The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form serves as the primary document required for citizens applying for a U.S. passport for the first time. It is used to gather essential information from the applicant to establish eligibility for an American passport. For those ready to embark on international travel, begin your journey by filling out the DS-11 form by clicking the button below.
Embarking on a journey abroad starts with one crucial step: obtaining a U.S. passport. At the heart of this process is the DS-11 U.S. Passport Application Form, designed for first-time applicants, minors, and individuals not eligible to use the simpler renewal form. This document captures a range of personal details, from your full name and birthplace to residence and parental information, ensuring that your identity can be accurately verified and your passport accurately reflects who you are. Navigating through the DS-11 form may seem daunting at first glance, given its comprehensive nature and the importance of precision in filling it out. However, understanding its structure and the required documentation that accompanies it – such as proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid form of identification, and a recent photo that meets strict guidelines – can simplify the process. The form serves as the first step towards international travel, opening up a world of opportunities for exploration, learning, and experience beyond the U.S. borders.
U.S. PASSPORT APPLICATION
PLEASE DETACH AND RETAIN THIS INSTRUCTION SHEET FOR YOUR RECORDS
FOR INFORMATION AND QUESTIONS
Visit the official Department of State website at travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) via toll-free at 1-877-487-2778 (TDD: 1-888-874-7793) and NPIC@state.gov. Customer Service Representatives are available Monday-Friday 8:00a.m.-10:00p.m. Eastern Time (excluding federal holidays). Automated information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
WHAT TO SUBMIT WITH THIS FORM:
1.PROOF OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP: Evidence of U.S. citizenship AND a photocopy of the front (and back, if there is printed information) must be submitted with your application. The photocopy must be on 8 ½ inch by 11 inch paper, black and white ink, legible, and clear. Evidence that is not damaged, altered, or forged will be returned to you. Note: Lawful permanent resident cards submitted with this application will be forwarded to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, if we determine that you are a U.S. citizen.
2.PROOF OF IDENTITY: You must present your original identification AND submit a photocopy of the front and back with your passport application.
3.RECENT COLOR PHOTOGRAPH: Photograph must meet passport requirements – full front view of the face and 2x2 inches in size.
4.FEES: Please visit our website at travel.state.gov for current fees.
HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM:
Complete and submit this application in person to a designated acceptance agent: a clerk of a federal or state court of record or a judge or clerk of a probate court accepting applications; a designated municipal or county official; a designated postal employee at an authorized post office; an agent at a passport agency (by appointment only); or a U.S. consular official at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, if abroad. To find your nearest acceptance facility, visit travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Follow the instructions on Page 2 for detailed information to completion and submission of this form.
REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN
AS DIRECTED BY PUBLIC LAW 106-113 AND 22 CFR 51.28:
To submit an application for a child under age 16 both parents or the child's legal guardian(s) must appear and present the following:
-Evidence of the child's U.S. citizenship;
-Evidence of the child's relationship to parents/guardian(s); AND
-Original parental/guardian government-issued identification AND a photocopy of the front and back side of presented identification.
IF ONLY ONE PARENT APPEARS, YOU MUST ALSO SUBMIT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
-Second parent's notarized written statement or DS-3053 (including the child's full name and date of birth) consenting to the passport issuance for the child. The notarized statement cannot be more than three months old and must be signed and notarized on the same day, and must come with a photocopy of the front and back side of the second parent's government-issued photo identification; OR
-Second parent’s death certificate if second parent is deceased; OR
-Primary evidence of sole authority to apply, such as a court order; OR
-A written statement or DS-5525 (made under penalty of perjury) explaining in detail the second parent's unavailability.
AS DIRECTED BY REGULATION 22 C.F.R. 51.21 AND 51.28:
- Each minor child applying for a U.S. passport book and/or passport card must appear in person.
PASSPORT VALIDITY LENGTH
If you are 16 years of age or older: Your U.S. passport will be valid for 10 years from the date of issue except where limited by the Secretary of State to a shorter period.
If you are under 16 years of age: Your U.S. passport will be valid for five years from the date of issue except where limited by the Secretary of State to a shorter period.
APPLICANTS WHO HAVE HAD A PREVIOUS U.S. PASSPORT BOOK AND/OR PASSPORT CARD
LOST OR STOLEN - If you cannot submit your valid or potentially valid U.S. passport book and/or passport card with this application and you have not previously submitted Form DS-64, Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport, you are required to fill out and submit a DS-64 with this application.
