First-time Passport

• 1). Fill out Form DS-11. Do not sign the form. The form can be obtained at your local post office, passport agency or online at travel.state.gov. Please see Resources for the link.
  
  
• 2). Get a passport photo taken. Photos can be obtained at most post offices, photo studios or drugstores such as Walgreens or CVS.
  
  
• 3). Submit the completed form in person at your local passport agency.
  
  
• 4). Provide identification and proof of citizenship to the acceptance agent. Acceptable forms of citizenship proof include a current passport, certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship. Acceptable identification includes a current passport, naturalization certificate, valid driver's license or a current government or military ID.
  
  
• 5). Make a photocopy of all forms of identification.
  
  
• 6). Pay the current passport fee.
  
  
• 7). Submit one copy of your passport photo.
  
  

Renewing a Passport

• 1). Check to see if your passport is undamaged, was issued after you turned 16 years old, is less than 15 years old and was issued in your current name.
  
  
• 2). Complete Form DS-82. This form is available at your local post office or online at travel.state.gov. Please see Resources for the link.
  
  
• 3). Get a passport photo taken.
  
  
• 4). Mail completed documents, your passport photo, payment for the current passport fee and your old passport in a padded envelope to The National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia PA 19190.