less than six months ago
• Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the
chin to the top of the head
• Head must face the camera directly with full face in view
• No eyeglasses and head covering and no uniforms*
• Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper
• Use a plain white or off-white background
*Head coverings are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement verifying that it is part of recognized, traditional religious attire
that is customarily or required to be worn continuously in public or a signed doctor's statement verifying its daily use for medical purposes.
Glasses or other eyewear are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement from a doctor explaining why you cannot remov
e them
(e.g., during the recovery period from eye surgery). Photos are to be taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis. You cannot wear a
uniform, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire.
Instruction Page 2 of 4
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
4. PROOF OF PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP (FOR APPLICANTS UNDER AGE 16)
Parents/guardians must appear in person with the child and submit the following:
• Evidence of the child's relation
ship to parents/guardian(s) (Example: a birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad listing
the
names of the parent(s)/guard
ian(s) and child)
• Original parental/guardian government-issued photo identification and a photocopy of the front and back (to satisfy proof of identity)
If only one parent/guardian can appear in person with the child, you must also submit one of the following:
• The second parent's notarized written statement or DS-3053 (including the child's full name and date of birth) consenting to the
passp
ort issuance for the child. The notarized statement
cannot be more than three months old, must be signed and notarized on the
same day, and must come with a front and back photocopy of the second parent's government-issued photo identification.
• The second parent’s death certificate (if second parent is deceased)
• Evidence of sole authority to apply (Example: a court order granting sole legal custody or a birth certificate listing only one parent)
• A written statement (made under penalty of perjury) or DS-55
25 explaining, in detail, why the second parent cannot be reached
OR
PROOF OF PARENTAL AWARENESS (FOR APPLICANTS AGES 16 AND 17)
We may request the consent of one legal parent
/legal guardian to issue a U.S. passport to you. In many cases, the passport authorizin
g
officer may be able to ascertain parental awarene
ss of the application by virtue of the parent’s presence when the minor submits the
application or a signed note from the parent or p
roof the parent is paying the application fees. However, the passport authorizing o
fficer
retains discretion to request the legal parent’s/lega
l guardian’s notarized statement of consent to issuance (e.g., on Form DS-
3053).
5. FEES
Passport service fees are established by law and regulation (see 22 U.S.C. 214, 22 C.F.R. 22.1, and 22 C.F.R. 51.50-56) and are collected at
the time you apply for the passport service. By law, the passport fees are non-refundable. Visit travel.state.gov/passportfees for current
fees, payment methods, and how fees are used and processed. Additional fee information is as follows:
• The execution fee must be paid separately and made payable to the acceptance facility in the payment method they accept.
• If applying outside the United States: Please see the website of your embassy, consulate, or consular agency for acceptable payment
methods.
Other Services Requiring Additional Fee (Visit travel.state.gov for more details):
SECTION E. HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM
Submitting your form depends on your location and how soon you need your passport.
• Applicant Located Inside the United States: For the latest information regarding processing times, scheduling appointments, and
neares
t designated acceptance facilities visit travel.state.gov or con
tact NPIC.
• Applicant Located Outside the United States: In most countries, you must app
ly in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate for all
passpo
rt services. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different pro
cedures for submitting and processing your application. Visit
travel.state.gov to check the U.S. embassy or consulate webpage for more information.
SECTION F. RECEIVING YOUR PASSPORT AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
• Difference Between U.S. Passport Book and Card: The book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. The card is not valid
for international air travel, only for entry at land border crossings and seaports of entry when traveling from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda,
and the Caribbean. The maximum number of letters provided for your given name (first and middle) on the card is 24 characters. If both
your given names are more than 24 characters, you must shorten one of your given names you list on item #1 of Application Page 1.
• Separate mailings: You may receive your newly issued U.S. passport book and/or card and your citizenship evidence in two separate
mailings. If you are applying for both a book and card, you may receive three separate mailings: one with your returned evidence, one
with your newly issued book, and one with your newly issued card. All documentary evidence that is not damaged, altered, or
forged will be returned to you. Photocopies will not be returned.
• Passport numbers: Each newly issued passport book or card will have a different passport number than your previous one.
• Shipping and Delivery Changes: If your mailing address changes prior to receipt of your new passport, please contact NPIC. NOTE:
We will not mail a U.S. passport to a private address outside the United States or Canada.
