Requirements for Passport Application

The U.S. passport application process is simple, provided you are prepared with the proper documentation when you apply. By law, anyone who can prove his or her U.S. citizenship can apply for a passport.

Proof of Citizenship

Bring proof of U.S. citizenship. This includes a birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, report of birth abroad or certificate of citizenship.

Proof of ID

Proof of identity is required for a passport application. Your current passport or passport card, driver's license or picture ID, certificate of citizenship, certificate of naturalization or military ID is acceptable.

Photographs

Bring two identical color photographs of yourself taken within the past six months. These should measure two inches by two inches. They must show a clear shot of your face against a white or off-white background with no head covering or sunglasses, unless these are part of your daily attire for medical or religious reasons.

Application

Fill in the complete passport application and deliver it with the required documentation to the passport agency or acceptance facility in your area.

Fee

Passport applicants must pay a fee to receive their passport. As of 2009, the fee for a standard U.S. adult passport was $100 when applying in person, $75 when applying through the mail.

Applying in Person

First time applicants or applicants who are younger than 16 must apply for their U.S. passport in person. Also, applicants whose passports are more than 15 years old must apply in person.

References

• U.S. Passport Application
• Passport Requirements for U.S. Passports
• U.S. Passports

Resources

• How to Apply for a Passport for the First Time