United StatesGuideNo. DS-82
DS-82 — U.S. Passport Renewal Application
To renew an adult passport by mail, if you meet the conditions.
Civil statusView guide
U.S. Department of State (passports)Civil statusGuide
DS-11 — Application for a U.S. Passport
For a first passport, a child's passport, or when you can't renew by mail.
The form is downloaded and submitted on the authority's website.
What this form is for
Apply for a US passport in person: first passport, child under 16, or a previous passport that was lost, stolen or issued too long ago.
Documents to have ready
- Proof of US citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
- Photo ID
- A recent passport photo
Where to send it
The DS-11 isn't mailed: you take it, unsigned, to an acceptance facility (often a post office).
Our tips
- Always download the latest version from the official site: federal forms are updated regularly.
- Read the official instructions that come with the form before you start.
- Keep a copy of everything you send, with the date you sent it.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I sign the DS-11 in advance?
- No. You sign it in front of the acceptance agent.
The information on this page is general. If in doubt, the official source prevails.