What to Bring to Your Passport Appointment

Documents you must bring

Bring your completed passport application form — either Form DS-11 (in person at a passport agency or court) or Form DS-82 (by mail, if you are renewing). You can fill this out before you arrive or at the acceptance facility, but having it done saves time. Print it or bring it on your phone; the acceptance agent will tell you if they need a physical copy.

Bring proof of citizenship. This is a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport. The birth certificate must be an official copy with a raised seal or embossed seal — a photocopy or certified copy from a hospital does not count. If you were born outside the United States, bring your naturalization papers or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, state ID, or military ID works. If you do not have one, bring a second form of ID — a school ID, work badge, or Social Security card — plus a document that shows your name and address, like a utility bill or lease.

Bring proof of your address if your ID does not show where you currently live. A recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last few months works. A piece of mail from a government agency is also acceptable.

Key Takeaways

• Your birth certificate must have a raised or embossed seal — photocopies and hospital copies are not accepted.
• Fill out your application form before you arrive to move through the appointment faster.
• Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address if your ID is outdated.
• If you are renewing by mail, you do not need to attend an appointment, but you still need the same documents.
• Bring the exact payment amount in cash, check, or money order — the acceptance facility may not accept card payments.

Photos and payment

Bring a passport photo unless you are renewing by mail and your previous passport photo is less than six months old. The photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. You must be facing the camera directly, with a neutral expression and both eyes open. Glasses are allowed if they do not create a glare, and you cannot wear a hat or head covering unless it is for religious reasons.

You can get a passport photo at most drugstores (CVS, Walgreens), post offices, or online services. Bring the printed photo to your appointment — digital copies are not accepted at the counter.

Bring payment for the passport fee. The amount depends on the type of passport and whether you are applying for the first time or renewing. Bring cash, a check, or a money order made out to the U.S. Department of State. Some acceptance facilities do not take card payments, so cash is the safest option. Ask when you schedule your appointment whether they accept checks or only cash.

What to bring if you are renewing

If you are renewing your passport by mail, you do not attend an appointment — you mail your documents instead. Bring your previous passport, the completed Form DS-82, a new photo (unless your old one is less than six months old), and payment. Include a prepaid return envelope or add postage to the envelope you send.

If you are renewing in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility, bring the same documents as a first-time applicant, plus your previous passport. If your passport was lost or stolen, bring a police report instead.

What to bring if you are applying for a minor

If you are applying for a child under 16, bring both parents or legal guardians to the appointment, or bring a notarized consent form from the absent parent. Bring the child's birth certificate, a photo of the child, and proof of the child's citizenship. You will also need to show your own ID and proof of your relationship to the child — a birth certificate, adoption papers, or court order.

If you are the sole custodian, bring court documents that show you have sole legal custody. If the other parent is deceased, bring a death certificate.

Documents to bring if your name has changed

If you have changed your name since your last passport or birth certificate, bring proof of the name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. Bring the original or a certified copy — a photocopy is not accepted.

If you changed your name through marriage and your birth certificate still shows your maiden name, that is normal and acceptable. Bring both the birth certificate and the marriage certificate to show the connection.

What not to bring (and what happens if you forget something)

Do not bring originals of documents you need to keep, like your Social Security card or naturalization certificate, unless you are willing to lose them. The acceptance agent will not return them. Bring certified copies instead if you have them.

If you arrive without a required document, the acceptance agent will tell you what is missing and may reschedule your appointment or ask you to return with the document. You will not lose your appointment fee, but you will have to come back. Call ahead if you think something might be missing — the acceptance facility can confirm what you need before you make the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital photo on my phone instead of a printed one?

No. You must bring a printed 2 by 2 inch photo. The acceptance agent will not accept a digital copy or a photo on your phone. If you forgot to print your photo, most acceptance facilities have a photo service on-site or nearby where you can get one printed while you wait.

What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?

It will not be accepted. You need an official copy with a raised or embossed seal. Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born and request a certified copy with a seal. This usually takes one to two weeks by mail.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. Your Social Security number will be on your application form, but you do not need to bring the card itself. Bringing it is a security risk, so leave it at home.

What if I do not have a government-issued photo ID?

Bring two other forms of ID instead — a school ID, work badge, library card, or Social Security card — plus a document showing your name and current address, like a utility bill or lease. The acceptance agent will review what you have and tell you if it is acceptable.

Can someone else bring my documents if I cannot attend?

No. You must be present at your appointment in person. The only exception is for minors under 16, where a parent or legal guardian attends on their behalf. If you cannot make your appointment, reschedule it before the date.