For a first-time U.S. passport application, applicants must submit proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or a previous U.S. passport. A valid government-issued photo identification, like a driver's license, is required to verify identity. Additionally, applicants need to provide a completed Form DS-11, a passport photo that meets specific requirements, and the applicable fees.
What Documents are Needed for a First-Time U.S. Passport Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Primary Evidence of U.S. Citizenship | Primary evidence of U.S. citizenship required for a first-time passport application includes an original or certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state, which clearly shows the applicant's full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parent(s)' full names. Alternatively, a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization may also serve as acceptable proof of citizenship. |
| 2 | DS-11 Application Form | The DS-11 Application Form is essential for first-time U.S. passport applicants and must be completed accurately without signatures until instructed by a passport acceptance agent. Applicants are required to submit proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate, alongside valid photo identification and a passport photo that meets government specifications. |
| 3 | Photographic Identity Proof | Photographic identity proof for a first-time U.S. passport application typically requires a government-issued photo ID such as a valid driver's license or state ID card, which verifies the applicant's identity and citizenship. If no government-issued ID is available, secondary identification like a school ID, employee ID, or military ID, accompanied by proof of citizenship, may be submitted to satisfy the passport application requirements. |
| 4 | Parental Relationship Documentation | Proof of parental relationship is required for first-time U.S. passport applications for minors under 16, typically demonstrated by a certified birth certificate listing both parents' names or a court order establishing custody. In cases where one parent cannot be present, notarized consent forms or additional legal documents may be necessary to verify parental authorization. |
| 5 | Passport Photo Compliance | A first-time U.S. passport application requires a passport photo that meets specific compliance standards, including a 2x2 inch size, a clear, full-face view with a neutral expression, and a plain white or off-white background. Photos must be recent, taken within the last six months, printed on high-quality photo paper, and free from shadows, reflections, or alterations to ensure acceptance by the U.S. Department of State. |
| 6 | Certified Long-Form Birth Certificate | A certified long-form birth certificate is a crucial document required for a first-time U.S. passport application, providing official proof of U.S. citizenship and identity with detailed parental information. This document must be issued by the city, county, or state vital records office and include a raised seal or stamp to meet Department of State requirements. |
| 7 | Secondary Identification Documentation | Secondary identification documentation for a first-time U.S. passport application typically includes a valid driver's license, military ID, or government employee ID, which serves to further verify the applicant's identity. Additional acceptable documents may include a student ID or a recent utility bill with the applicant's name and address to support the primary identification. |
| 8 | Social Security Number Declaration | Applicants for a first-time U.S. passport must provide a completed Social Security Number Declaration, typically by submitting Form DS-11, which includes their Social Security number or a signed statement confirming its non-issuance. This declaration ensures compliance with U.S. Department of State requirements and aids in identity verification and record matching. |
| 9 | Proof of Name Change Legalization | To validate a legal name change for a first-time U.S. passport application, submit an original or certified copy of a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree as proof of name change legalization. These documents must clearly display the applicant's previous and new names to ensure accurate identity verification. |
| 10 | In-Person Submission Verification | Applicants must present proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate, alongside a valid government-issued photo ID during the in-person submission for a first-time U.S. passport application. The acceptance agent verifies original documents and collects a completed DS-11 application form, passport photo, and applicable fees to ensure compliance with passport issuance requirements. |
Introduction to First-Time U.S. Passport Applications
Applying for a first-time U.S. passport requires specific documentation to verify identity and citizenship. Essential documents include proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid form of photo identification, and a completed passport application form. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth and efficient application process for your first U.S. passport.
Eligibility Criteria for New Passport Applicants
Applying for a first-time U.S. passport requires meeting specific eligibility criteria to ensure the applicant's identity and citizenship status. Proper documentation is essential to verify these requirements accurately.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship - Applicants must provide an original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport as evidence of citizenship.
- Proof of Identity - A valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, military ID, or state-issued identification card is required to confirm the applicant's identity.
- Parental Consent for Minors - Applicants under the age of 16 must present parental or legal guardian consent along with required documentation to comply with age-related eligibility rules.
Primary Identification Documents Required
Applying for a first-time U.S. passport requires presenting primary identification documents that verify your identity and citizenship. The most common document is a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state of birth.
You must also provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or military ID, to establish identity. These documents must be original or certified copies and cannot be photocopies or notarized copies.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Accepted Evidence
Applying for a first-time U.S. passport requires specific documents to prove U.S. citizenship. Proper evidence ensures the application meets government standards for issuance.
- U.S. Birth Certificate - A certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state vital records office serves as primary proof of citizenship.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) - Issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate, this document verifies citizenship for children born outside the United States to American parents.
- Naturalization Certificate - This certificate confirms citizenship for individuals who became U.S. citizens through the naturalization process.
Submitting any one of these accepted documents validates U.S. citizenship for first-time passport applicants.
Passport Application Form: Which One to Use
| Document | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Application Form | The essential form to initiate the U.S. passport application process for first-time applicants. |
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Passport Photo Requirements and Specifications
Applying for a first-time U.S. passport requires submitting a passport photo that meets specific government standards. These requirements ensure the photo is suitable for identification and processing by the Department of State.
- Photo Size - The passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in dimension, capturing the full head from the bottom of the chin to the top of the hair.
- Background - The photo background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible behind the subject.
- Head Position and Expression - The applicant must face the camera directly with a neutral facial expression, both eyes open, and mouth closed without smiling.
Parental Consent Documents for Minors
Parental consent documents are essential for minors applying for a first-time U.S. passport. These documents verify that both parents or guardians agree to the passport issuance.
Applicants under 16 must provide parental consent through Form DS-11, signed by both parents or legal guardians. If one parent cannot be present, a notarized Form DS-3053 must be submitted with the application. Proof of relationship, such as a birth certificate, supports the consent documents and confirms the minor's identity.
Supporting Documents for Name Change Cases
What supporting documents are required for a name change in a first-time U.S. passport application? You must provide legal evidence of your name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. These documents confirm your identity and ensure your passport reflects your current legal name.
Submission Process: Where and How to Apply
First-time U.S. passport applicants must submit their documents in person at authorized acceptance facilities, such as post offices, public libraries, or county clerk offices. The applicant should complete Form DS-11 and provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo ID, a passport photo, and applicable fees. Scheduling an appointment is often required, and applicants must bring all original documents for verification during the submission process.
What Documents are Needed for a First-Time U.S. Passport Application? Infographic
