Get Ready for Your Passport Appointment

Having the right documents with you can help make your passport appointment quick and easy.

Requirements vary based on the applicant's age and circumstances. Select the option below that applies to you to see what you'll need for your appointment.

Adult Applicants

First-time adult applicants age 18 and older OR adults who do not qualify for renewal because their passport was: (1) lost, stolen, or damaged, (2) issued over 15 years ago, or (3) issued when they were under age 16.

Adult Passport Appointment Checklist

Bring the following to your appointment:

Applicant
The applicant must appear in person for the passport appointment.
Completed Form DS-11
Complete and print your passport application before your appointment. Do not sign the application until instructed by a passport acceptance agent.
Original Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Bring an original or certified physical document showing U.S. citizenship, such as an eligible U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship, or qualifying previous U.S. passport.
Physical Photo ID
Bring an acceptable physical photo ID. If you do not have an acceptable primary photo ID, additional identification may be required.
Passport Photo
Bring one passport-compliant photo of your child, or add passport photo service to your UC San Diego appointment.
Payment
Be prepared to make separate payments for the U.S. Department of State application fee and the passport acceptance facility fee.

Applicant Ages 16 - 17

Applicants ages 16–17 have additional requirements, including showing that (1) parent or legal guardian is aware of the passport application.

Ages 16 - 17 Passport Appointment Checklist

Bring the following to your appointment:

Applicant
The applicant must appear in person for the passport appointment.
Completed Form DS-11
Complete and print your passport application before your appointment. Do not sign the application until instructed by a passport acceptance agent.
Original Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Bring an original or certified physical document showing U.S. citizenship, such as an eligible U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship, or qualifying previous U.S. passport.
Physical Photo ID
Bring an acceptable physical photo ID. If you do not have an acceptable primary photo ID, additional identification may be required.
Parental Awareness
At least one parent or legal guardian must be aware that you are applying for a passport. View accepted awareness methods.
Passport Photo
Bring one passport-compliant photo of your child, or add passport photo service to your UC San Diego appointment.
Payment
Be prepared to make separate payments for the U.S. Department of State application fee and the passport acceptance facility fee.

Children Under Age 16

Applicants under age 16 must apply in person with both of their parents or legal guardians. Passports for children under age 16 are valid for 5 years.

Child Passport Appointment Checklist

Bring the following to your appointment:

Your Child
Your child must be present at the passport appointment, regardless of age.
Completed Form DS-11
Complete and print a passport application for your child. Do not sign the application until instructed by a passport acceptance agent.
Original Proof of Your Child's U.S. Citizenship
Bring an original or certified physical document showing your child's U.S. citizenship, such as an eligible U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Citizenship, or qualifying previous U.S. passport.
Proof of Parental Relationship
Bring documentation showing the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child.
Parent or Guardian Photo ID
Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) appearing with the child must bring acceptable physical, government-issued photo identification.
Both Parents or Legal Guardians
Both parents or legal guardians must participate in the passport application process. If one or both parents or guardians cannot appear, additional consent or documentation will be required.
Passport Photo
Bring one passport-compliant photo of your child, or add passport photo service to your UC San Diego appointment.
Payment
Be prepared to make separate payments for the U.S. Department of State application fee and the passport acceptance facility fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring original documents or will copies work?

You must bring original or certified copies of your citizenship documents (such as an official birth certificate or naturalization certificate). They will be submitted with your application to the Department of State and mailed back to you separately 2 to 4 weeks after your new passport arrives.

Do I need to bring photocopies of my documents?

Yes. You should bring single-sided, black-and-white photocopies of:

The front and back of your photo ID
Your citizenship evidence (e.g., birth certificate)

Note: If you don't have photocopies, we offer photocopy services on-site for $2 per application.

Do I need to bring my own passport photo?

You can either bring your own physical 2x2-inch photo that meets Department of State guidelines or have your photo taken on-site during your appointment for $18, this service includes both physical and digital copies.

What happens if I forget a required document?

If you are missing any required original documents, IDs, or correct payment forms, we cannot process your application, and you may need to reschedule your appointment.

What types of photo ID are accepted?

Acceptable primary photo IDs include:

Valid Driver’s License
Military ID or Federal ID Card

Note: If you present a State issued Identification Card or an out-of-state driver's license, you must also present a secondary ID card showing your name (e.g., student ID, work ID, social security card).

What should I bring if my name is different from my citizenship document?

If your current legal name differs from the name on your birth certificate or citizenship evidence, you must bring original legal documentation proving the name change, such as a Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or Court Order.

What do I need if my previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged?

You cannot renew by mail and must apply in person using Form DS-11. In addition to your standard application requirements, you must submit Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport) detailing what happened to the passport.