Blank DS-11 U.S. Passport application PDF Form

Blank DS-11 U.S. Passport application PDF Form

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is the official document used by individuals applying for a new U.S. passport. This form is essential for first-time applicants, minors, and those who do not meet specific criteria for renewal. Completing the DS-11 accurately is crucial for a smooth application process, so be sure to fill it out by clicking the button below.

Applying for a U.S. passport can seem daunting, but understanding the DS-11 form is essential for a smooth process. This application is specifically designed for first-time passport seekers, minors, and individuals who do not meet specific criteria for renewal. It requires applicants to provide personal information, including their full name, date of birth, and social security number. Supporting documents, such as proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID, must also be submitted. Additionally, a recent passport photo is necessary to ensure proper identification. The form must be completed in person at an authorized acceptance facility, where applicants will also pay the required fees. Timeliness is crucial, as processing times can vary, so it’s important to prepare all necessary documentation ahead of time. Understanding these key aspects will help streamline the application process and minimize delays.

Document Sample

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out. For information or questions, visit travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at

1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793) or [email protected].

SECTION A. ELIGIBILITY TO USE THIS FORM

This form is used to apply for a U.S. passport book and/or card in person at an acceptance facility, a passport agency (by appointment only), or a U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency (if abroad). The U.S. passport is a travel document attesting to one’s identity and issued to U.S. citizens or non-citizen U.S. nationals. To be eligible to use this form you must apply in person if at least one of the following is true:

I am applying for my first U.S. passport

I am under age 16

My previous U.S. passport was either: a) issued under age 16; b) issued more than 15 years ago; c) lost, stolen, or damaged

If none of the above statements apply to you, then you may be eligible to apply using form DS-82 or DS-5504 depending on your circumstances. NOTE: You may be ineligible to receive a passport if you owe child support or have unpaid federal taxes. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

Notice to Applicants Under Age 16: You must appear in person to apply for a U.S. passport with your parent(s) or legal guardian(s). See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.

Notice to Applicants Ages 16 and 17: At least one of your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must know that you are applying for a U.S. passport. See Section D of these instructions or travel.state.gov for more details.

Notice to Applicants for No-Fee Regular, Service, Official, or Diplomatic Passports: You may use this application if you meet all provisions listed; however, you must consult your sponsoring agency for instructions on proper routing procedures before forwarding this application. Your completed passport will be released to your sponsoring agency and forwarded to you.

SECTION B. STEPS TO APPLY FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

1.Complete this form (Do not sign until requested to do so by an authorized agent).

2.Attach one color photograph 2x2 inches in size and supporting documents (See Section D of these instructions).

3.Schedule appointment to apply in person by visiting our website or calling NPIC (see contact info at the top page).

4.Arrive for appointment and present completed form and attachments to the authorized agent who will administer the oath, witness you signing your form, and collect your passport fee.

5.Track application status online at Passportstatus.state.gov.

6.Receive new passport and original supporting documents (that you submitted with your application).

SECTION C. HOW TO COMPLETE THIS FORM

Please see the instructions below for items on the form that are not self-explanatory. The numbers match the numbered items of the form.

1.Name (Last, First, Middle): Enter the name to appear in the passport. The name to appear in the passport should be consistent with your proof of citizenship and identification. If you have changed your name and are not eligible to use a DS-82 or DS-5504, you must use this form. Visit travel.state.gov/namechange for more information.

2.Date of Birth: Use the following format: Month, Date, and Year (MM/DD/YYYY).

3.Sex: You must select sex marker option “M” (male) or “F” (female) that corresponds with your biological sex at birth.

4.Place of Birth: Enter the name of the city and state if in the U.S. or city and country as presently known.

