Apply for Passport

You must apply for a passport in person if:

1. You are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time.

2. Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.

3. Your previous U.S. passport has expired & was issued more than 15 years ago.

4. Your previous passport has expired and it was issued when you were under 16.

5. Your name has changed since your passport was issued and you do not have a legal document formally changing your name.

To apply for a U.S. Passport in person you can go to any U.S. post office in town. You must bring the following items with you:

1. Application for passport, Form DS-11

- Form DS-11 can be downloaded from

2. Birth certificate

Note: If you do not have a birth certificate please visit Your birth certificate will be mailed back to you separate from your passport.

3. One of the following proofs of identity

A. previous U.S. passport

B. naturalization certificate

C. Current, valid driver's license, government ID, or military ID

4. Two passport photos

- Passport pictures must match very specific specifications so it is easiest to have an official passport photo taken. Most Walgreens stores take passport photos, or the Post Office can do it for a slightly higher charge.

5. The applicable payment

- As of August 2008 the cost is $100 for those age 16 and older or $85 for those under the age of 16.

- You may pay by credit or debit card, check (personal, certified, cashiers', travelers'), or money orders

6. Provide a Social Security Number

Renew Passport

In order to apply for a passport renewal you must meet all four of the following requirements:

1. You still have your most recent passport and it is not damaged

2. You received the passport within the past 15 years

3. You were over age 16 when it was issued

4. You have the same name as listed on your most recent passport or can legally document your name change

If you meet all four of these requirements then you may renew your passport by mail. In order to do so, you will need to:

1. Go to and follow the links to apply for/renew your passport..

2. Download and print the DS-82 form.

3. Carefully read and fill out the form.

4. Have a passport picture taken. Passport pictures must match very specific specifications so it is easiest to have an official passport photo taken. Most Walgreens stores take passport photos, or the Post Office can do it for a slightly higher charge.

5. Write a check for the passport renewal fee made out to “US Department of State.” As of July 2008 the fee is $75. If you are uncertain, you can go to to check the current fee.

6. In a padded envelope, include:

A. completed and signed DS-82 form, with one passport picture stapled as shown

Note: do not fold your DS-82 form

B. a second, identical passport photo (this is included with your passport photos)

C. your most recent passport (must be undamaged)

D. your check for passport renewal fee

7. Mail the envelope to: National Passport Processing Center

Post Office Box 90155

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

8. As of July 2008, the expected turnaround time for a passport renewal is four weeks.

NOTE: If your name has changed since your last passport was issued then you must also enclose a certified copy (no photocopies accepted) of the legal document specifying your name change. This means a marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption decree, or court order. If your name has changed by other means you must apply in person.

NOTE: There is expedited service available for passport renewals. Please go to to find out all the details.

Last Revised: Jan 2009