In order to obtain a passport, there are several documents that are required to prove your identity and citizenship. These documents vary depending on whether you are applying for a passport for the first time, renewing an expired passport, or applying for a child’s passport.
For first-time applicants, the following documents are typically required:
1. Proof of U.S. citizenship – This can be a certified birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship.
2. Valid photo ID – This can be a driver’s license, state ID, or military ID.
3. Passport photo – You will need to submit a recent passport-sized photo that meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.
In addition to these documents, applicants will also need to fill out Form DS-11, which is the application for a U.S. passport. This form can be filled out online and printed, or obtained from a passport acceptance facility.
For passport renewal, the following documents are typically required:
1. Expired passport – You will need to submit your most recent passport, even if it has expired.
2. Passport photo – A recent passport-sized photo that meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State is required.
3. Form DS-82 – This is the application for passport renewal, which can be filled out online and printed, or obtained from a passport acceptance facility.
If you are renewing your passport in person, you may also need to provide proof of travel plans, such as a plane ticket or itinerary.
For child passports, the following documents are typically required:
1. Proof of child’s citizenship – This can be a certified birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship.
2. Proof of parentage – This can be a birth certificate listing the child’s parents, a court order establishing custody, or a adoption decree.
3. Valid photo ID of parents – Both parents will need to provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
4. Passport photo of the child – A recent passport-sized photo of the child that meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State is required.
5. Form DS-11 – This is the application for a U.S. passport for a child, which can be filled out online and printed, or obtained from a passport acceptance facility.
It is important to note that all documents must be originals or certified copies, and cannot be photocopies. Additionally, the passport application process may vary depending on the applicant’s age, whether they are a first-time applicant or renewing their passport, and whether they are applying for a regular passport or an expedited passport.
Overall, the documents required to obtain a passport are essential for proving an individual’s identity and citizenship, and for ensuring the security and validity of the passport issuance process. By submitting the necessary documents and following the proper application procedures, applicants can obtain a U.S. passport for travel and identification purposes.
