How to Get a New Passport (2026 Guide) — Step-by-Step for U.S. Citizens

Getting a new U.S. passport can be confusing if you’re applying for the first time or aren’t eligible to renew by mail. This guide explains passport eligibility, how to apply for a new passport, where to apply, typical processing times, passport fees, and what documents you need to prepare — all in clear, step-by-step detail.

What Is a New Passport?

A new passport refers to a first-time U.S. passport application or situations where you must apply in person rather than renewing by mail. A new passport is issued by the U.S. Department of State and verifies your identity and citizenship for international travel.

Who Must Apply for a New Passport?

Use Form DS-11 and apply in person at an authorized location if any of these apply:

• You are applying for your first U.S. passport
• Your last passport was issued when you were under age 16
• Your passport expired more than 15 years ago
• Your passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
• You are not eligible to renew by mail

To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization

Step 1 — Complete Form DS-11

A new passport application requires Form DS-11. Fill it out online or print a PDF, but do not sign it until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent.

Step 2 — Gather Required Documents

When you file a new passport application, you will need to bring:

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Acceptable evidence includes:

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

Government-Issued Photo ID

Examples include:

• Driver’s license
• State ID card
• Military ID
  You’ll also need a photocopy of your ID to submit with your application.

One Passport Photo

Your photo must meet strict requirements (2×2 inches, color, white background, recent).

Step 3 — Submit Your Application in Person

You must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility to submit your new passport application. Accepted locations include:

• United States Postal Service offices offering passport services
• County clerk offices
• Public libraries
• Other government-authorized facilities

Acceptance agents will verify your identity, witness your signature, and send your application for processing.

Passport processing time varies depending on the service you choose:

• Routine processing: about 4 to 6 weeks
• Expedited service: typically 2 to 3 weeks
• Urgent travel: possibly within 14 days if you secure a passport agency appointment

Processing times may change due to seasonal demand or staffing. Always apply early if possible.

Passport Validity and Renewal

Once issued, a passport book is generally valid for:

• 10 years for applicants age 16 or older
• 5 years for minor applicants under 16

Routine renewals are done using Form DS-82 if you meet eligibility requirements.

Common Issues That Delay New Passport Applications

Missing or incorrect documents, invalid photos, unsigned forms, and incomplete ID copies are frequent causes of delays. Always double-check your materials before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions cover the most common concerns about applying for a new U.S. passport, including eligibility, required documents, processing times, fees, and where to apply. They are designed to give you quick, clear answers so you can prepare your application correctly and avoid delays.

Who must apply for a new U.S. passport?

Who must apply for a new U.S. passport?

You must apply for a new passport if it’s your first passport, it expired more than 15 years ago, you were under 16 when it was issued, or it was lost, stolen, or damaged.

Can I renew instead of applying for a new passport?

Form DS-11 is required for all new passport applications.

What form is required for a new passport?

Applications are submitted in person at authorized passport acceptance facilities, such as post offices, libraries, and county offices.

Do I sign Form DS-11 at home?

No. You must sign the DS-11 form in front of a passport acceptance agent when you submit your application.

Where do I submit my new passport application?

You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, courthouse, or public library that offers passport services.

What documents do I need for a new passport?

You need proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid government-issued photo ID, a photocopy of your ID, one passport photo, and a completed DS-11 form.

What can I use as proof of U.S. citizenship?

You may use a U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

How long does a new passport last?

Passports for adults (16 and older) last 10 years; for children under 16, they last 5 years.

How long does it take to get a new passport?

Routine processing usually takes about 4–6 weeks. Expedited service typically takes about 2–3 weeks. Urgent travel within 14 days may qualify for agency processing.

How much does a new passport cost?

Most applicants pay a passport application fee to the U.S. Department of State and a separate acceptance fee to the facility. Expedited processing costs extra.

What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

A passport book is valid for all international travel. A passport card is only valid for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

Do children have to apply in person?

Yes. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians.

Can I check the status of my new passport?

Yes. Once your application enters the system, you can track it online until it is approved and mailed.

How long before my status shows online?

It usually takes about two weeks after applying for your passport to appear in the tracking system.

What causes passport delays?

The most common delays are missing documents, incorrect photos, unsigned forms, or incomplete applications.