5.Social Security Number: You must provide a Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one, in accordance with Section 6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E) and 22 U.S.C 2714a(f). If you do not have a Social Security number, you must enter zeros in this field and submit a statement, signed, and dated, that includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” If you reside abroad, you must also provide the name of the foreign country where you reside. The U.S. Department of State must provide your SSN and foreign residence information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury which will use it in connection with debt collection and check against lists of persons ineligible or potentially ineligible to receive a U.S. passport, among other authorized uses. If you fail to provide the information, we may deny your application and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may enforce a penalty. Refer all questions on this matter to the nearest IRS office.

6.USCIS Registration A-Number (A-Number): Enter your nine-digit number (if applicable). If you do not have an A-Number, leave this field blank.

7.Email Address: By providing your email address, you give us approval to send you email messages about the status of your passport and important travel information .

8.Mailing Address Line 1 and 2 "In Care Of": For line 1 enter applicant’s Street/RFD #, or P.O. Box or URB or Apt/Suite #. For line 2, if you do not live at the address listed in this field, put the name of the person who lives at this address and mark it "In Care Of". If the applicant is a minor child, you must include the "In Care Of" name of the parent or adult registered to receive mail at this address.

9.Primary Contact Phone Number and List All Other Names You Have Used: By providing your primary phone number, you give us approval to send you (text and/or SMS) messages about the status of your passport and important travel information. Also, enter all legal names previously used to include maiden name, name changes, and previous married names. You can enter up to two names one in section A and one in section B. If you need more space to write additional names, please use a separate sheet of paper and attach it to this form.)

Bottom Section of Application Page 1 - Identifying Documents and Signature Blocks: Skip this section and complete Application Page 2.

NOTE: Do not sign this form until requested to do so by the authorized agent who will administer the oath to you.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 1 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

SECTION D. ATTACHMENTS TO SUBMIT WITH THIS FORM

Once you have completed Application Pages 1 and 2, attach the supporting documents as outlined in this section.

1.PROOF OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP Information can be found on travel.state.gov/citizenship.

Applicants Born in the United States

Applicants Born Outside the United States

Your evidence will be returned to you if it is not damaged, altered,

If we determine that you are a U.S. citizen, your lawful permanent

or forged. Submit an original or certified copy and a photocopy of

resident card submitted with this application will be forwarded to

the front and back if there is printed information on the back, of

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

one of the following documents:

Claiming Citizenship through Naturalization of One or Both

 

U.S. Birth Certificate that meets all the following requirements:

Parent(s), submit all the following:

o Issued by the city, county, or state of birth

o Your parent(s) Certificate(s) of Naturalization

o Lists your full name, date of birth, and birthplace

o Your parents' marriage/certificate and/or evidence that you

o Lists your parent(s)' full names

were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen

o Lists date filed with registrar's office (must be within one

parent, if applicable

year of birth)

o Your foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

o Shows registrar's signature and the seal of the issuing

document is not in English)

authority

o Your evidence of admission to the United States for legal

o Lists your biological sex at birth

permanent residence and proof you subsequently resided

Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)

in the United States

Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth Abroad

Claiming Citizenship through Birth Abroad to At Least One U.S.

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

 

Citizen Parent, submit all the following:

• Secondary documents may be submitted if the U.S. birth

o Your Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240),

certificate was filed more than one year after your birth or if no

Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545), or your

birth record exists. For no birth record on file, submit a

foreign birth certificate (and official translation if the

registrar's letter to that effect. For both scenarios, submit a

document is not in English)

combination of the evidence listed below, with your first and last

o Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship

name, birthdate and/or birthplace, the seal or other certification

o Your parents' marriage certificate

of the office (if customary), and the signature of the issuing

o Affidavit showing all your U.S. citizen parents' periods and

official.

places of residence and physical presence before your

o A hospital birth record

birth (DS-5507)

o An early baptismal or circumcision certificate

Claiming Citizenship Through Adoption by a U.S. Citizen

o Early census, school, medical, or family Bible records

o Insurance files or published birth announcements (such as

Parent(s), if your birthdate is on or after October 5, 1978,

a newspaper article)

submit evidence of all the following:

o Notarized affidavits (or DS-10, Birth Affidavit) of older blood

o Your permanent residence status

relatives having knowledge of your birth may be submitted

o Your full and final adoption

in addition to some of the records listed above.

o You were in the legal and physical custody of your U.S.

