How to Apply for a U.S. Passport (and How to Renew One)
- Lynette Brown
- Mar 8
- 3 min read
If you're planning international travel, one of the first things you’ll need is a valid passport.
As a travel advisor, one of the most common issues I see when clients begin planning a trip is discovering their passport has expired, or that their children don’t have one yet.
The good news is that applying for or renewing a passport is usually straightforward if you know what to expect.
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process.
Who Needs a Passport?
Every U.S. citizen traveling internationally by air must have a valid passport. That includes:
Adults
Teenagers
Infants and children
Even babies need their own passport when traveling internationally.
Passport Rules by Age
The process depends on the age of the traveler.
Children Under 16
Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present.
Requirements include:
Form DS-11
Proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship
Proof of parental relationship
Photo ID for parents
A passport photo of the child
Passports issued to children under 16 are valid for 5 years.
Teens Ages 16–17
Teenagers can apply for a passport using the same form as adults (DS-11), but at least one parent should be aware of the application.
Passports issued at this age are valid for 10 years.
Adults 18 and Older
Adults applying for their first passport must apply in person using Form DS-11.
Most applications are submitted at:
Post offices
Libraries
Local government offices
Routine processing usually takes 4–6 weeks, though expedited service can be faster.
Documents Needed to Apply for a Passport
When applying for a passport, you’ll need several documents.
1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship
You must provide one original document, such as:
Certified U.S. birth certificate
Previous U.S. passport
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
Photocopies or digital versions are not accepted.
2. Valid Identification
Examples include:
Driver’s license
Government ID
Military ID
You must also provide a photocopy of your ID.
3. Passport Photo
You will need one passport photo taken within the last 6 months.
Typical photo requirements:
2x2 inches
White background
No glasses
Neutral expression
Many pharmacies, post offices, and shipping stores offer passport photos.
4. Passport Application Form
The most common forms are:
DS-11 – First-time passport applicants or childrenDS-82 – Passport renewal by mail
Important tip: Do not sign the DS-11 form until instructed to do so at your passport appointment.
Passport Costs
Typical passport fees include:
Passport Book (Adult): about $130
Passport Card: about $30
Acceptance Facility Fee: about $35
Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
How to Renew a Passport
Renewing a passport is often much easier than applying for the first time.
Most adults can renew their passport if:
Their passport is undamaged
It was issued within the last 15 years
They were age 16 or older when it was issued
Their name hasn’t changed (or they have documentation)
Renewals are typically done using Form DS-82.
Many renewals can now also be completed online through the U.S. State Department system.
You will need:
Your current passport
A new passport photo
Payment for the renewal fee
Important Passport Tips for Travelers
As a travel advisor, here are a few things I always recommend checking before booking an international trip:
1. Check the expiration date early
Many countries require your passport to be valid at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
2. Make sure you have blank pages
Some countries require 1–2 blank passport pages.
3. Don’t wait until the last minute
Passport processing times can change depending on demand.
Final Thoughts
Getting a passport may feel like a small step, but it’s an essential one if you’re planning international travel.
Once you have it, a world of travel opportunities opens up. And if you’re planning a trip abroad and want help designing an itinerary, choosing the right hotels, or navigating travel logistics, that’s where working with a travel advisor can make the process much easier.
Happy Travels!
Lynette
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