To apply for a passport, you must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or a qualifying U.S. non-citizen national. You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility for a new passport. The following are the requirements for a passport application:
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Proof of Citizenship: You need to provide a certified birth certificate from the country or state in which you were born, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship.
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Proof of Identity: You need to provide an acceptable photo ID. This can be a drivers license, a government employee ID, a U.S. military ID, or a U.S. passport.
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DS-11 Form: You need to complete a DS-11 application form. This form is available in person at the passport acceptance facility or online at the U.S. Department of State website.
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Passport Photos: You need to provide a qualifying photograph. This photo must be 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last six months, and have a white or off-white background.
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Payment: You need to provide two separate payments - one for the application fee and one for the execution fee. The passport acceptance facility where you submit your application will accept your fees. You must pay the application fee by check or money order. You can pay the execution fee by money order, check, or credit card depending on the facility, so check ahead of time to find out which payments they will accept at yours.