• Passport Corrections, Non-Receipt/Undeliverable Passports, and Lost/Stolen Passport: For more information visit travel.state.gov
or contact NPIC.
Special Issuance Passports: If you apply for a no-fee regular, service, official, or diplomatic passport at a designated acceptance
facility, you must pay the execution fee. No other fees are charged when you apply.
Verification of a previous U.S. Passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad: Upon your request, we verify previously issued
U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad if you are unable to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship.
1-2 Day Delivery: Only available for passport book (and not passport card) mailings in the United States.
Expedite Service: Only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.
•
•
•
•
Instruc
tion Page 3 of 4
U.S. Department of State
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
DS-11 04-2025
WARNING
False statements made knowingly and willfully in passport applications, including affidavits or other documents submitted to support this
application, are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under U.S. law including the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1542, and/or
18 U.S.C. 1621. Alteration or mutilation of a passport issued pursuant to this application is punishable by fine and/or imprisonme
nt under
the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. Th
e use of a passport in violation of the restrictions contained herein or of passport regulations is
punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1544. All statements and documents are subject to verification.
Failure to provide information requested on this form, including your Social Security number, may result in significant
processing delays and/or the denial of your application.
ACTS OR CONDITIONS
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITIES: Collection of this information is authorized by 22 U.S.C. 211 a et seq.; 8 U.S.C. 1104; 26 U.S.C. 6039E, 22 U.S.C.
2714a(f), Section 236 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and
2001; E
xecutive Order 11295 (August 5, 1966); and 22 C.F.
R. parts 50 and 51.
PURPOSE: We are requesting this information in order to determine your eligibility to be issued a U.S. passport. Your Social Security
number is used to verify your identity.
ROUTINE USES: This information may be disclosed to another domestic government agency, a private contractor, a foreign government
age
ncy, or to a private person or private employer in accordance
with certain approved routine uses. These routine uses include, but are
not limited to, law enforcement activities, employmen
t verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation a
ctivities,
and activities that meet the Secretary of State
's responsibility to protect U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals abroad.
Your Social
Security number will be provided to the U.S. Departme
nt of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collectio
n, among other
purposes authorized and gen
erally described in this section. More information on the routine uses for the system can be found in System
of Records Notices State-05, Overseas Citizen Services Records and Other Overseas Records and State-26, Passport Rec
ords.
DISCLOSURE: Providing information on this form is voluntary. Be advised, however, that failure to provide the information requested on
this form may cause delays in processing your U.S. passport application and/or could also result in the refusal or denial of your application.
Failure to provide your Social Security number may result in the denial of your application (consistent with 22 U.S.C. 2714a(f)) and may
subject you to penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service, as described in the Federal Tax Law on Instruction Page 1 (Section C) to
this form.
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 85 minutes per response, including the time required for
searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary data, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the
final collection. You do not have to supply this information
unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If
you have
comments on the accuracy of this burden
estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: Passport Forms
Officer,
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Pa
ssport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support
, 44132
Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1
199.
For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and
processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.
The applicant agrees with the following statement:
I am not currently required to register under the sex offender registration program of any jurisdiction for a sex offense against a minor. I have not been convicted of a federal or state
drug offense or convicted of a statutory "sex tourism" crime, and I am not the subject of an outstanding federal, state, or local warrant of arrest for a felony; a criminal court order
forbidding my departure from the United States; or a subpoena received from the United States in a matter involving federal prosecution for, or grand jury investigation of, a felony.
If any of the above-mentioned acts or conditions have been performed by or apply to the applicant, a supplementary explanatory statement under oath (or affirmation) by the
applicant is required to be attached and made part of this application.
Instruction Page 4 of 4
DS-11 04-2025
Attach a color photograph of applicant
taken within the last six months
Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.
Staple
Staple
StapleStaple
City
USCIS Registration A-Number (if applicable)
State
Zip Code
Country (if outside the United States)
Email (
(see application status at passportstatus.state.gov)
OMB Control No. 1405-0004
Expiration Date: 06/30/2028
Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes
B.
A.
List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change). If needed, attach additional pages.
Email
A-
Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB. Also include Apartment, Suite, etc
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(If applicant is a child, write "In Care Of" the parent) Example: In Care Of - Jane Doe
Sex
9.