 

citizen parent(s)

 

o You have resided in the United States

2.PROOF OF IDENTITY Information can be found at travel.state.gov/identification.

Present your original identification and submit a front and back photocopy with this form. It must show a photograph that is a good likeness of you. Examples include:

Driver's license (not temporary or learner's permit)

Federal, state, or city government employee identification

Previous or current U.S. passport book/card

Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Military identification

3.A RECENT COLOR PHOTOGRAPH See the full list of photo requirements on travel.state.gov/photos.

Attach one photo, 2x2 inches in size. U.S. passport photo requirements may differ from photo requirements of other countries. To avoid processing delays, be sure your photo meets all the following requirements (Refer to the photo template on Application Page 1):

Taken less than six months ago

• No eyeglasses and head covering and no uniforms*

Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the

Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper

 

chin to the top of the head

Use a plain white or off-white background

Head must face the camera directly with full face in view

*Head coverings are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement verifying that it is part of recognized, traditional religious attire that is customarily or required to be worn continuously in public or a signed doctor's statement verifying its daily use for medical purposes. Glasses or other eyewear are not acceptable unless you submit a signed statement from a doctor explaining why you cannot remove them (e.g., during the recovery period from eye surgery). Photos are to be taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis. You cannot wear a uniform, clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage attire.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 2 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

4.PROOF OF PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP (FOR APPLICANTS UNDER AGE 16)

Parents/guardians must appear in person with the child and submit the following:

Evidence of the child's relationship to parents/guardian(s) (Example: a birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad listing the names of the parent(s)/guardian(s) and child)

Original parental/guardian government-issued photo identification and a photocopy of the front and back (to satisfy proof of identity)

If only one parent/guardian can appear in person with the child, you must also submit one of the following:

The second parent's notarized written statement or DS-3053 (including the child's full name and date of birth) consenting to the passport issuance for the child. The notarized statement cannot be more than three months old, must be signed and notarized on the same day, and must come with a front and back photocopy of the second parent's government-issued photo identification.

The second parent’s death certificate (if second parent is deceased)

Evidence of sole authority to apply (Example: a court order granting sole legal custody or a birth certificate listing only one parent)

A written statement (made under penalty of perjury) or DS-5525 explaining, in detail, why the second parent cannot be reached

OR

PROOF OF PARENTAL AWARENESS (FOR APPLICANTS AGES 16 AND 17)

We may request the consent of one legal parent/legal guardian to issue a U.S. passport to you. In many cases, the passport authorizing officer may be able to ascertain parental awareness of the application by virtue of the parent’s presence when the minor submits the application or a signed note from the parent or proof the parent is paying the application fees. However, the passport authorizing officer retains discretion to request the legal parent’s/legal guardian’s notarized statement of consent to issuance (e.g., on Form DS-3053).

5. FEES Passport service fees are established by law and regulation (see 22 U.S.C. 214, 22 C.F.R. 22.1, and 22 C.F.R. 51.50-56) and are collected at the time you apply for the passport service. By law, the passport fees are non-refundable. Visit travel.state.gov/passportfees for current fees, payment methods, and how fees are used and processed. Additional fee information is as follows:

The execution fee must be paid separately and made payable to the acceptance facility in the payment method they accept.

If applying outside the United States: Please see the website of your embassy, consulate, or consular agency for acceptable payment methods.

Other Services Requiring Additional Fee (Visit travel.state.gov for more details):

Expedite Service: Only available for passports mailed in the United States and Canada.

1-2 Day Delivery: Only available for passport book (and not passport card) mailings in the United States.

Verification of a previous U.S. Passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad: Upon your request, we verify previously issued

U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad if you are unable to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship.

Special Issuance Passports: If you apply for a no-fee regular, service, official, or diplomatic passport at a designated acceptance facility, you must pay the execution fee. No other fees are charged when you apply.