IN MY POSSESSION - If your most recent U.S.passport book and/or passport card was issued less than 15 years ago, and you were over the age of 16 at the time of issuance, you may be eligible to use Form DS-82 to renew your passport by mail.
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.
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 imprisonment under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. The use of a passport in violation of the restrictions contained herein or of the passport regulations is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1544. All statements and documents are subject to verification.
DS-11 06-2016
Instruction Page 1 of 4
PROOF OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP
APPLICANTS BORN IN THE UNITED STATES: Submit a previous U.S. passport or certified birth certificate. Passports that are limited in validity will need to be supplemented by other evidence. A birth certificate must include your full name, date and place of birth, sex, date the birth record was filed, the seal or other certification of the official custodian of such records (state, county, or city/town office), and the full names of your parent(s).
-If the birth certificate was filed more than 1 year after the birth: It must be supported by evidence described in the next paragraph.
-If no birth record exists: Submit a registrar's notice to that effect. Also, submit a combination of the evidence listed below, which should include your given name and surname, date and/or place of birth, and the seal or other certification of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing official.
A hospital birth record;
An early baptismal or circumcision certificate;
Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records;
Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as a newspaper article); and
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.
APPLICANTS BORN OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES: Submit a previous U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or evidence described below:
-If you claim citizenship through naturalization of parent(s): Submit the Certificate(s) of Naturalization of your parent(s), your foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the document is not in English), proof of your admission to the United States for permanent residence, and your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evidence that you were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen parent, if applicable.
-If you claim citizenship through birth abroad to at least one U.S. citizen parent: Submit a Consular Report of Birth (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), proof of U.S. citizenship of your parent, your parents' marriage certificate, and an affidavit showing all of your U.S. citizen parents' periods and places of residence/physical presence in the United States and abroad before your birth.
-If you claim citizenship through adoption by a U.S. citizen parent(s): Submit evidence of your permanent residence status, full and final adoption, and your U.S. citizen parent(s) evidence of legal and physical custody. (NOTE: Acquisition of U.S. citizenship for persons born abroad and adopted only applies if the applicant was born on or after 02/28/1983.)
ADDITIONAL EVIDENCE: You must establish your citizenship to the satisfaction of the acceptance agent and Passport Services. We may ask you to provide additional evidence to establish your claim to U.S. citizenship. Visit travel.state.gov for details.
PROOF OF IDENTITY
You may submit items such as the following containing your signature AND a photograph that is a good likeness of you: previous or current U.S. passport book; previous or current U.S. passport card; driver's license (not temporary or learner's license); Certificate of Naturalization; Certificate of Citizenship; military identification; or federal, state, or municipal government employee identification card. Temporary or altered documents are not acceptable.
You must establish your identity to the satisfaction of the acceptance agent and Passport Services. We may ask you to provide additional evidence to establish your identity. If you have changed your name, please see travel.state.gov for instructions.
IF YOU CANNOT PROVIDE DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF IDENTITY as stated above, you must appear with an IDENTIFYING WITNESS, who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen U.S. national, or permanent resident alien that has known you for at least two years. Your witness must prove his or her identity and complete and sign an Affidavit of Identifying Witness (Form DS-71) before the acceptance agent. You must also submit some identification of your own.
COLOR PHOTOGRAPH
Submit a color photograph of you alone, sufficiently recent to be a good likeness of you (taken within the last six months), and 2x2 inches in size. The image size measured from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head (including hair) should not be less than 1 inch, and not more than 1 3/8 inches. The photograph must be in color, clear, with a full front view of your face. The photograph must be taken with a neutral facial expression (preferred) or a natural smile, and with both eyes open and be printed on photo quality paper with a plain light (white or off-white) background. The photograph must be taken in normal street attire, without a hat, or head covering unless a signed statement is submitted by the applicant verifying that the hat or head covering is part of recognized, traditional religious attire that is customarily or required to be worn continuously when in public or a signed doctor's statement is submitted verifying the item is used daily for medical purposes. Headphones, "bluetooth", or similar devices must not be worn in the passport photograph. Glasses or other eyewear are not acceptable unless you provide a signed statement from a doctor explaining why you cannot remove them due to medical reasons (e.g., during the recovery period from eye surgery). Any photograph retouched so that your appearance is changed is unacceptable. A snapshot, most vending machine prints, hand-held self portraits, and magazine or full-length photographs are unacceptable. A digital photo must meet the previously stated qualifications, and will be accepted for use at the discretion of Passport Services. Visit our website at travel.state.gov for details and information.
