HelloGov + iVisa have merged to create the world's largest passport and visa company. Read more →

hellogov
Start Application
Resources

U.S. Passport Requirements — Complete Guide

Comprehensive breakdown of DS-82 renewal, DS-11 new application, child passports, fees, and processing times.

Start Passport Application
passport hero meta
passport hero meta
Application Types

Passport application types

Choose the application type that matches your situation — renewal, first-time, or child.

DS-82

Renewal (DS-82)

Apply by mail if you have a current or recently expired passport.

Eligibility summary:
  • Had passport issued when 16+
  • Issued within last 15 years
  • Not damaged or altered
  • Same name (or legal name change docs)
DS-11

New/First Time (DS-11)

First-time applicants or those who don't qualify for renewal.

Eligibility summary:
  • Never had a U.S. passport
  • Previous passport lost/stolen/damaged
  • Passport issued 15+ years ago
DS-11

Child Passport

For minors under 16. Both parents must consent.

Eligibility summary:
  • Child under 16
  • Both parents present or notarized consent
  • Valid for 5 years only
passport hero meta
2026 Merger

Our Complete Guide simplifies all US passport requirements, helping 1.5 million+ travelers annually navigate complex applications, photo rules, and processing times across 50 states with 100% up-to-date expert accuracy.

A trusted application ecosystem delivering verified insights to accelerate your passport journey with speed and accuracy.

Form DS-11

DS-11 New Application — Complete Breakdown

Apply in person when renewal is not an option.

Who Needs This
  • First-time applicants
  • Under 16 (child passport)
  • Previous passport lost, stolen, or damaged
  • Previous passport issued 15+ years ago
Required Documents
  • Proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
  • Valid photo ID (driver's license)
  • One passport photo (2×2 inches)
  • DS-11 form
Fees
  • Book: $130 + $35 acceptance fee
  • Card: $30 + $35 acceptance fee
  • Book + Card: $160 + $35 acceptance fee
  • Expedite: $60 (optional)
  • Under 16: $100 + $35 acceptance fee
REQUIREMENTS
Other requirements

Additional documentation and specific conditions required to successfully complete your application.

Child Passport Requirements

Special rules apply for minors under 16.

  • Both parents must consent (or provide sole custody documentation)
  • Child must appear in person at acceptance facility
  • Child passport is valid for 5 years (not 10 like adult)
  • Proof of relationship required (birth certificate, adoption decree)

If one parent cannot appear, they must submit Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) with a notarized signature. For sole legal custody situations, court documentation is required.

Photo Requirements

Photos must meet strict specifications or your application may be delayed.

  • Size: 2×2 inches
  • Head height: 1–1.375 inches from chin to top of head
  • Background: Plain white or off-white
  • Recency: Taken within last 6 months
  • No glasses
  • No headcoverings (unless for religious purposes; must not obscure face)
  • Neutral expression, eyes open
  • Full face visible, front view
passport hero meta
INTEGRATION
Processing Timeline Comparison

Compare processing methods and associated fees.

Standard Service

Routine Processing

Source / LaneSchema Target
InputStandard mail inputmail/standard
OutputProcessing time outputtime/6-8_wks
Processing Details
  • Fees: Book $130, Card $30
  • Notes: Standard mail processing
Priority Service

Expedited Processing

Source / LaneSchema Target
InputPriority mail inputmail/priority
OutputProcessing time outputtime/2-3_wks
Processing Details
  • Fees: + $60 expedite
  • Notes: Priority handling
Urgent Service

Agency/Center

Source / LaneSchema Target
InputAgency visit inputvisit/agency
OutputProcessing time outputtime/24_hrs
Processing Details
  • Fees: + $60 expedite + appt
  • Notes: HelloGov courier option

Processing times are estimates from the U.S. Department of State and may vary based on demand. HelloGov expedited courier service can deliver in as little as 24 hours for urgent travel.