SECTION E. HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM

Submitting your form depends on your location and how soon you need your passport.

Applicant Located Inside the United States: For the latest information regarding processing times, scheduling appointments, and nearest designated acceptance facilities visit travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.

Applicant Located Outside the United States: In most countries, you must apply in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate for all passport services. Each U.S. embassy and consulate has different procedures for submitting and processing your application. Visit travel.state.gov to check the U.S. embassy or consulate webpage for more information.

SECTION F. RECEIVING YOUR PASSPORT AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Difference Between U.S. Passport Book and Card: The book is valid for international travel by air, land, and sea. The card is not valid for international air travel, only for entry at land border crossings and seaports of entry when traveling from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The maximum number of letters provided for your given name (first and middle) on the card is 24 characters. If both your given names are more than 24 characters, you must shorten one of your given names you list on item #1 of Application Page 1.

Separate mailings: You may receive your newly issued U.S. passport book and/or card and your citizenship evidence in two separate

mailings. If you are applying for both a book and card, you may receive three separate mailings: one with your returned evidence, one with your newly issued book, and one with your newly issued card. All documentary evidence that is not damaged, altered, or forged will be returned to you. Photocopies will not be returned.

Passport numbers: Each newly issued passport book or card will have a different passport number than your previous one.

Shipping and Delivery Changes: If your mailing address changes prior to receipt of your new passport, please contact NPIC. NOTE: We will not mail a U.S. passport to a private address outside the United States or Canada.

Passport Corrections, Non-Receipt/Undeliverable Passports, and Lost/Stolen Passport: For more information visit travel.state.gov or contact NPIC.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 3 of 4

U.S. Department of State

APPLICATION FOR A U.S. PASSPORT

WARNING

False statements made knowingly and willfully in passport applications, including affidavits or other documents submitted to support this application, are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under U.S. law including the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1542, and/or 18 U.S.C. 1621. Alteration or mutilation of a passport issued pursuant to this application is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 1543. The use of a passport in violation of the restrictions contained herein or of passport regulations is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1544. All statements and documents are subject to verification.

Failure to provide information requested on this form, including your Social Security number, may result in significant

processing delays and/or the denial of your application.

ACTS OR CONDITIONS

The applicant agrees with the following statement:

I am not currently required to register under the sex offender registration program of any jurisdiction for a sex offense against a minor. I have not been convicted of a federal or state drug offense or convicted of a statutory "sex tourism" crime, and I am not the subject of an outstanding federal, state, or local warrant of arrest for a felony; a criminal court order forbidding my departure from the United States; or a subpoena received from the United States in a matter involving federal prosecution for, or grand jury investigation of, a felony.

If any of the above-mentioned acts or conditions have been performed by or apply to the applicant, a supplementary explanatory statement under oath (or affirmation) by the applicant is required to be attached and made part of this application.

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

AUTHORITIES: Collection of this information is authorized by 22 U.S.C. 211 a et seq.; 8 U.S.C. 1104; 26 U.S.C. 6039E, 22 U.S.C. 2714a(f), Section 236 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001; Executive Order 11295 (August 5, 1966); and 22 C.F.R. parts 50 and 51.

PURPOSE: We are requesting this information in order to determine your eligibility to be issued a U.S. passport. Your Social Security number is used to verify your identity.

ROUTINE USES: This information may be disclosed to another domestic government agency, a private contractor, a foreign government agency, or to a private person or private employer in accordance with certain approved routine uses. These routine uses include, but are not limited to, law enforcement activities, employment verification, fraud prevention, border security, counterterrorism, litigation activities, and activities that meet the Secretary of State's responsibility to protect U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals abroad. Your Social Security number will be provided to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and may be used in connection with debt collection, among other purposes authorized and generally described in this section. More information on the routine uses for the system can be found in System of Records Notices State-05, Overseas Citizen Services Records and Other Overseas Records and State-26, Passport Records.