FEES
FEES ARE LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV. BY LAW, THE PASSPORT FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
The passport application fee, security surcharge, and expedite fee may be paid in any of the following forms: Checks (personal, certified, or traveler's) with the applicant's full name and date of birth printed on the front; major credit card (Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover); bank draft or cashier's check; money order (U.S. Postal, international, currency exchange), or if abroad, the foreign currency equivalent, or a check drawn on a U.S. bank. All fees should be payable to the "U.S. Department of State" or if abroad, the appropriate U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate. When applying at a designated acceptance facility, the execution fee will be paid separately and should be made payable to the acceptance facility. NOTE: Some designated acceptance facilities do not accept credit cards as a form of payment.
For faster processing, you may request expedited service. Please include the expedite fee in your payment. Our website contains updated information regarding fees and processing times for expedited service. Expedited service is only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.
OVERNIGHT DELIVERY SERVICE is only available for passport book mailings in the United States. Please include the appropriate fee with your payment.
An additional fee will be charged when, upon your request, the U.S. Department of State verifies issuance of a previous U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad because you are unable to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship.
For applicants with U.S. government or military authorization for no-fee passports, no fees are charged except the execution fee when applying at a designated acceptance facility.
Instruction Page 2 of 4
NOTE REGARDING MAILING OF YOUR PASSPORT(S)
Passport Services will not mail a U.S. passport to a private address outside the United States or Canada. If you do not live at the address listed in the "mailing address", then you must put the name of the person and mark it as "In Care Of" in item # 8. If your mailing address changes prior to receipt of your new passport, please contact the National Passport Information Center.
If you choose to provide your email address in Item #6 on this application, Passport Services may use that information to contact you in the event there is a problem with your application or if you need to provide information to us.
You may receive your newly issued passport book and/or card and your returned citizenship evidence in two separate mailings. If you are applying for both a U.S. passport book and passport card, you may receive three separate mailings; one with your returned citizenship evidence, one with your newly issued passport book, and one with your newly issued passport card.
FEDERAL TAX LAW
Section 6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E) and 22 U.S.C 2714a(f) require you to provide your Social Security number (SSN), if you have one, when you apply for or renew a U.S. passport. If you have never been issued a SSN, you must enter zeros in box #5 of this form. If you are residing abroad, you must also provide the name of the foreign country in which you are residing. The U.S. Department of State must provide your SSN and foreign residence information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury. If you fail to provide the information, your application may be denied and you are subject to a $500 penalty enforced by the IRS. All questions on this matter should be referred to the nearest IRS office.
NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS APPLYING OUTSIDE A DEPARTMENT OF STATE FACILITY
If you send us a check, it will be converted into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually occur within 24 hours and will be shown on your regular account statement.
You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but we will keep the copy of it. If the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient funds, we may try to make the transfer up to two times, and we will charge you a one-time fee of $25, which we will also collect by EFT.
FEE REMITTANCE
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. If the Department fails to receive full payment of the applicable fees because, for example, your check is returned for any reason or you dispute a passport fee charge to your credit card, the U.S. Department of State will take action to collect the delinquent fees from you under 22 C.F.R. Part 34, and the Federal Claims Collection Standards (see 31 C.F.R. Parts 900-904). In accordance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act (Pub.L. 104-134), if the fees remain unpaid after 180 days and no repayment arrangements have been made, the Department will refer the debt to the U.S. Department of Treasury for collection. Debt collection procedures used by U.S. Department of Treasury may include referral of the debt to private collection agencies, reporting of the debt to credit bureaus, garnishment of private wages and administrative offset of the debt by reducing, or withholding eligible federal payments (e.g., tax refunds, social security payments, federal retirement, etc.) by the amount of your debt, including any interest penalties or other costs incurred. In addition, non-payment of passport fees may result in the invalidation of your passport. An invalidated passport cannot be used for travel.
USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
Your Social Security number will be provided to U.S. Department of Treasury, used in connection with debt collection and checked against lists of persons ineligible or potentially ineligible to receive a U.S. passport, among other authorized uses.
NOTICE TO APPLICANTS FOR OFFICIAL, DIPLOMATIC, OR NO-FEE PASSPORTS
You may use this application if you meet all of the provisions listed on Instruction Page 2; 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 for forwarding to you.
PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST IDENTITY THEFT!
REPORT YOUR LOST OR STOLEN PASSPORT BOOK OR PASSPORT CARD!
For more information regarding reporting a lost or stolen U.S. passport book or passport card (Form DS-64), or to determine your eligibility for a passport renewal (Form DS-82), call NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 or visit travel.state.gov.
NOTICE TO U.S. PASSPORT CARD APPLICANTS
The maximum number of letters provided for your given name (first and middle) on the U.S. passport card is 24 characters. The 24 characters may be shortened due to printing restrictions. If both your given names are more than 24 characters, you must shorten one of your given names you list on item 1 of this form.
U.S. passports, either in book or card format, are only issued to U.S. citizens or non-citizen U.S. nationals. Each person must obtain his or her own U.S. passport book or U.S. passport card. The passport card is a U.S. passport issued in card format. Like the traditional U.S. passport book, it reflects the bearer's origin, identity, and nationality, and is subject to existing passport laws and regulations. Unlike the U.S. passport book, the U.S. passport card is valid only for entry at land border crossings and sea ports of entry when traveling from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The U.S. passport card is not valid for international air travel.
Instruction Page 3 of 4
ELECTRONIC PASSPORT STATEMENT
The U.S. Department of State now issues an "Electronic Passport" book, which contains an embedded electronic chip. The electronic passport book continues to be proof of the bearer's U.S. citizenship/nationality and identity, and looks and functions in the same way as a passport without a chip. The addition of an electronic chip in the back cover enables the passport book to carry a duplicate electronic copy of all information from the data page. The electronic passport book is usable at all ports-of-entry, including those that do not yet have electronic chip readers.
Use of the electronic format provides the traveler the additional security protections inherent in chip technology. Moreover, when used at ports-of-entry equipped with electronic chip readers, the electronic passport book provides for faster clearance through some of the port-of-entry processes.
The electronic passport book does not require special handling or treatment, but like previous versions should be protected from extreme heat, bending, and from immersion in water. The electronic chip must be read using specially formatted readers, which protects the data on the chip from unauthorized reading.
The cover of the electronic passport book is printed with a special symbol representing the embedded chip. The symbol port-of-entry areas where the electronic passport book can be read.
will appear in
ACTS OR CONDITIONS
If any of the below-mentioned acts or conditions have been performed by or apply to the applicant, the portion which applies should be lined out, and a supplementary explanatory statement under oath (or affirmation) by the applicant should be attached and made a part of this application.
I have not, since acquiring United States citizenship/nationality, been naturalized as a citizen of a foreign state; taken an oath or made an affirmation or other formal declaration of allegiance to a foreign state; entered or served in the armed forces of a foreign state; accepted or performed the duties of any office, post, or employment under the government of a foreign state or political subdivision thereof; made a formal renunciation of nationality either in the United States, or before a diplomatic or consular officer of the United States in a foreign state; or been convicted by a court or court martial of competent jurisdiction of committing any act of treason against, or attempting by force to overthrow, or bearing arms against, the United States, or conspiring to overthrow, put down, or to destroy by force, the government of the United States.
Furthermore, I have not been convicted of a federal or state drug offense or convicted of a "sex tourism" crimes statute, 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; a subpoena received from the United States in a matter involving federal prosecution for, or grand jury investigation of, a felony.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITIES: Collection of this information is authorized by 22 U.S.C. 211a 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; Executive 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 agency, 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, employment verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation activities, and activities that meet the Secretary of State's responsibility to protect U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals abroad. More information on the Routine Uses for the system can be found in System of Records Notices State-05, Overseas Citizen Services Records and State-26, Passport Records.
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 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 a penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service, as described in the Federal Tax Law section of the instructions to this form. Your Social Security number will be provided to the Department of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collection, among other purposes authorized and generally described in this section.
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: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Legal Affairs and Law Enforcement Liaison, 44132 Mercure Cir, P.O. Box 1227, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1227
Instruction Page 4 of 4
APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT
OMB CONTROL NO.: 1405-0004
Please Print Legibly Using Black Ink Only
OMB EXPIRATION DATE: 11-30-2020
ESTIMATED BURDEN: 85 MIN
Attention: Read WARNING on page 1 of instructions
Please select the document(s) for which you are applying:
U.S. Passport Book
U.S. Passport Card
Both
The U.S. passport card is not valid for international air travel. For more information see page 1 of instructions.