Application Page 1 of 2
Social Security Number
Place of Birth
U.S. Passport Book
U.S. Passport Card
Both
The U.S. Passport Card is not valid for international air travel. See Instruction Page 3
Regular Book (Standard)
Large Book (Non-Standard)
The large book is for frequent international travelers who need more visa pages
DS-11 04-2025
If your most recent passport book/card was lost or stolen, you must explain in detail below. Please provide your previous book/card number and include the date and location (address/city/state/
country) of the loss/theft, if known. Please indicate whether you filed a police report, and if it is available, please submit a copy. If you need more space, continue on a separate sheet of paper.
Name printed on your most recent card
Name printed on your most recent book
Status of Book
Submitting with application
Stolen
Lost
In my possession (if expired)
Status of Card
Submitting with application
Stolen Lost
In my possession (if expired)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
(MM/DD/YYYY)
Sex
Sex
Application Page 2 of 2
Cell
Clear Form
Form Information
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The DS-11 form is used to apply for a new U.S. passport for individuals who are applying for the first time or are replacing a lost or stolen passport. |
| Eligibility | To use the DS-11 form, applicants must be U.S. citizens or non-citizen nationals and must provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. |
| Application Submission | The completed DS-11 form must be submitted in person at an approved passport acceptance facility or a passport agency. |
| Processing Time | Standard processing for a passport usually takes 8 to 11 weeks, while expedited processing is faster, typically within 5 to 7 weeks. |
| State-specified Requirements | Some states may have additional requirements for passport applications. It is essential to check local laws for details. |
| Fee Structure | The fees for a new passport can differ based on the applicant's age and whether expedited service is requested. |
Detailed Guide for Filling Out DS-11 U.S. Passport application
When filling out the DS-11 form for a U.S. Passport, you'll want to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Completing the form accurately is crucial as it directly impacts the processing of your application. After submitting your form, you’ll need to visit an authorized acceptance facility or a passport agency to finalize the process.
- Start by gathering the required documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship and a valid form of identification.
- Visit the official U.S. State Department website to download the DS-11 form or obtain a physical copy at an acceptance facility.
- Fill in your personal information in the appropriate sections, including your name, date of birth, and address.
- Provide your social security number if you have one. If not, indicate that on the form.
- Indicate your sex and fill in your email address and phone number.
- List your parents’ names, including their birthplaces and dates of birth.
- Provide any previous passport information if applicable.
- Attach a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the official requirements.
- Sign and date the form, certifying that all information is correct.
- Submit the completed form along with the necessary fee and supporting documents to an acceptance facility or passport agency.
Obtain Answers on DS-11 U.S. Passport application
-
What is the DS-11 form?
The DS-11 form is the application used for obtaining a U.S. passport for the first time. It’s required for applicants who are applying for a passport as a minor or whose previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged. This form is also used for individuals who have never been issued a passport.
-
How do I fill out the DS-11 form?
Start by ensuring you have all necessary information available, such as your personal details, proof of citizenship, and identification. The form consists of multiple sections requiring basic information, including your name, date of birth, social security number, and contact details.
Be sure to fill out the form completely and accurately. Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by the acceptance agent during the submission process.
-
Where can I submit the DS-11 form?
The completed DS-11 form must be submitted in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. This can be a post office, library, or government office. You can find a nearby location by visiting the U.S. State Department's website.
Remember to bring valid identification, a recent passport photo, and payment for the application fee when you go to submit the form.
-
What documents do I need to accompany the DS-11 form?
- Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
- A valid photo ID, like a driver's license or government-issued ID.
- A recent passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements.
- Payment for the application fee, which can usually be done by check or credit card, depending on the location.
Common mistakes
Applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 application form can seem straightforward, but common mistakes often lead to delays or complications. One prevalent error is failing to provide a suitable photo. The U.S. Department of State has specific guidelines for passport photos, including size, background color, and facial expression. A photo that doesn't comply with these standards can result in rejection of the application, so it’s crucial to follow the requirements closely.
Another frequent mistake is not completing the application in full. Applicants may skip sections that seem unnecessary, which can lead to processing delays. Every question on the DS-11 form is designed to gather essential information, and omissions can create confusion. Thus, taking the time to carefully fill out each section is essential to ensure a smooth application process.
Some people also overlook the importance of signing the application correctly. The DS-11 form requires that applicants sign their name in front of a passport acceptance agent. Failing to do so or dating the application incorrectly can invalidate the submission. Ensuring that the application is signed appropriately can prevent unnecessary setbacks.