DISCLOSURE: Providing information on this form is voluntary. Be advised, however, that failure to provide the information requested on this form may cause delays in processing your U.S. passport application and/or could also result in the refusal or denial of your application. Failure to provide your Social Security number may result in the denial of your application (consistent with 22 U.S.C. 2714a(f)) and may subject you to penalty enforced by the Internal Revenue Service, as described in the Federal Tax Law on Instruction Page 1 (Section C) to this form.

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 85 minutes per response, including the time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary data, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: Passport Forms Officer, U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Program Management and Operational Support, 44132 Mercure Cir, PO Box 1199, Sterling, Virginia 20166-1199.

For more information about your application status, online tools, current fees, and

processing times, please visit travel.state.gov.

DS-11 04-2025

Instruction Page 4 of 4

OMB Control No. 1405-0004

Expiration Date: 06/30/2028

Please print legibly using black ink only. If you make an error, complete a new form. Do not correct or white out.Estimated Burden: 85 Minutes

U.S. Passport Book

 

U.S. Passport Card

 

Both

 

 

 

 

The U.S. Passport Card is not valid for international air travel. See Instruction Page 3

 

 

 

Regular Book (Standard)

 

 

 

Large Book (Non-Standard)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The large book is for frequent international travelers who need more visa pages

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

Place of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Security Number

USCIS Registration A-Number (if applicable)

Email (see application status at passportstatus.state.gov)

A-

Street/RFD#, P.O. Box, or URB. Also include Apartment, Suite, etc

(If applicant is a child, write "In Care Of" the parent) Example: In Care Of - Jane Doe

City

State

Zip Code

Country (if outside the United States)

9.

List all other names you have used. (Examples: Birth Name, Maiden, Previous Marriage, Legal Name Change). If needed, attach additional pages.

A.

 

 

B.

Staple

Staple

Staple

Attach a color photograph of applicant taken within the last six months

Staple

DS-11 04-2025

Application Page 1 of 2

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cell

(MM/DD/YYYY) (MM/DD/YYYY)

Name printed on your most recent book

 

Status of Book

Name printed on your most recent card

 

 

Status of Card

 

Submitting with application

 

Submitting with application

 

 

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

Stolen

Lost

In my possession (if expired)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your most recent passport book/card was lost or stolen, you must explain in detail below. Please provide your previous book/card number and include the date and location (address/city/state/ country) of the loss/theft, if known. Please indicate whether you filed a police report, and if it is available, please submit a copy. If you need more space, continue on a separate sheet of paper.

DS-11 04-2025

Clear Form

Application Page 2 of 2

File Specifics

Fact Name Description
Eligibility The DS-11 form is used for first-time passport applicants, minors, and those who do not qualify for renewal.
Application Process Applicants must submit the DS-11 form in person at designated acceptance facilities or passport agencies.
Required Documents Applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo.
Fees The application fee for a passport book is currently $130, with additional fees for expedited service.
Processing Time Standard processing can take 10-12 weeks, while expedited processing usually takes 5-7 weeks.
Governing Law The application is governed by the Passport Act of 1926 and subsequent amendments.

How to Use DS-11 U.S. Passport application

Filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is an important step in obtaining your passport. Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it in person at a designated acceptance facility. Make sure you have all required documents ready for submission.

  1. Obtain the DS-11 form. You can download it from the U.S. State Department's website or pick up a copy at a passport acceptance facility.
  2. Begin filling out the form by providing your personal information. This includes your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
  3. Next, provide your contact information. Include your current address, email address, and phone number.
  4. Indicate your citizenship status. Check the appropriate box to confirm whether you are a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen national.
  5. Fill in your parental information. List the names, birthplaces, and dates of birth for both parents or guardians.
  6. Complete the section on passport type. Indicate whether you are applying for a passport book, passport card, or both.
  7. Provide a passport photo. Make sure it meets the official requirements, such as size and background color.
  8. Sign and date the application. Your signature must match the one on your identification.
  9. Review your application for any errors or omissions. Ensure all fields are complete and accurate.
  10. Gather the required documents, including proof of citizenship and identification, and prepare to submit your application.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the DS-11 form used for?