Regular Book (Standard)
Large Book (Non-Standard)
Note: The large book option is for those who frequently travel abroad during the passport validity period, and is
recommended for applicants who have previously required the addition of visa pages.
1. Name Last
D
DOTS
O
Dep
End. #
Exp.
First
Middle
2. Date of Birth
(mm/dd/yyyy)
3.
Sex
4. Place of Birth (City & State if in the U.S., or City & Country as it is presently known.)
-
M
F
5. Social Security Number
6. Email (Info alerts offered at travel.state.gov)
7. Primary Contact Phone Number
@
8.Mailing Address: Line 1: Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB.
Address Line 2: Clearly label Apartment, Company, Suite, Unit, Building, Floor, In Care Of or Attention if applicable. (e.g., In Care Of - Jane Doe, Apt # 100)
City
State
Zip Code
Country, if outside the United States
9.List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change. Attach additional pages if needed)
A.
B.
STAPLE 2" x 2" STAPLE
Attach a color photograph
taken within the last six months
STOP! CONTINUE TO PAGE 2
DO NOT SIGN APPLICATION UNTIL REQUESTED TO DO SO BY AUTHORIZED AGENT
Identifying Documents - Applicant or Mother/Father/Parent on Second Signature Line (if identifying minor)
Driver's License
State Issued ID Card
Passport
Military
Other
Name
Issue Date
Exp. Date
State of
Issuance
ID No
Country of
Identifying Documents - Applicant or Mother/Father/Parent on Third Signature Line (if identifying minor)
Acceptance Agent
(Vice) Consul USA
Passport Staff Agent
I declare under penalty of perjury all of the following: 1) I am a citizen or non-citizen national of the United States and have not, since acquiring U.S. citizenship or nationality, performed any of the acts listed under "Acts or Conditions" on
(Seal)page four of the instructions of this application (unless explanatory statement is attached); 2) the statements made on the application are true and correct; 3) I have not knowingly and willfully made false statements or included false documents in support of this application; 4) the photograph attached to this application is a genuine, current photograph of me; and 5) I have read and understood the warning on page one of the instructions to the application form.
Name of courier company (if applicable)
Facility Name/Location
Facility ID Number
Agent ID Number
x
Applicant's Legal Signature - age 16 and older
Mother/Father/Parent/Legal Guardian's Signature (if identifying minor)
Signature of person authorized to accept applications
Date
For Issuing Office Only
Bk
Card
EF
Postage
Execution
* DS 11 C 09 2013 1 *
Page 1 of 2
Name of Applicant (Last, First, & Middle)
10.Parental Information Mother/Father/Parent - First & Middle Name
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
Place of Birth
Mother/Father/Parent - First & Middle Name
11. Have
you ever been married?
Yes
No
Full Name of Current Spouse or Most Recent Spouse
Last Name (at Parent's Birth)
U.S. Citizen?
Male
Female
If yes, complete the remaining items in #11.
U.S. Citizen? Date of Marriage
Yes No (mm/dd/yyyy)
12.Additional Contact Phone Number
- -
15. Height 16. Hair Color 17. Eye Color
Have you ever been widowed or divorced? Widow/Divorce Date
13.Occupation (if age 16 or older) 14. Employer or School (if applicable)
Home
Cell
Work
18. Travel Plans
Countries to be Visited
Departure Date (mm/dd/yyyy) Return Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
19.Permanent Address - If P.O. Box is listed under Mailing Address or if residence is different from Mailing Address.
Street/RFD # or URB (No P.O. Box)
Apartment/Unit
20.Emergency Contact - Provide the information of a person not traveling with you to be contacted in the event of an emergency.
Address: Street/RFD # or P.O. Box
State Zip Code
Phone Number
Relationship
21. Have you ever applied for or been issued a U.S. Passport Book or Passport Card?
No If yes, complete the remaining items in #21.
Name as printed on your most recent passport book
Most recent passport book number
Most recent passport book issue date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Status of your most recent passport book:
Submitting with application
Stolen
Lost
In my possession (if expired)
Most recent passport card number
Most recent passport card issue date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Name as printed on your most recent passport card
Status of your most recent passport card:
PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - FOR ISSUING OFFICE ONLY
Name as it appears on citizenship evidence
Birth Certificate
SR
CR
Filed:
Issued:
Nat. / Citz. Cert.
