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International Programs  :  International Travel Tips - Passports

Passports

New Application for a US Passport

To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go to an acceptance facility, such as a post office, in person with two photographs, proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of name change (if applicable), and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license.  You will need to apply in person if:

  • You are applying for a US passport for the first time
  • Your previous US passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
  • Your previous US passport has expired and was issued more than 15 years ago
  • Your previous passport has expired and was issued when you were under 16 years old
  • Your name has changed since your passport was issued and you do not have a legal document formally changing your name

To apply in person for a US passport you must provide Application for Passport, Form DS-11. Forms can also be obtained from any passport agency or acceptance facility. Note: Please do not sign the DS-11 application form until the Passport Acceptance Agent instructs you to do so.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

You may prove US Citizenship with any one of the following originals with seal, if applicable.

  • Previous US passport  - mutilated, altered, or damaged passports are not acceptable
  • Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state
  • Consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth
  • Naturalization certificate
  • Certificate of citizenship

Proof of Identity

You may prove your identity with any one of the items if the image is clearly recognizable. Note: Your Social Security Card does not prove your identity.

  • Previous US passport
  • Naturalization Certificate
  • Current, valid which includes:
  • Driver’s license
  • Government ID: city, state, or federal
  • Military ID: military and dependents

Passport Photos and Fees

Remember two photos are needed to obtain a passport. Applicable fees can be found online.

Renewal of a U.S. Passport

You can renew by mail if your most recent passport is available to submit and it:

  1. Was issued when you were 16 or older
  2. Was issued in the last 15 years
  3. Is not damaged
  4. Is submitted with your application

Renewing by mail

  1. Complete "Application For Passport By Mail," Form DS-82. Be sure to sign and date your application. If you need your passport urgently, you may request Expedited Service. Your previous passport will be returned to you with your new passport.
  2. Attach your application to:
    • Your most recent passport,
    • Two identical passport photographs, and
    • The applicable fee payable to the U.S. Department of State
  3. If your name has changed since your passport was issued:
    • Enclose a certified copy of the legal document specifying your name change (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption decree, or court order). If your name has changed by other means, you must apply in person
    • No photocopies accepted
  4. Mail in a padded envelope to:

    5. National Passport Processing
    P.O. Box 90155
    Piladelphia, PA 19190-0155

  5. If you use an overnight delivery service that does not deliver to a post office box, please send to the following address.  Note: Include a prepaid overnight return envelope. Overnight service will not speed up processing time unless the appropriate fee for expedited service is also included.

    National Passport Processing
    P.O. Box 90955
    Piladelphia, PA 19190-0155