What do I Need to Apply for a Passport?

Everyone needs two things to apply for a passport: proof of identity and proof of citizenship.

Proof of identity is usually a primary ID. This ID will be presented at the acceptance facility and it must have an issue date of more than 6 months ago. If not, you will need to bring supplemental forms of ID. Also, if your name has changed, you will need to present proof of name change with original documentation or certified copies.

Proof of citizenship will be your original long form birth certificate (or a certified copy), or your original naturalization paperwork (or certified copy).

There is no way around this step when applying for a passport. Everyone must be seen by an acceptance agent when applying for a new passport. An acceptance agent is needed to verify the signatures and identity of the applicant. This is usually the post office or county clerk.

The child passport cannot be renewed. It is considered a new minor passport each time until the applicant is 16 or older, when they must then apply for a new adult passport. So all minor applicants will need to be seen by an acceptance agent.