Finally, applicants often misjudge the payment methods or fees. The DS-11 form requires a specific fee, and understanding what payment options are accepted is vital. Using an incorrect payment method can delay processing and lead to further complications down the line. Reviewing the most recent payment guidelines before submitting the application can help avoid this issue.
Documents used along the form
The DS-11 form is essential for applying for a new U.S. passport. In addition to this application form, several other documents may be required to ensure the application process proceeds smoothly. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the DS-11 application.
A certified copy of your birth certificate serves as proof of U.S. citizenship and includes details such as your full name, date of birth, and place of birth. This can include a valid driver’s license, government-issued ID, or military ID. A photo ID establishes your identity in conjunction with the application. A recent, passport-size photograph is required that meets specific requirements regarding size and background. This photo helps in verifying your identity. If your current name differs from what is shown on your birth certificate or ID, include documents such as a marriage certificate or court order for name change. Payment of the application fee is required. This can typically be made via check or money order and must accompany your application. If applying for a minor, you may need a signed consent form from the non-applying parent or legal guardian to verify permission for the passport application. For minors, a document that establishes the parent-child relationship, such as a birth certificate, is required.
Collecting and submitting these documents alongside the DS-11 form will facilitate the processing of your passport application. Ensuring all items are accurate and complete allows for a smoother application journey and reduces processing delays.
Similar forms
- Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card): Like the DS-11, this form requires personal information, including full name, date of birth, and address. Both forms are used to apply for an official document that proves identity and citizenship status.
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): This application is similar in that it requires detailed biographical information. Individuals applying for naturalization must also provide proof of residency, just as passport applicants must show proof of citizenship.
- Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application): Just as the DS-11 is used for passport applications, the DS-260 is used for those seeking an immigrant visa. Both forms involve rigorous documentation to establish identity and legal status.
- Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return): While primarily a tax document, the Form 1040 collects personal information and verifies the identity of the applicant, resembling the DS-11's requirements for personal data verification.
- Form SSA-1 (Application for Retirement Insurance Benefits): This form requires applicants to provide similar identification details like full name and Social Security number. Both forms aim to confirm identity for the issuance of government benefits or identification documents.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, following the right practices can help ensure a smooth application process. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
- Do gather all necessary documents before starting the application.
- Do use black ink when filling out the form by hand.
- Do double-check all information for accuracy.
- Don't use any correction fluid or tape on the application.
- Don't sign the application until instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent.
- Don't submit your application without a recent passport photo that meets the requirements.
Misconceptions
When it comes to applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 form, a few misconceptions often arise. Here are some common myths clarified:
- Myth 1: You only need to fill out the DS-11 form if you are a first-time applicant.
- Myth 2: You can submit the DS-11 form online.
- Myth 3: You can choose any photograph for your passport.
- Myth 4: A parent can apply for a minor's passport without the child present.
- Myth 5: The DS-11 application is the same as the renewal application.
- Myth 6: You can apply for a passport without required documents.
- Myth 7: You will receive your passport immediately after applying.
While it's true that the DS-11 is primarily for first-time applicants, it can also be used if your previous passport is damaged, lost, or if your name has changed and you can’t submit your old passport.
The DS-11 form must be submitted in person. Applicants are required to visit an acceptance facility or a passport agency to apply.
Passport photos must meet specific requirements. They should be 2x2 inches in size, taken against a plain white background, and show your full face and shoulders.
When applying for a passport for a child under 16, both parents or guardians must be present, unless one parent has sole custody.
The DS-11 is not for renewing passports. For renewals, you should use the DS-82 form if you meet certain eligibility criteria.
All passport applications require specific documents, such as proof of U.S. citizenship and a government-issued photo ID. Without these, your application will be delayed.
The passport process can take several weeks, depending on processing times and whether you opted for expedited service. It's important to plan ahead.
Key takeaways
- The DS-11 form is required for individuals applying for a U.S. passport for the first time.
- All applicants must submit the form in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
- Provide accurate personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and social security number.
- Accompany your application with a recent passport photo that meets specific requirements.
- Have proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, ready for submission.
- Prepare to pay the applicable passport fees, which can be done by check or money order.
- Track your application status online after submission, typically after about 7 to 10 business days.
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