USCIS USDC
Date/Place Acquired:
A#
Report of Birth
Filed/Place:
Passport C/R
S/R
Per PIERS #/DOI:
Other:
Attached:
P/C of Citz P/C of ID DS-71 DS-3053 DS-64 DS-5520 DS-5525 PAW NPIC IRL Citz W/S
* DS 11 C 09 2013 2 *
Page 2 of 2
Applying for a U.S. passport for the first time is a big step towards an exciting journey, be it for travel, work, or study abroad. The key to a smooth application process is accurately completing the DS-11 form. This document is your primary application for a U.S. passport, so it’s important to fill it out carefully and correctly. From providing personal information to ensuring all required documents are prepared, let's walk through the steps to complete your DS-11 form without any hassles.
With your DS-11 form carefully filled out and all the required documents in hand, you're well on your way to receiving your U.S. passport. Remember to apply well in advance of any planned travel to ensure your passport arrives in time. Safe travels!
Who needs to complete the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form?
The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is required for first-time applicants, those who are not eligible to renew their passport using form DS-82, children under 16, and applicants 16-17 who may not be eligible to apply by mail. Essentially, if you're applying for your first passport, replacing a lost or stolen one, or changing personal details on your current passport, the DS-11 is the form you need to start with.
Can I submit the DS-11 form online?
While you can fill out the DS-11 form online via the U.S. Department of State's website, it must be printed and submitted in person. You cannot submit the form entirely online. The online form is designed to guide you through the application process, ensuring all necessary information is provided before you visit a passport acceptance facility or agency.
What documents are necessary to accompany the DS-11 form?
When submitting the DS-11 form, you'll need proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, one passport photo, and the applicable fees. Proof of citizenship can be a previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad or birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a certificate of citizenship. Proof of identity could be a valid driver's license, a government ID, or a military ID. Copies of identity documents may also be required.
How long does the process take after submitting the DS-11 form?
Standard processing times can vary, but generally, you should expect to receive your passport 10-12 weeks after submitting the properly filled out DS-11 form and necessary documents. Expedited services are available for an additional fee, which could reduce the processing time to 4-6 weeks. Always check the most current processing times on the U.S Department of State's website, as these times can change.
Are there any fees associated with the DS-11 U.S. Passport application?
Yes, applying for a U.S. Passport with the DS-11 form does involve paying fees, which vary depending on the type of passport you're applying for (passport book, passport card, or both) and the service (standard or expedited). There are also additional fees for optional services such as overnight delivery. The U.S. Department of State's website provides a detailed schedule of fees.
What if I make a mistake on my DS-11 form?
If you make a mistake while filling out your DS-11 form, it’s best to start over with a new form to ensure all information is correct. Small errors can lead to delays in processing. If you've already submitted the form and then notice the error, you should contact the National Passport Information Center or visit a passport acceptance facility or agency as soon as possible to find out the best course of action.
Can I use the DS-11 form to renew my passport?
Generally, the DS-11 form is not used for renewing a passport. Most adults renewing their passport would use the DS-82 form if their current passport is undamaged, was issued when they were age 16 or older, and was issued within the last 15 years under the same name or they can legally document the name change. However, if your previous passport is not available or does not meet these criteria, you may need to use the DS-11 form and apply in person as if it was your first application.
Applying for a U.S. Passport should be an exciting moment, marking the beginning of a new adventure abroad. However, mistakes on the DS-11 Application Form can lead to delays and even denials. Being aware of common errors can help ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are six common mistakes people make when filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport Application Form:
Not using black ink: The form must be completed in black ink. Using other colors can cause processing issues and potentially delay the application.
Signing the form too early: The DS-11 form should only be signed in the presence of a passport acceptance agent or authorized representative. Early signatures can invalidate the application, requiring a new form and causing delays.
Entering incorrect information: Even small mistakes in personal details like the spelling of names, dates, or Social Security numbers can cause significant delays. Ensure all information is accurate and matches legal documents exactly.
Leaving sections blank: Every part of the DS-11 form must be completed. If a section does not apply, entering "N/A" or "None" where appropriate is better than leaving it blank.
Forgetting to include necessary documents: A common oversight is neglecting to attach required documentation such as evidence of U.S. citizenship, a valid ID, and a passport photo that meets the criteria. Failure to include these can result in the rejection of your application.
Using an incorrect form: The DS-11 form is specifically for first-time applicants, minors under 16, or applicants who do not meet the criteria to use the DS-82 form for renewals. Using the wrong form can result in processing delays.
