Complete Form DS-11 without signing
First-Time U.S. Passport Support
Be Ready for Your In-Person Appointment
Application and appointment preparation for first-time U.S. passport applicants and others required to apply in person using Form DS-11.
Service TypeDocument Support
Primary ReferenceForm DS-11
AvailabilityVirtual Nationwide
Filing DetailsVerify Current Instructions
Who This Is For
Is this service right for your paperwork?
- Adults applying for their first U.S. passport
- Applicants whose prior passport was issued before age 16
- Applicants with a lost, stolen or severely damaged passport
- Applicants whose prior passport falls outside renewal eligibility
How We Help
Structured support from records to filing readiness
- Form DS-11 typing and print preparation
- Citizenship and identification checklist
- Photocopy formatting review
- Passport-photo checklist
- Acceptance-facility appointment preparation
- Two-payment-method checklist
Your Preparation Roadmap
A clear step-by-step process
Collect original citizenship evidence
Prepare required photocopies
Bring valid photo identification
Obtain a compliant passport photograph
Attend the appointment and sign before the agent
Document Checklist
Records commonly prepared for this service
- Unsigned Form DS-11
- Original or certified proof of U.S. citizenship
- Single-sided photocopy of citizenship evidence
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Front-and-back photocopy of the identification
- One compliant 2-by-2-inch passport photograph
- Separate payment methods for application and execution fees, as required
Requirements vary by filing basis and may change. Always use the latest instructions from the responsible government agency.
Before You File
Common issues to avoid
- Signing Form DS-11 before the appointment
- Bringing only a digital copy of citizenship proof
- Using double-sided or reduced photocopies
- Presenting an out-of-state ID without additional identification
- Arriving without the required separate payments
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers before you begin
Where do I apply?
First-time applicants generally apply at an authorized passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, library or local government office.
Should I sign DS-11 before arriving?
No. Sign only when instructed by the acceptance agent.
Are original citizenship documents returned?
The State Department generally returns original citizenship evidence separately after processing.
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