How to fill out the DS-11 form correctly: a step-by-step applicant guide

How to fill out the DS-11 form correctly: a step-by-step applicant guide

If you need to apply for US passport for the first time (or must use the DS-11 for another qualifying reason), this guide walks you through DS-11 form instructions, passport photo requirements, passport fees and payment, how to find a passport acceptance facility near me, passport appointment booking, and what to expect at submission. Read the practical steps and use the checklist at the end to avoid common errors that delay processing.

Quick overview: Who uses the DS-11?

The DS-11 is used by first-time adult applicants, children under age 16, applicants whose previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged, and people whose previous passport was issued when they were under 16 or more than 15 years ago. Do not sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent — that’s a common mistake.

Before you start: what you’ll need

Gather these items before you begin filling out the DS-11 form. Missing documents are the top cause of delays.

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. passport).
• Primary photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or military ID) and a photocopy of the front and back on plain white paper.
• One passport photo that meets official specs (see Passport photo requirements below).
• Payment for passport fees and execution fee — check acceptable payment methods with your acceptance facility.
• Completed but unsigned DS-11 form (you must sign in front of the agent).

Step-by-step DS-11 form instructions

1. Get the form: Download the official DS-11 from the U.S. Department of State website or pick up a copy at the acceptance facility. Filling the PDF online and printing produces a clean, legible copy.

2. Fill printed fields carefully: Use black ink if you handwrite. Type entries if you fill the PDF digitally. Enter names exactly as on your citizenship evidence. Use full legal names — no nicknames.

3. Do not sign the form yet: The DS-11 must be signed in front of the acceptance agent when you submit the application. Signing early will make the application invalid and require you to reapply.

4. Complete parental consent section (for minors): Both parents or guardians typically must appear and sign for applicants under 16. Read the DS-11 instructions for exceptions and who must accompany minors.

5. Attach the photo and required identification: Bring originals and photocopies of required documents; the agent will inspect originals and keep copies.

6. Pay fees: See Fees and payment below. You will typically pay the application fee payable to the U.S. Department of State and an execution/acceptance fee payable to the facility or acceptance agent.

7. Sign in front of the agent: The agent will witness your signature, administer an oath if required, and accept the completed DS-11. They will provide a receipt with instructions to track your passport application later.

Required documents checklist (bring originals and copies)

• Original proof of U.S. citizenship and one photocopy (front and back) of the document.
• Primary photo identification (original) plus photocopy.
• One passport photo (see specifications below).
• Evidence of name change (marriage certificate, court order), if applicable.
• Parental consent documentation for minors where required.

Passport photo requirements (follow these exactly)

Passport photo rules are strict. Photos that don’t meet specifications cause rejections and delays. Use a professional passport photo service or follow the rules closely if taking your own photo.

• Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
• Recent: Taken within the last 6 months.
• Background: Plain white or off-white, no patterns, shadows, or objects.
• Face position: Full face, centered, head size should be between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
• Expression: Neutral expression or natural smile; both eyes open.
• Glasses: No glasses allowed for new passport applications unless a signed medical statement is provided (very limited exceptions).
• Head coverings: Allowed only for religious reasons; the face must be fully visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead and both edges of the face.
• Clothing: No uniforms or camouflage. Everyday clothing is fine.

Passport fees and payment

Fees are split between the U.S. Department of State application fee and a separate execution (acceptance) fee. Typical fee structure for first-time adult applicants (as of mid-2024) is:

• Passport book application fee: $130 (payable to 'U.S. Department of State').
• Passport card (optional): $30 additional.
• Execution/acceptance fee: $35 (payable to the acceptance facility in many cases).
• Expedited processing: Additional $60 if you need faster action from the State Department.

Payment methods vary by acceptance facility. The Department of State fees are typically paid by check or money order to 'U.S. Department of State'. The execution fee is often accepted by check, cash, or card by the local facility — check the facility’s website before you go. If you need your passport sooner, consider expedited options; learn more about expediting in our guide The Future of Passport Renewal: How to Expedite Your Process or work with local services for last-minute needs here.

Finding a passport acceptance facility and booking an appointment

Use the Department of State’s online 'Passport Acceptance Facility Search' to find a passport acceptance facility near you. Many post offices, clerks’ offices, and public libraries serve as acceptance facilities.

• Call to confirm hours and payment options before you go.
• Book a passport appointment booking online if available—walk-ins may be accepted but can require long waits.
• Bring all originals, copies, the unsigned DS-11, photo, and payments.

What to expect at the acceptance facility

Arrive 10–15 minutes early with all documents. Expect the agent to:

• Review and inspect originals and copies.
• Verify your identity and citizenship documents.
• Have you swear or affirm your identity and sign the DS-11 in their presence.
• Collect two payments: one to the Department of State and one for the execution fee (facility dependent).
• Give you a receipt with a tracking number and estimated processing times.

Common errors and how to avoid them

• Signing the DS-11 before arriving — do not sign until you are in front of the acceptance agent.
• Submitting photocopies instead of originals for proof of citizenship — originals are required.
• Using an incorrect or non-compliant passport photo; get it taken professionally if unsure.
• Failing to bring proper payment forms or the right payee names — verify exact payment instructions with the facility.
• Missing parental consent for minors — both parents typically must appear or provide notarized consent.

After submission: track passport application and processing times

After the acceptance facility sends your package to the State Department you can track your passport application online using the Department of State’s passport status tool. It usually takes 7–10 business days after acceptance for the status to appear online.

Processing times change with demand. As of mid-2024, routine passport processing is commonly around 8–11 weeks and expedited processing generally reduces that to roughly 5–7 weeks. If your travel is imminent, use expedited services and consider contacting the closest passport agency. For last-minute emergency travel see tips on working with local services to expedite your passport.

Practical checklist before you leave home

• Completed DS-11 (unsigned).
• Original citizenship evidence + photocopy on white paper.
• Primary photo ID + photocopy.
• One compliant passport photo.
• Correct fee amounts and acceptable payment forms.
• Parental documentation for minors, if applicable.
• Appointment confirmation and directions to the facility.

Final tips for travelers, commuters, and outdoor adventurers

Don’t wait — apply early so your passport is ready before peak travel or seasonal adventures. Scan copies of your passport and travel documents and store them securely; see our guide on Document Scanning and Secure Submission for best practices. If you plan international trips while working remotely, learn how to coordinate document readiness in advance here.

With correct preparation and attention to the DS-11 form instructions, your application will move through the system smoothly. Use this article as your step-by-step checklist and consult the official Department of State resources for the latest fee and processing updates.