How to apply for a Passport

Obtaining a passport isn’t very challenging. Following these steps will make the process easier:

Fill out form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport

Use this link to fill out online and print or to print and fill out by hand.

http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds11/ds11_842.html
DO NOT SIGN APPLICATION! You must sign when the Acceptance Agent asks you too.

Fill out everything! If you leave anything blank, including your Social Security Number, will result in significant delays or denial of application.

Submit DS-11

If this is the first time applying for a US passport you must submit the form in person at either an Acceptance Facility or a Passport Agency.

            To find an Acceptance Facility please check out

            http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/

            To find a Passport Agency please check out

            http://travel.state.gov/passport/npic/agencies/agencies_913.html

Evidence of U.S. Citizenship

Primary evidence includes on of the following:   

            Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport

            Certified birth certificate, issued by city, county or state

            Consular report of birth abroad or certificate of birth

            Naturalization Certificate

            Certificate of Citizenship

These items will be taken from you, and returned to you along with your approved U.S. passport or in a separate mailing.

Identification

Possible items include:

            Previously issued, undamaged U.S. passport

            Naturalization Certificate

            Valid Driver’s License

            Current Government ID (city, state or federal)

            Current Military ID (military and dependents)

Bring a photocopy of the front and back of each ID you present.

Pay the applicable fee

Current passport fees are:

            Adult Passport Book                  $110 Application fee+ $25 Execution fee

            Adult Passport Card                   $30 Application fee + $25 Execution fee

            Adult Passport Book and Card      $140 Application fee + $25 Execution fee

            Expedited Service                     $60 Additional fee

Picture
You will need to submit a passport picture. Many passport acceptance agencies offer this service on site, but you can get a picture for almost half as much at Walgreens. Right now it costs $9.99 for a set of two.
For more information please see http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html