U.S. Passport Application Process
Share
Print this article
Font Size
Applying for Your U.S. Passport for the First Time In-Person
View ArticleView Article Comments
You must apply in person for a U.S. Passport Book or U.S. Passport Card if:
  • You are applying for your first U.S. passport or
  • You are under age 16 or
  • Your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16 or
  • Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged or
  • Your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago or
  • Your name has changed since your U.S. passport was issued and you are unable to legally document your name change
You should also note that special requirements apply for: (1) minors under age 16; (2) minors ages 16-17; and (3) for diplomatic, official, and regular no-fee passport.

You may also be eligible to renew your U.S. Passport by mail, if you are a previous U.S. Passport Book holder and you are eligible to submit Form DS-82.

Next, we’ll go over where you’ll need to go and what you’ll need to bring if you have to apply in person.