One of the first things you should do after your naturalization ceremony is apply for your US passport. The US passport is one of the most powerful in the world, allowing you to travel to over 179 countries without a visa. Plus, if you ever encounter problems while traveling abroad, you can get help from US embassies or consulates.
But how do you apply for your first passport as an adult? How much will it cost? And how long will the process take?
Don’t worry – we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, step-by-step, so you can get your US passport without a hassle.
How to apply for a US passport
Being a US citizen has many benefits, and having a passport is one of the most important. The US passport is currently ranked 9th in the world by the Passport Index and allows you to travel to 179 countries without a visa.
But having a US passport isn’t just about easy travel – it also makes legal processes easier. It’s an official document that proves your citizenship, which means you can use it for certain legal procedures. And it’s a lot more convenient than carrying around your naturalization certificate.
Now, let’s review the steps for applying for your first US passport.
Filling out Form DS-11
The first thing you need to do is fill out Form DS-11: Application for a US Passport. You can:
- Fill it out online and print it
- Download Form DS-11 and complete it by hand
- Pick up a paper copy at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency
Important: Do not sign the form. You must sign it in person at your passport appointment when an acceptance agent instructs you to do so.
Provide Personal Documents
To apply for a US passport, you must submit certain documents and a photocopy of each one. These documents are:
Proof of US Citizenship
Your proof of citizenship is the most crucial document for your passport application. As you become a citizen through naturalization, you must submit your Certificate of Naturalization. But if you cannot provide this document, you may be able to provide a secondary proof of citizenship.
Check the US Department of State website for a list of acceptable alternatives.
Valid Identification
You must also provide a valid form of identification and a photocopy of both the front and back.
Commonly accepted forms of identification include a state-issued driver’s license or a valid foreign passport. Visit the US Department of State website for a complete list of accepted forms of identification.
Your document copies must meet these requirements:
- Black and white
- Standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper
- Single-sided printing (do not print on both sides)
Take a photo for your US passport application
Applying for a US passport requires a passport-style photo. Your photo must meet these requirements:
- Size 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- A recent color photograph (taken within the last 6 months).
- Your head should measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25 – 35 mm) from chin to top.
- The image must be clear and unedited (no filters, edits, or AI modifications.).
- No selfies are allowed; someone else must take the photo.
- You must not be wearing glasses.
- The background must be white or off-white, without shadows or textures.
You’ll need to include this photo in your application packet. But don’t staple or attach it to the form. A passport acceptance agent will check it and attach it properly.
Submit your US passport application
Where apply for US passport? Since this is your first US passport, you must apply in person at an official passport agency. These can be government offices, public libraries, or even some post offices.
Visit the US Department of State website to find the nearest passport agency.
What to bring to your appointment:
- Form DS-11 (unsigned until your appointment).
- Proof of US citizenship (such as your naturalization certificate).
- Valid identification (plus a photocopy of the front and back).
- Passport photo.
- Payment of fees.
How much does it cost to apply for a US passport?
When you apply for your passport, you must pay two separate fees.
- Application fee: Paid to the US Department of State.
- Acceptance fee: Paid to the agency that processes your application.
| Product | Application fee | Acceptance fee |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 | $35 |
| Passport Card | $30 | $35 |
| Passport Book & Card | $160 | $35 |
If you want your completed passport delivered within 1-2 days after it’s issued, you’ll need to pay an additional $21.36. And if you need your passport processed faster, you must pay an additional $60 for expedited service.
While we’re on the subject of waiting…
How long does it take to get a US passport?
The usual application time for a regular passport is currently 6 to 8 weeks. If you paid an additional $60 for your expedited passport, the wait time is 2 to 3 weeks.
Summing up…
That’s all you need to do to apply for your US passport! You’ll be able to travel visa-free to over 179 countries. The process may take some time and require some paperwork, but compared to what you went through to become a US citizen, it will feel like a breeze.
And remember to check the status of your passport application regularly to ensure everything is on track.