Every year, millions of Americans need to apply for or replace a U.S. passport. Whether you are a first-time applicant, a parent applying for a minor, or someone whose passport was lost or stolen, the document that starts your journey is the DS-11 passport application form. Issued by the U.S. Department of State, Form DS-11 is the official gateway to one of the most important travel documents you will ever carry. Understanding what it requires, how to complete it correctly, and what to expect during processing can mean the difference between boarding your flight on time and watching it leave without you.
Whether you are searching for a new passport application form, wondering exactly how to fill out DS-11, or looking for a complete guide on first time passport application requirements, this article has you covered. We walk you through every section of the form, every document on the DS-11 required documents checklist, the complete fee structure, and the latest passport processing time 2026 estimates — including what changed for US passport application 2026. We also cover the passport photo requirements 2026 update that is now rejecting AI-edited images, how to locate a passport acceptance facility near me, and a full section on applying for a child passport application form under DS-11. Read on and apply with confidence.
What Is Form DS-11?
Form DS-11 is the Application for a U.S. Passport, issued and administered by the U.S. Department of State. It is the primary form used when someone cannot renew their passport by mail or through the online renewal portal. Unlike Form DS-82, which is reserved for eligible passport renewals, DS-11 requires an in-person appearance at an authorized acceptance facility, where a passport agent verifies your identity, witnesses your signature, and collects your application documents before forwarding everything to the National Passport Processing Center.
The form itself is five pages long and covers your personal information, parent information, travel history, and previous passport details. It is available as a digital fillable PDF on the official State Department website, and it is always free to download. Fees only apply to processing and the acceptance facility execution charge — more on that below.
📥 Download Form DS-11 from the Official U.S. Department of State Website →
2026 Update — What Changed and Who Should Know
The most significant change affecting DS-11 applicants in 2026 is the State Department’s crackdown on AI-edited and digitally altered passport photos. Starting in late 2025 and now fully enforced in 2026, automated screening systems reject any photo that shows signs of AI alteration, beauty filters, skin smoothing, or background replacement — even subtle edits. If your photo is flagged, your entire application is returned, adding two to four weeks of delay. Submit your passport photo exactly as taken, with only basic cropping allowed.
Additionally, the April 2025 revision of Form DS-11 introduced a new sex marker requirement: applicants must now select “M” (male) or “F” (female) corresponding to their biological sex at birth, removing the previously available “X” marker option. Always download the most current version of the form from travel.state.gov to ensure you are using the correct revision.
Who Must Use Form DS-11?
You are required to use Form DS-11 (and appear in person) if any of the following applies to you:
- You are applying for your very first U.S. passport
- You are under 16 years of age
- Your most recent U.S. passport was issued when you were under 16
- Your most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago
- Your passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
- Your name has changed and you cannot provide a legal name-change document
If you do not fall into any of these categories and your most recent passport was issued at age 16 or older and less than 15 years ago, you may qualify to renew using Form DS-82 by mail or through the online renewal portal at opr.travel.state.gov. When in doubt, check the State Department’s eligibility tool at travel.state.gov before visiting an acceptance facility.
DS-11 Required Documents — Complete Checklist
Gathering the correct documents before your appointment is critical. Missing even one item means you cannot complete your application that day and will have to reschedule — a costly mistake during peak travel season when appointments are booked four to eight weeks out.
For Adults (Age 16 and Older)
- Completed Form DS-11 (do not sign until instructed by the agent)
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship — original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate (with raised seal from the issuing authority), a previous U.S. passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240), or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. Photocopies are not accepted.
- Photo ID — a valid driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or previous U.S. passport
- Photocopy of your photo ID — front and back on a single 8.5×11 inch sheet
- One passport photo — 2×2 inches, taken within the last six months, meeting all 2026 State Department requirements
- Payment — two separate payments to two different entities (see fee section below)
- Social Security Number — required by federal law; you will enter it on the form
If Your Passport Was Lost or Stolen
Add a completed Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport) to your document package. This form is submitted alongside DS-11 and officially reports the missing document to the State Department.
Passport Photo Requirements 2026 — What You Must Know
Your passport photo is one of the most scrutinized parts of your application. Getting it wrong is one of the leading causes of application delays. Here are the current requirements you must meet:
- Size: Exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm). Your head must measure between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches from chin to top of head within that frame.
- Background: Plain white or off-white. No patterns, no objects, no other people.
- Recency: Taken within the last six months.
- Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open and clearly visible.
- Glasses: Not permitted. No exceptions since 2016.
- Head coverings: Not permitted unless worn daily for religious reasons, with full face visible from hairline to chin.
- AI and editing ban (2026): No filters, skin smoothing, background replacement, or AI-generated alterations. Any digitally altered photo will be automatically rejected by the State Department’s screening system.
- For infants and children: Same size requirements apply. Only the child’s face should appear — no hands, pacifiers, or toys visible.