Sydney AI

AI Support

Sydney helps applicants complete forms accurately, answers policy FAQs in plain language, and routes uncertain cases to a specialist before they become delays.

ChatIn App
Your number
+1 (555) 000-0000

Available 24/7 — a real person is always one step away...

Sydney AI can guide you through form selection, document checklist verification, and fee calculation based on your specific situation. Ask about DS-82 vs DS-11 eligibility, photo requirements, or expedited options. Available 24/7 for quick answers.

Structured Data
JSON-LD for Passport Requirements

Works with any runtime that supports fetch and JSON Schema validation. No SDK required.

VALIDATION_AGENT.JS
import Ajv from "ajv";
import addFormats from "ajv-formats";

// 1. Fetch the schema
const schema = await fetch(
  "https://govschema.org/schema/visa/lanes/US-BR.json"
).then((r) => r.json);

// 2. Compile validator
const ajv = new Ajv({ allErrors: true, strict: true });
addFormats(ajv);
const validate = ajv.compile(schema);

// 3. Validate agent output
const draft = await agent.invoke({
  input: "Prepare a Brazil tourist visa application",
  responseSchema: schema,
});

if (!validate(draft)) {
  // Handle remediation
  console.log(validate.errors);
}

// 4. Submit
await fetch("https://api.hellogov.com/v1/submit", {
  method: "POST",
  headers: { "Content-Type": "application/json" },
  body: JSON.stringify({
    lane: "visa/US-BR",
    schemaVersion: schema.schema_version,
    payload: draft,
    correlationId: crypto.randomUUID(),
  }),
});
passport hero meta
FAQ

Passport requirement FAQs

Common questions about passport renewals, new applications, and child passports.

  • 62 ArticlesAbout HelloGov
  • 62 ArticlesCouriers and Agencies
  • 62 ArticlesWhy HelloGov
  • 62 ArticlesOur Services
Top Questions

  • Renewing your passport usually takes between 4-6 weeks, or 2-3 weeks if you choose to use an expedited processing service for urgent travel needs. But even with quicker services like priority mail express for faster document shipping, common errors can slow down your application.

    That's where HelloGov comes into its own.

    When you apply for your passport renewal through HelloGov, you'll be able to complete your application, get your forms and supporting documents checked for any errors and then print and send your application — all in around 10-15 minutes. You'll then receive your passport in as little as 3 days.

  • To renew your passport, most applicants need:
    • A completed DS-82 form
    • Your most recent passport
    • One passport photo taken within the last six months
    • Any relevant citizenship documents
    • The renewal fee
    • Any additional documentation if your name has changed since your last passport was issued

  • If you're applying for a passport for the first time, you'll need to submit your application in person. Usually, you'll need to download the DS-11 form from the Department of State or pick one up from your local post office.

    But with HelloGov, you can complete your application form online at home, scan any citizenship documents or supporting documents and then print everything off before your appointment. Your AI assistant will also help you by checking your documents are correct and that you've signed your application form correctly.

  • To apply for a new passport, you'll need:
    • A completed DS-11 application form for first-time applicants
    • Proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
    • A valid form of photo identification (such as a driver's license)
    • One passport photo that meets the required standards
    • Payment for the passport fee and any additional service fees, if applicable

  • Applying for a minor's passport requires in-person application for anyone under the age of 16. Typically, you'd fill out the DS-11 form from the Department of State or pick one up at your local post office.

    With HelloGov, the process is much more straightforward. You can complete the DS-11 application form for your child online, scan any required citizenship documents or supporting documents, and print everything from the comfort of your home. Our AI assistants make sure all your documents are accurate and that your application form is signed correctly.

  • Children's passports are valid for 5 years. Unlike adult passports that are valid for 10 years, passports issued to children under the age of 16 are valid for a shorter period. This is because children's appearances change a lot as they grow.

Get Started

Expedite your passport through
our AI-powered platform

Whether you need a passport, visa, or want to partner with us — HelloGov makes it simple.

Start Application
HelloGov application dashboard showing a passport renewal in progress