DS-11 Application Form for New Passport

U.S. Department of State requires most first-time passport applicants to submit Form DS-11, the official application for a new U.S. passport. This guide explains who must use Form DS-11, how to complete it correctly, where to submit it, and how to avoid common delays—all in one place.

Whether you are applying for your first passport, replacing a lost passport, or applying for a child, this article provides everything you need for a smooth application process.

What Is Form DS-11?

Form DS-11 is the official application used to apply in person for a U.S. passport. It is used when you do not qualify for a passport renewal by mail.

You must submit Form DS-11 at an authorized passport acceptance facility, where your identity and documents are verified before being sent to the U.S. Department of State for processing.

Who Must Use Form DS-11?

You are required to use Form DS-11 if any of the following apply:

• You are applying for your first U.S. passport
• Your previous passport was lost or stolen
• Your last passport was issued before age 16
• Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago
• You are applying for a child under age 16
• You do not meet eligibility for Form DS-82 (passport renewal)

If none of these apply, you may qualify to renew using Form DS-82 instead.

Where to Get the DS-11 Application Form

You can obtain Form DS-11 in three official ways:

1. Complete the online form filler on the U.S. Department of State website and print it
2. Download and print the blank PDF form
3. Pick up a physical copy at a passport acceptance facility

Important:

Do not sign Form DS-11 until instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent.

How to Fill Out Form DS-11 (Step-by-Step)

1. Personal Information

Provide your full legal name, date of birth, place of birth, Social Security number, and contact details.

2. Citizenship Evidence

You must submit one of the following:

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

Original documents are required and will be returned by mail.

3. Identification

Acceptable photo ID includes:

• State driver’s license
• Government ID
• Military ID

You must submit photocopies of the front and back of your ID.

4. Passport Photo

• 2×2 inches
• White background
• Taken within the last 6 months
• No glasses

Photos that do not meet requirements are a leading cause of passport delays.

5. Signature

Sign the form only in front of the acceptance agent.

Where to Submit Form DS-11

Form DS-11 must be submitted in person at one of the following locations:

• U.S. Post Office passport locations
• County clerk offices
• Public libraries
• Courthouses
• Regional passport agencies (for urgent travel)

Appointments may be required depending on the location.

DS-11 Passport Fees (2026)

Typical costs include:

• Passport book fee
• Passport card fee (optional)
• Execution (acceptance) fee
• Expedited service fee (optional)

Fees are paid by check, money order, or approved payment methods at the acceptance facility.

How Long Does a DS-11 Passport Take?

Processing times vary depending on demand:

• Routine service: several weeks
• Expedited service: faster processing for an additional fee
• Urgent travel: same-day or limited-day service at a passport agency (appointment required)

Always apply as early as possible before international travel.

Common DS-11 Mistakes That Cause Delays

• Signing the form before your appointment
• Submitting incorrect or damaged citizenship documents
• Using an invalid passport photo
• Missing photocopies of ID
• Incomplete or inaccurate information

Double-checking your application before submission can save weeks of delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to submit Form DS-11?

Most acceptance facilities require an appointment, though some accept walk-ins.

Can I fill out DS-11 by hand?

Yes, but it must be completed in black ink and legibly.

Can I submit DS-11 online?

No. The form may be filled out online but must be printed and submitted in person.

Is Form DS-11 free?

The form itself is free, but passport processing and execution fees apply.

Can I use DS-11 to renew my passport?

Only if you do not qualify for renewal using Form DS-82.