Whether you’re planning an international vacation, studying abroad, or traveling for business, a U.S. passport is your key to crossing borders. Applying for or renewing your passport in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to digital forms, appointment scheduling, and online tracking options.
In this updated guide, you’ll learn how to apply for a U.S. passport step by step, what documents you’ll need, how much it costs, and how long it takes to receive it — including expedited options if you’re in a hurry.
1. Who Needs a U.S. Passport?
A U.S. passport is required for:
- All U.S. citizens traveling outside the United States by air.
- Dual citizens who wish to enter or exit the U.S. on their American passport.
- Children and infants — yes, even babies need their own passport to travel internationally.
For travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, a Passport Card may be sufficient if traveling by land or sea, but not by air.
2. Types of U.S. Passports
There are two main types of passports available:
- Passport Book:
Valid for international air, land, and sea travel.
Cost: around $130 (first-time adult applicants). - Passport Card:
Smaller, wallet-sized version for land and sea travel only (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean).
Cost: around $30 (adults).
You can apply for both at the same time if you often travel to nearby countries.
3. Passport Validity Periods
- Adults (age 16 and older): Valid for 10 years.
- Minors (under 16): Valid for 5 years.
Always check your expiration date — some countries require your passport to be valid at least 6 months beyond your travel date.
4. Required Documents for a U.S. Passport Application
Before applying, gather the following documents:
For First-Time Applicants
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship
- U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (for citizens born abroad)
- Proof of Identity
- Valid driver’s license
- Government or military ID
- Previous U.S. passport (if applicable)
- Passport Photo
- One recent color photo (2×2 inches)
- White background, no glasses, neutral expression
- Application Form (DS-11)
- Available online at travel.state.gov or at a passport acceptance facility.
- Must be completed but not signed until instructed by a passport acceptance agent.
5. How to Apply for a U.S. Passport (First-Time Applicants)
Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Complete Form DS-11
- Fill it out online or print and complete it by hand using black ink.
- Do not sign until you’re at your appointment.
- Prepare Your Documents and Payment
- Include your proof of citizenship, ID copy, and one passport photo.
- Payment must be made via check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
- Submit Your Application in Person
- Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility (usually at post offices, libraries, or courthouses).
- You can find nearby locations using the Passport Acceptance Facility Search.
- Pay the Fees
- Adult Passport Book: $130
- Passport Card: $30
- Execution Fee: $35 (for first-time applicants)
- Wait for Processing
- Standard processing time: 6–8 weeks
- Expedited processing: 2–3 weeks (additional $60 fee)
6. How to Renew a U.S. Passport
If your passport is expiring soon, you can renew it by mail using Form DS-82 if you meet the following conditions:
- Your passport is undamaged.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- You were 16 or older when it was issued.
- It’s issued in your current name or you can provide legal proof of a name change.
Renewal Steps:
- Complete Form DS-82 (available on travel.state.gov).
- Attach your most recent passport.
- Include one new passport photo.
- Enclose payment by check or money order.
- Mail your application to the address listed on the form.
✅ Tip: You can track the status of your passport renewal on the official U.S. Department of State website.
7. Expedited Passport Services (2025 Update)
If you need your passport quickly, you have two main options:
- Expedited Service by Mail:
Add $60 to your application fee and mark “EXPEDITE” on the envelope.
Processing time: 2–3 weeks. - Urgent Travel Appointment:
If you have international travel within 14 days, you can schedule an appointment at a Passport Agency by calling 1-877-487-2778.
Bring proof of travel (flight confirmation, itinerary, etc.).
Some private passport expediting companies can also assist, but verify that they are authorized by the U.S. Department of State.
8. Common Passport Mistakes to Avoid
Even small mistakes can delay your application. Here are some of the most frequent ones:
- Using a blurry or non-compliant photo (wrong background, smiling, wearing glasses).
- Signing the form before arriving at the acceptance facility.
- Submitting damaged documents or uncertified copies.
- Forgetting to include fees or the correct payment format.
✅ Tip: Always double-check your paperwork before submission to prevent rejections.
9. Passport Renewal for Minors
Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians present.
You’ll need:
- The child’s birth certificate (showing both parents’ names)
- Proof of parental identity (IDs)
- A new photo
- Completed Form DS-11
Minors’ passports cannot be renewed by mail — you must submit a new application each time.
10. How to Check Your Passport Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its progress online at:
👉 https://travel.state.gov/passportstatus
You’ll need:
- Your last name
- Date of birth
- Last four digits of your Social Security Number
Statuses usually appear after 2 weeks and will update as your passport moves through processing.
11. Passport Fees Overview (2025)
| Type | Application Fee | Execution Fee | Total (First-Time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Book (Adult) | $130 | $35 | $165 |
| Passport Card (Adult) | $30 | $35 | $65 |
| Passport Book (Minor) | $100 | $35 | $135 |
| Expedited Service | +$60 | — | +$60 |
| 1–2 Day Delivery | +$20 | — | +$20 |
✅ Pro Tip: You can pay for expedited processing and overnight shipping for faster delivery.
12. Conclusion
Applying for or renewing a U.S. passport in 2025 is a straightforward process — as long as you have your documents ready and follow the correct steps.
Here’s a quick recap:
- First-time applicants must apply in person with Form DS-11.
- Renewals can often be done by mail using Form DS-82.
- Standard processing takes 6–8 weeks, while expedited options can deliver in as little as 2–3 weeks.
Whether you’re renewing for future travel or applying for the first time, being prepared and following the official U.S. Department of State guidelines will save you time, money, and stress.
✈️ Pro Tip: Don’t wait until your trip is booked — start your passport process at least 3 months in advance to avoid last-minute issues.