To get a (first‑time) U.S. passport, you generally need four main things: the right form, proof of citizenship, proof of identity, a compliant photo, and money for the fees.

What Do You Need to Get a Passport?

Quick Scoop

If you’re applying for your first U.S. passport as an adult, you’ll usually need:

  • Completed Form DS‑11 (unsigned until you’re in front of the agent).
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (for example, a certified U.S. birth certificate or naturalization certificate).
  • A valid photo ID (like a driver’s license) plus photocopies.
  • One passport photo that meets official rules (2×2 inches, recent, correct background).
  • Payment for the application and processing (execution) fees.
  • In person appearance at a passport acceptance facility (post office, clerk of court, etc.).

For kids under 16, both parents usually need to be involved and show ID, plus the child’s birth certificate.

1. The Form You Need

For most first‑time applicants, the key form is DS‑11.

  • Fill it out online or by hand following the official instructions, but don’t sign it until the passport agent tells you to.
  • You print it and bring it with you to your appointment.

If you already had a passport and are just renewing by mail, you might use a different form, but for “what do you need to get a passport” most people are asking about DS‑11.

2. Proof of Citizenship

You must show you are a U.S. citizen or national, with an original or certified document.

Common options:

  • Certified U.S. birth certificate (from city, county, or state, with official seal, registrar info, and your full name and date of birth).
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad (if you were born outside the U.S. to U.S. citizen parents).
  • Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship (if you became a citizen later).
  • A fully valid U.S. passport (even if expired) can also serve as citizenship proof if you’re not a first‑timer.

You normally also bring a photocopy of this document (front and back if there’s info on both sides).

3. Proof of Identity

You also need to prove who you are with a valid photo ID that matches the name on your application.

Acceptable primary IDs typically include:

  • State driver’s license.
  • State ID card.
  • Government or military ID.

You also bring a clear photocopy of that ID (front and back) on plain 8.5"×11" paper.

Some people also bring their Social Security card as a secondary ID, which can be helpful even if not strictly required everywhere.

4. Passport Photo Requirements

You need one recent passport‑style photo that follows the official rules.

Key requirements:

  • Size: 2×2 inches.
  • Background: plain white or off‑white, no patterns.
  • Expression: neutral or a natural smile, eyes open, facing the camera straight on.
  • No filters, headphones, or busy backgrounds; glasses usually not allowed.

You can get these at many drugstores, photo centers, or dedicated passport photo services; some guides show how to do it yourself if you follow all the rules.

5. Fees and How You Pay

To get a passport, you must pay both an application fee (for the passport book or card) and usually an execution (acceptance) fee if you are applying in person for the first time.

Typical structure:

  • Passport book fee (goes to the U.S. Department of State).
  • Optional passport card fee (cheaper but limited travel use).
  • Execution/acceptance fee (paid at the facility where you submit the application).

Some places require checks or money orders and may not accept all card types, so it’s wise to check what your local facility accepts before you go.

6. Extra Rules for Kids

If you’re asking “what do you need to get a passport” for a child under 16 , there are extra protections.

For minors, usually:

  • The child must appear in person.
  • Both parents or guardians show valid photo ID and give consent; if one can’t be present, extra paperwork is needed.
  • You submit the child’s certified birth certificate or similar citizenship proof.
  • You still provide a passport photo and pay the applicable child fees.

These rules are meant to prevent one parent from getting a passport for a child without the other knowing.

7. Real‑World Tips from Forums

Recent forum discussions show that many first‑time applicants feel overwhelmed but find the process manageable once they break it into steps.

Common tips people share:

  • Double‑check that your birth certificate is an official certified copy with a seal, not a hospital souvenir.
  • Use the online DS‑11 form filler to reduce mistakes and stress.
  • Bring more than you think you’ll need (extra ID, Social Security card, etc.) if it makes you feel calmer, even if not all of it is required.
  • Schedule an appointment at a post office or other acceptance facility to avoid long waits where possible.

One poster even noted that getting a passport ended up feeling easier than getting their driver’s license once they had a clear checklist.

Mini Step‑by‑Step Checklist

Here’s a simple flow many people follow for a first‑time passport:

  1. Gather proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization paper, etc.) and make photocopies.
  1. Gather your primary photo ID and make photocopies.
  1. Get a passport‑compliant photo taken.
  1. Complete Form DS‑11, print it, and keep it unsigned.
  1. Check current fees and acceptable payment methods for your local acceptance facility.
  1. Make an appointment at a passport acceptance location (if required in your area).
  1. Go in person, sign the form there, pay, and submit your documents.

Bottom Note

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.