The DS-11 form is the application used to apply for a U.S. passport for the first time. It is specifically designed for individuals who are applying for a passport and have never had one before, or for those who are under the age of 16. Additionally, it is used when a previous passport was issued when the applicant was a minor, or if the previous passport has been lost or stolen.

How do I fill out the DS-11 form?

Filling out the DS-11 form requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Obtain the form: You can get the DS-11 form online from the U.S. State Department's website or at designated passport acceptance facilities.
  2. Provide personal information: Fill in your name, date of birth, and other identifying details. Make sure the information matches your identification documents.
  3. Include your parents' information: If you are under 16, you will need to provide information about your parents or guardians.
  4. Sign and date the application: Do not sign the form until you are instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent.

Where do I submit the DS-11 form?

The DS-11 form must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility. This could be a post office, library, or other designated locations. It is important to schedule an appointment if required. Bring the completed form along with the necessary documents, such as proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID. After submitting, you will receive a receipt with information on how to track your application.

What documents do I need to provide with the DS-11 form?

When submitting the DS-11 form, you will need to provide several key documents:

  • A certified birth certificate or a naturalization certificate to prove your citizenship.
  • A valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or government-issued ID.
  • One recent passport photo that meets specific requirements regarding size and background.

Make sure to bring both the originals and photocopies of these documents, as they may need to be verified by the acceptance agent.

How long does it take to receive my passport after submitting the DS-11 form?

The processing time for a passport application can vary. Typically, routine processing takes about 10 to 12 weeks. However, if you need your passport sooner, expedited service is available for an additional fee and usually takes about 5 to 7 weeks. It’s important to check the U.S. State Department's website for the most current processing times, as they can change based on demand and other factors.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to provide a complete mailing address. Ensure that all components of your address, including apartment numbers or suite numbers, are included.

  2. Not using black ink when filling out the form. The application must be completed in black ink to ensure legibility.

  3. Leaving out required supporting documents. Applicants often forget to include proof of citizenship or identification, which can delay processing.

  4. Providing an inaccurate Social Security number. Double-check that the number is correct and matches the one on your identification.

  5. Not signing the application. A signature is mandatory. An unsigned application will be rejected.

  6. Using an incorrect photo. Ensure the passport photo meets all requirements, including size and background color, to avoid rejection.

Documents used along the form

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to obtain a U.S. passport. Along with this form, several other documents may be required to complete the application process. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the DS-11 application.

  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This document verifies the applicant's citizenship status. Acceptable forms include a birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a previous passport.
  • Government-issued Photo ID: A valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or military ID, is necessary to confirm the applicant's identity.
  • Passport Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph is required. The photo must meet specific requirements regarding size, background, and quality.
  • Payment for Fees: Applicants must include payment for the passport application fee. This can be made via check, money order, or credit card, depending on the submission method.
  • Parental Consent (if applicable): For applicants under the age of 16, a signed consent form from both parents or legal guardians is necessary to proceed with the application.
  • Application for a U.S. Passport Renewal (if applicable): If the applicant is renewing a passport, this additional form may be needed, depending on the circumstances of the renewal.

Collecting and submitting these documents alongside the DS-11 form can help ensure a smooth application process. Being well-prepared can reduce delays and facilitate the timely issuance of a passport.

Similar forms

The DS-11 U.S. Passport application form is similar to the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Both documents are used to establish identity and relationships. The Form I-130 requires personal information about the petitioner and the beneficiary, just like the DS-11 collects data about the applicant. Each form must be completed accurately and submitted to the appropriate government agency, ensuring that all necessary supporting documents are included. Both forms are essential for processing applications that lead to significant benefits, such as travel or immigration.

