New Passport Instructions

Eligibility Requirements

This service is for first-time passport applicants and individuals who cannot use Form DS-82 to renew a passport.

You may qualify if:

  • You have never been issued a U.S. passport.
  • Your previous passport was issued before your 16th birthday.
  • Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged and cannot be submitted.
  • Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

All new passport applicants must apply using Form DS-11 and appear in person before a Passport Acceptance Agent.

I. Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Provide one of the following original documents:

  • Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
  • Naturalization Certificate
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Photocopies are not accepted as primary proof of citizenship.

II. Proof of Identification

Provide one of the following:

  • Current Driver’s License
  • State-Issued Photo Identification Card
  • Government-Issued Photo Identification

If you do not have primary identification, supplemental identification documents may be required.

III. Passport Photo

You must provide:

  • One recent passport photo
  • Color photo
  • White or off-white background
  • Taken within the last six months

Passport photos are available at many FedEx Office, Walgreens, CVS, UPS Store, and local passport photo locations.

IV. Passport Application

Complete:

Form DS-11 – Application for a U.S. Passport

Do not sign the application until instructed by the Passport Acceptance Agent.

For best results, type the application online and print the completed form with the barcode.

V. Government Fees

Government Check Amount: $212.05

Make your check or money order payable to:

U.S. Department of State

The $212.05 includes:

  • Passport Application Fee: $130.00
  • Expedited Processing Fee: $60.00
  • Return Overnight Shipping with Tracking: $22.05

In addition, the Passport Acceptance Agent will collect a separate:

Execution Fee: $35.00

VI. 48HourPassport Service Fees

Urgent Service

2–6 Days + Shipping Time

  • $399 Service Fee
  • $21 Credit Card Processing Fee

Rush Service

7+ Days + Shipping Time

  • $349 Service Fee
  • $21 Credit Card Processing Fee

Real ID / U.S. Travel Alternative

  • $299 Service Fee
  • $21 Credit Card Processing Fee

VII. Passport Acceptance Appointment

All new passport applicants must appear in person before a Passport Acceptance Agent.

The Acceptance Agent will:

  • Verify your identity
  • Review your supporting documents
  • Witness your signature
  • Administer the required oath
  • Seal your application package

Passport Acceptance Agents can be found at:

  • U.S. Post Offices
  • County Clerk Offices
  • Public Libraries
  • Municipal Government Offices

VIII. Shipping Your Documents

After your Passport Acceptance Appointment, ship your sealed application package according to the instructions provided by 48HourPassport.com.

Do not open the sealed envelope provided by the Passport Acceptance Agent.

Use an overnight shipping service with tracking to help ensure timely delivery.

IX. Common Reasons Applications Are Delayed

  • Missing signatures
  • Incorrect passport photos
  • Missing proof of citizenship
  • Incomplete DS-11 application
  • Incorrect government fees
  • Failure to submit original citizenship documents
  • Damaged or illegible supporting documents

Carefully reviewing your application before shipping can help avoid unnecessary delays.