Apply for a New Adult U.S. Passport
A New Adult Passport application is for applicants age 16 or older who are applying for their first U.S. passport or whose previous passport is not eligible for renewal. New adult applicants use Form DS-11 and must submit the application in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
The DS-11 must be signed in front of an acceptance agent — we prepare it unsigned and tell you exactly where and how to finish.
Government fees$130 government application fee, paid to the U.S. Department of State, plus a separate $35 acceptance fee paid directly to the acceptance facility (accepted payment methods vary by location). Optional expedited service adds the State Department's $60 expedite fee plus $26.87 for 1–3 day return delivery of a passport book ($86.87 together).
When Do You Need a New Adult Passport?
You generally need to apply for a New Adult Passport if:
- You are age 16 or older and have never been issued a U.S. passport.
- Your previous passport was issued before you turned 16.
- Your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
- Your previous passport does not otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for renewal.
Applicants ages 16 and 17 must meet additional requirements, including showing that a parent or legal guardian is aware of the application.
What Do You Need to Apply?
Most applicants need only a few standard items:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- A government-issued photo ID
- One printed passport photo that meets government requirements
- Applicable government fees
Based on the information you provide, US Passport Assist will give you a personalized checklist, explain which documents and copies are required, and help you prepare your DS-11 application package.
How Does the Application Process Work?
- Provide Your Information
Complete the online application and provide the information needed to prepare your passport application package.
- We Prepare and Review Your Application
US Passport Assist prepares your Form DS-11, reviews your information and passport photo, and provides a personalized checklist of the documents you need.
- Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility
Bring your prepared application package and required documents to an authorized passport acceptance facility. Do not sign the application before your visit. The acceptance agent will verify your documents, administer the required oath, and ask you to sign the application in their presence.
- Submit and Track Your Application
Pay the applicable government fees and submit your application through the acceptance facility. After submission, you can follow the progress of your passport application.
US Passport Assist helps you prepare your application, organize the required documents, and understand the process before your in-person visit.
Common questions
Where do I apply for my first passport?
First-time applicants must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility — most post offices, many county clerk offices, and some libraries. We prepare your complete application packet and point you to nearby facilities, so the visit is a signature, not a paperwork session.
What counts as proof of citizenship?
A certified U.S. birth certificate (long form, with both parents listed), a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Photocopies are not accepted — the original or certified copy goes with your application and is mailed back to you afterward.
More answers in the FAQ hub.