Another document that shares similarities with the DS-11 is the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. The N-400 is used by lawful permanent residents who wish to become U.S. citizens. Like the DS-11, it requires detailed personal information, including biographical data and residency history. Both forms also necessitate the submission of identification documents and photographs. The completion of either form is a critical step in a larger process that grants individuals important rights and privileges in the United States.

The DS-11 form also resembles the Form DS-82, Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. While the DS-11 is for first-time applicants or those who do not meet specific criteria, the DS-82 is for individuals renewing their passports. Both forms require applicants to provide personal information, and both have similar requirements regarding photographs and identification. The main difference lies in the eligibility criteria for each form, but they both serve the same purpose of obtaining a U.S. passport.

The Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, is another document that parallels the DS-11. Both forms require applicants to provide personal information, including name, date of birth, and proof of identity. The SS-5 is necessary for obtaining a Social Security number, which is crucial for various benefits and services in the U.S. Like the DS-11, the SS-5 must be submitted to a government agency, and both require supporting documents to verify the information provided.

Lastly, the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, shares some characteristics with the DS-11. The I-9 is used by employers to verify an employee's identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Similar to the DS-11, it requires personal information and supporting documents to confirm identity. Both forms must be completed accurately to avoid delays in processing. While their purposes differ, they both play vital roles in ensuring compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the application is processed smoothly. Below is a list of recommended actions and common pitfalls to avoid.

Things You Should Do:

  • Read the instructions carefully before starting the application.
  • Provide accurate and complete information in all sections of the form.
  • Use black ink to fill out the form to ensure legibility.
  • Sign and date the application in the designated areas.

Things You Shouldn't Do:

  • Do not leave any required fields blank; incomplete applications may be rejected.
  • Avoid using correction fluid or tape on the application.
  • Do not submit the application without the necessary supporting documents.
  • Refrain from signing the application until you are in the presence of a passport acceptance agent.

Misconceptions

When applying for a DS-11 U.S. Passport, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are five common misunderstandings:

  1. It’s only for first-time applicants.

    Many believe the DS-11 form is exclusively for those applying for their first passport. In reality, it is also used by individuals who are replacing a lost or stolen passport or who have had a passport issued when they were under age 16.

  2. Passport photos can be taken anywhere.

    Some think they can take their own passport photo at home. However, the photo must meet specific requirements regarding size, background color, and quality. It’s best to use a professional service or a designated photo booth.

  3. You can submit the application online.

    Many applicants assume they can fill out the DS-11 form online and submit it electronically. This is not true. The DS-11 form must be completed in person at an authorized acceptance facility or passport agency.

  4. All documents can be submitted in copies.

    Some believe that photocopies of documents are sufficient. In fact, original documents are typically required, such as proof of citizenship and identification. Make sure to bring the originals and copies for processing.

  5. Processing times are always the same.

    Many people think passport processing times are consistent. They can vary based on factors like the time of year and the volume of applications. It’s crucial to check the current processing times and apply well in advance of any travel plans.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure a smoother application process. Be informed and prepared to avoid delays.

Key takeaways

When filling out the DS-11 U.S. Passport application form, it is important to understand the process and requirements to ensure a smooth application experience. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Eligibility: The DS-11 form is used for first-time applicants, children under 16, and individuals whose previous passports were lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • In-Person Submission: Unlike some other forms, the DS-11 must be submitted in person at an authorized acceptance facility or passport agency.
  • Required Documents: Applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, along with a valid photo ID.
  • Passport Photo: A recent passport photo that meets specific requirements is necessary. Make sure it is 2x2 inches and taken within the last six months.
  • Fees: Be prepared to pay the application fee at the time of submission. Payment methods vary by facility, so check in advance.
  • Processing Time: Routine processing can take several weeks. If you need your passport sooner, consider expedited service for an additional fee.
  • Tracking Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application online. This provides peace of mind during the waiting period.
  • Renewal Options: If you are renewing a passport, you may not need to use the DS-11 form. Instead, the DS-82 form can often be submitted by mail.

By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the DS-11 application process with greater confidence and clarity.