To apply for a U.S. passport, follow these steps:

1. Determine if you need to apply in person or by mail

- **In Person:** You must apply in person if:

- You’re applying for your first U.S. passport.

- You’re under 16 years old.

- Your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under 16.

- Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.

- Your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

- **By Mail:** You can renew your passport by mail if you meet the eligibility requirements (e.g., your passport was issued within the last 15 years, and it’s undamaged).

2. Gather the Required Documents

- **Proof of U.S. Citizenship** (one of the following):

- Certified birth certificate.

- Previous U.S. passport.

- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship.

- Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

- **Proof of Identity** (one of the following):

- Valid driver's license.

- Current government-issued ID (military ID, etc.).

- Previous U.S. passport.

- **Passport Photo:**

- A 2x2 inch color photo taken within the last 6 months.

- Follow specific guidelines (neutral expression, plain background, no glasses).

- **Completed Passport Application Form**:

- **Form DS-11** for first-time applicants.

- **Form DS-82** for renewals.

- Do NOT sign the form until instructed to do so in person.

3. Submit Your Application

- **In Person:**

- Bring the completed **Form DS-11**, supporting documents, photo, and fees to a **passport acceptance facility** (U.S. Post Office, Clerk of Court, or other designated locations).

- **By Mail (Renewal Only):**

- Mail **Form DS-82** with your old passport, photo, and fees to the address on the form.

4. Pay the Passport Fees

- **Application Fee:**

- $130 for a passport book.

- $30 for a passport card (for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda).

- **Execution Fee:** (only for in-person applications) $35.

- **Expedited Service:** Add $60 if you need your passport faster (4-6 weeks).

5. Track Your Application

- Use the **U.S. Department of State’s website** to track your passport status after applying: [passportstatus.state.gov](https://passportstatus.state.gov).

6. Receive Your Passport

- Standard processing takes **8-11 weeks**.

- Expedited processing takes **4-6 weeks** (for an additional fee).

- If you need your passport urgently (within 14 days), you can schedule an appointment at a **passport agency**.

For more detailed instructions or to locate passport acceptance facilities, visit the official U.S. Department of State website: [travel.state.gov](https://travel.state.gov).