Avoiding these mistakes can help pave the way for a smoother passport application process. Always double-check the U.S. Department of State's website for the most current information and detailed instructions when applying for or renewing a U.S. passport.
When applying for a U.S. passport using the DS-11 form, applicants often need to submit additional documents. These essential forms and documents help verify one’s identity, citizenship, and entitlement to a U.S. passport, covering various aspects of the required information. Understanding these documents can simplify the application process.
Collecting and preparing these documents can be seen as the groundwork for a successful passport application process. The U.S. Department of State has set clear guidelines for each necessary document with the aim of making the application process as fluid as possible. An accurate understanding and thorough preparation of these additional documents, in conjunction with the DS-11 form, pave the way toward a hassle-free application.
Driver’s License Application: Just like the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, applying for a driver's license requires proof of identity, address, and legal status. Both processes necessitate providing a social security number and may require additional documentation for first-time applicants to verify their eligibility.
Social Security Card Application (Form SS-5): Similar to the DS-11 form, the SS-5 form for obtaining a social security card demands detailed personal information, verification of citizenship or legal residency, and identification documentation. Both are fundamental in establishing one’s identity within the US.
Voter Registration Form: This form, though simpler, shares the DS-11's goal of verifying a citizen's identity and eligibility. Both require personal information, albeit the voter registration process is generally less stringent about proof of identity compared to the passport application process.
Birth Certificate Request Form: Applying for a birth certificate, much like applying for a passport with the DS-11, necessitates the provision of personal details and evidence of identity. It is also a common document required as proof of citizenship when completing the DS-11 form.
Naturalization or Citizenship Application (Form N-400): Both the DS-11 passport application and the N-400 involve an extensive process to verify identity and eligibility, submission of biographic information, and legal documentation proving status. Both serve as pivotal steps in affirming one’s citizenship rights and responsibilities.
Visa Application Forms: Similar to the passport application, visa applications entail a detailed gathering of personal and biographical information, proof of legal residency or citizenship, and purpose of travel. Both are critical in facilitating international travel, albeit serving different countries’ entrance requirements.
Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form correctly is crucial to ensure a smooth process in obtaining your U.S. passport. To help you navigate the process, here are some dos and don'ts:
Do:
Don't:
Many people have misconceptions about the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form. Understanding these misconceptions can make the process smoother and less daunting.
All information must be filled out before going to the passport acceptance facility. Although it's important to have all required information ready, some sections of the DS-11 form, such as the oath and signatures, must be completed in the presence of a passport acceptance agent or consular officer.
You can renew your passport using the DS-11 form. The DS-11 form is only for first-time applicants, minors under 16, applicants who were minors at their last issuance, and those who have lost their passport or had it stolen. Renewals for adults with a passport issued in the past 15 years when they were aged 16 or older should use the DS-82 form.
The DS-11 form can be submitted online. While the form can be filled out online, it must be printed and submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility or a U.S. Embassy or consulate if applying from abroad.
If you make a mistake on the form, you must start over with a new form. Minor mistakes can often be corrected according to the instructions of the passport acceptance agent. Always consult with an agent before starting a new form.
The passport photo can be casually taken at home. Passport photos have specific requirements regarding size, background, appearance, and quality. It's recommended to have them taken professionally or to carefully follow the U.S. Department of State's photo requirements if taking them at home.
You need your birth certificate to submit the DS-11 form. While a birth certificate is a common and preferred form of proof of citizenship, there are alternatives such as a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Naturalization Certificate for those who do not have a birth certificate.
Everyone must apply in person. First-time applicants, minors, and individuals who do not meet the renewal criteria must apply in person. However, certain renewals can be done by mail.
Passport fees can be paid with any payment method. Payment methods for passport fees vary depending on where you are applying. Domestic facilities often accept checks and money orders, but not always credit cards. It's essential to verify accepted payment methods with the specific facility ahead of time.
The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is the gateway for U.S. citizens to obtain a passport for the first time or for those who are ineligible to use the simpler renewal form, DS-82. It is essential to approach this task carefully, accurately, and with a thorough understanding of the process to ensure a smooth application. Here are four key takeaways to guide you through the submission of the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form:
Navigating through the DS-11 U.S. Passport application process can be daunting, but with careful preparation and understanding of these key aspects, applicants can ensure a smoother process and avoid common pitfalls that may delay the issuance of their passport.
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