You can have your photo taken at most U.S. Post Offices, pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), UPS stores, or AAA locations. Alternatively, the State Department offers a free photo tool at travel.state.gov to check compliance before printing.
How to Fill Out DS-11 — Step-by-Step Guide
Form DS-11 is six pages long. You can complete it using the State Department’s free online fillable tool (recommended to avoid handwriting errors) or by printing and filling in black ink with block capital letters. Here is what each section requires:
Step 1: Personal Information (Pages 1–2)
Enter your full legal name exactly as it appears on your citizenship documents. Include your date of birth in MM/DD/YYYY format, your place of birth (city and state or country), your sex (M or F as of the 2025 revision), and your Social Security Number. Provide your mailing address, primary phone number, and email address. List all other legal names you have previously used, including maiden names and previous married names (up to two prior names).
Step 2: Contact and Travel Information (Pages 2–3)
Indicate whether you want a passport book, passport card, or both. Provide your height in feet and inches, your hair color, and your eye color. If you have an emergency contact, enter their name and phone number here. If you have an upcoming international trip, you may enter your travel date and destination to support any expedited processing request.
Step 3: Parent Information (Pages 4–5)
All DS-11 applicants — adults and minors alike — must provide information on both parents: full legal names, dates of birth, places of birth, citizenship status, and whether each parent is a U.S. citizen. This section is required even if one or both parents are deceased, unknown, or estranged. Leave no fields blank.
Step 4: Previous Passport and Spouse Information (Page 5–6)
If you have ever held a U.S. passport, enter the relevant details: passport number, issue date, and what happened to it (surrendered, expired, lost, etc.). If you have been married, enter your most recent spouse’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
Step 5: Do NOT Sign Yet
This is the most common and most costly mistake applicants make. Do not sign Form DS-11 before appearing at the acceptance facility. Your signature must be witnessed by an authorized passport agent. Signing in advance invalidates the form and requires you to start over with a new application.
DS-11 Fees — Complete 2026 Fee Table
One of the most confusing parts of the DS-11 process is that you pay two separate fees to two different entities. Many applicants show up with a single payment and are turned away.
| Applicant Type | What You Are Applying For | Application Fee (to Dept. of State) | Execution Fee (to Facility) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (16+) | Passport Book | $130 | $35 | $165 |
| Adult (16+) | Passport Card | $30 | $35 | $65 |
| Adult (16+) | Book & Card | $160 | $35 | $195 |
| Minor (Under 16) | Passport Book | $100 | $35 | $135 |
| Minor (Under 16) | Passport Card | $15 | $35 | $50 |
| Minor (Under 16) | Book & Card | $115 | $35 | $150 |
Optional fees: Expedited processing costs an additional $60 and reduces routine wait times. Overnight delivery of your completed passport costs $22.05 extra. The application fee is paid by check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.” The execution fee is paid separately to the acceptance facility and may be accepted by credit card, debit card, or cash depending on the location.
💰 Fees are sourced from the official U.S. Department of State Passport Fee page →
Passport Processing Time 2026 — Routine vs. Expedited
Processing times are a top concern for applicants heading into summer 2026. Here is the current picture as of June 2026:
| Service Level | Processing Time | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Routine | 4–6 weeks | None |
| Expedited (by mail) | 2–3 weeks | $60 |
| Urgent (Regional Agency) | Same day or next day | $60 + appointment required |
Important: These timelines begin when the State Department receives your application — not when you mail it or drop it off at the acceptance facility. Always add mailing time on both ends, especially if you are not using overnight shipping. For urgent travel within 14 days (or 28 days if a foreign visa is required), book an appointment directly at one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies through travel.state.gov.
How to Find a Passport Acceptance Facility Near Me
There are approximately 8,000 authorized passport acceptance facilities across the United States. These include:
- U.S. Post Offices (most common and widely available)
- County and city clerk offices
- Public libraries
- Some community colleges and government buildings
To find the closest location to you, use the State Department’s official Acceptance Facility Locator at iafdb.travel.state.gov. Enter your zip code and filter by distance, appointment availability, and services offered. During peak travel season (March through August), appointment slots at popular Post Office locations can fill up four to eight weeks in advance. Book early.
If you need your passport urgently, skip the acceptance facility queue and book directly at a Regional Passport Agency. Bring proof of travel within 14 days (such as a flight ticket or itinerary) to qualify for an urgent appointment.
Applying for a Child Passport Using DS-11
All children under 16 must apply for a passport using Form DS-11 — no exceptions and no mail-in option. The child passport application form process has a few important differences from an adult application.
Both Parents Must Consent
Both parents or legal guardians must either appear together at the acceptance facility or provide proof of sole custody or parental consent. If one parent cannot be present, the absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent), have it notarized, and provide a photocopy of their own photo ID. The DS-3053 must be dated within 90 days of the appointment and cannot be older than three months.
