Fill out Form DS-11 Online

What is Form DS-11?

Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport, is the official document you need if you are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time. This form is also necessary for individuals who can't renew their passport by mail, including both minors and adults. If you've never had a passport, have one that expired more than 15 years ago, or lost your passport, you'll need to fill out this form. The DS-11 form collects essential information about your identity and proof of citizenship. This information is crucial to verify your eligibility for a passport. Completing this form is the first step to obtaining a passport, which is essential for U.S. citizens traveling internationally. Without an approved DS-11 form, you won't be able to receive a passport book or card. Once completed, the Form DS-11 must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility. Here, an authorized agent will witness your signature and identity to help prevent fraud. This step is vital to ensure your application is processed correctly.

Who needs to fill out Form DS-11?

Form DS-11 must be filled out by individuals applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, or by those renewing a passport that was lost, stolen, or issued more than 15 years ago. It is also necessary for applicants who received their original passport before the age of 16. For minors under 16, a parent or legal guardian is responsible for completing the form and must be present during submission, providing proof of their relationship to the child. Certain individuals are exempt from using Form DS-11. Adults can renew their passports by mail using Form DS-82 if they have a valid, undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years and have not changed their name without documentation. Minors do not qualify for this exemption and must always complete Form DS-11. Additionally, passport card renewals follow the same eligibility criteria as book renewals and do not require this form.

How to fill out Form DS-11