Validity Period
Child passports are valid for five years, compared to ten years for adults. When the passport expires — or when the child turns 16, whichever comes first — a new DS-11 application must be filed in person. Children cannot use Form DS-82 to renew.
Fees for Minors
A minor passport book costs $100 (application fee) plus $35 (execution fee) for a total of $135. The passport card for minors costs $15 plus $35. Both can be applied for together for $115 plus $35.
Top 8 DS-11 Mistakes That Delay Applications
These are the most common errors that result in applications being returned or delayed. Avoid every single one:
- Signing DS-11 before your appointment. This invalidates the entire form. Always wait for the passport agent to instruct you.
- Using a photocopy of your birth certificate. Only an original or certified copy with an official raised seal is accepted. Hospital-issued birth certificates are also not accepted.
- Incorrect or AI-edited passport photo. Wrong size, taken more than six months ago, wearing glasses, or showing any digital editing — all grounds for rejection in 2026.
- Missing your Social Security Number. It is legally required on the form. Leaving it blank will get your application returned.
- Incomplete parent information. Both parents’ details are required even if unknown, estranged, or deceased.
- Submitting only one payment. Remember: two separate fees to two separate entities. A single check will not suffice.
- Folding or stapling the application. Keep DS-11 completely flat and unfolded. Use a paperclip if you need to attach documents.
- Not having photocopies of ID. Both front and back of your photo ID must be on a single piece of paper and submitted with the application.
How to Track Your Passport Application Status
Once your DS-11 has been submitted and your application is in the system, you can check its status any time at passportstatus.state.gov. You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Status updates typically appear within two weeks of the State Department receiving your application. You can also call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 for a live update.
Official Links & Resources
- 📄 Download Form DS-11 (Official State Department PDF) →
- 🌍 How to Apply for a New Passport — travel.state.gov →
- 📍 Find a Passport Acceptance Facility Near You →
- 💰 Official 2026 Passport Fee Schedule →
- 📷 U.S. Passport Photo Requirements →
- 🔍 Track Your Passport Application Status →
- 📄 Also Read: I-485 Form — How to Apply for a US Green Card →
Other Application Forms You May Need
Applying for a passport is often just one step in a larger paperwork journey. Depending on your situation, you may also need to complete other official U.S. government application forms. Here are some of the most-searched forms on our site to help you stay prepared:
- 📋 DS-82 Form — Passport Renewal by Mail (2026 Guide)
Already have a passport? If it was issued at age 16 or older and is less than 15 years old, you may qualify to renew by mail using Form DS-82 — no in-person visit required. - 📋 I-485 Form — Application to Register Permanent Residence (Green Card)
If you are already in the United States and wish to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, Form I-485 is the form you need to adjust your immigration status to that of a Green Card holder.
Frequently Asked Questions About Form DS-11
Can I fill out Form DS-11 online and submit it digitally?
You can fill out Form DS-11 using the State Department’s online tool, but you must print it and submit it in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Digital submission of DS-11 is not available. Only passport renewals (Form DS-82) can be submitted by mail or online for eligible applicants.
How much does it cost to apply for a passport using DS-11 in 2026?
For adults applying for a passport book, the total is $165 — $130 to the U.S. Department of State plus a $35 execution fee paid to the acceptance facility. Adding expedited processing costs an extra $60. Optional overnight return delivery costs $22.05.
How long does DS-11 passport processing take in 2026?
Routine processing currently takes four to six weeks from the date the State Department receives your application. Expedited processing (with the $60 fee) takes two to three weeks. Urgent appointments at Regional Passport Agencies can result in same-day or next-day issuance for applicants with imminent travel.
Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?
You must bring original documents (or certified copies with official seals) for proof of citizenship. For your photo ID, you bring the original plus one photocopy (front and back) on a single sheet. Photocopies alone are never accepted for citizenship evidence.
What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A passport book is valid for international travel by air, sea, and land to any country. A passport card is wallet-sized and valid only for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It is not valid for international air travel. Many applicants apply for both at the same time using DS-11 to save on the execution fee.
Can a child apply for a passport without both parents present?
Yes, but only with proper consent documentation. If one parent cannot appear, the absent parent must complete Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent), have it notarized within the last 90 days, and provide a photocopy of their photo ID. If one parent has sole legal custody, documentation proving that must be submitted instead.
What happens if I sign Form DS-11 before my appointment?
If you sign DS-11 before appearing at the acceptance facility, the form is invalid. The passport agent cannot process it, and you will need to download a fresh copy of the form and complete it again. This is the single most common mistake and is completely avoidable — simply wait until the agent instructs you to sign.
How do I track my DS-11 passport application after submitting it?
Use the official tracking tool at passportstatus.state.gov. Enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number to see your current application status. Status updates typically begin appearing two weeks after the State Department receives your application. For real-time updates, call the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. All fees, processing times, and form requirements are subject to change by the U.S. Department of State. Always verify current information at travel.state.gov before applying.
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