First-Time U.S. Passport Help
in as Fast as 3 Business Days
We help first-time applicants complete Form DS-11, organize required documents, schedule and prepare for your passport acceptance facility appointment, and avoid common mistakes — with expert review every step of the way.
Choose Your First-Time Passport Service
Every tier includes DS-11 preparation, document review before your visit, hand-courier delivery, and insured return shipping. Pick the speed that fits your travel date.
Priority Expedited
Gov. fee billed separately — Adult $212.05 · All fees shown before payment · No hidden charges
How Our First-Time Passport Service Works
We remove the complexity before, during, and after your in-person acceptance facility visit.
Complete Your Application Online
Answer a few questions online. We prepare your DS-11 and review all documents for accuracy before your in-person acceptance facility visit. Takes under 10 minutes.
Visit an Acceptance Facility
Bring your reviewed documents to any post office, library, or clerk of court for the quick in-person identity verification. We tell you exactly what to bring.
We Hand-Deliver Your Application
Our specialists hand-courier your complete DS-11 application directly to the regional passport agency — no mail delays, no lines.
Passport Delivered to Your Door
Your new passport ships back via insured overnight delivery with real-time tracking at every step.
Why Travelers Choose PassportsAndVisas.com for New Passports
First-time passport mistakes cause months of delays. Here is why 500,000+ Americans trust us to get it right.
DS-11 Preparation Included
We complete and review your Form DS-11 so it is error-free before your acceptance facility visit. You review, sign, and go — in about 15 minutes.
Document Review Before You Go
Our specialists verify your citizenship documents, photo, and ID before your in-person visit — catching errors that would cause rejection or months of delays.
Hand Courier After Your Visit
After your acceptance facility visit, we hand-courier your complete application directly to the regional passport agency — no mail delays.
Secure Tracking and Delivery
Insured overnight return shipping with real-time tracking. You know exactly where your passport is at every step of the process.
New Passport Requirements, Documents, Costs & Timing
Complete guide to your first U.S. passport — what you need, how long it takes, and what it costs.
Do I Need to Apply as a First-Time Passport Applicant?
Apply as first-time (DS-11) if:
- You are 16 or older and have never had a U.S. passport
- Your last passport was issued when you were under 16
- Your last passport was issued more than 15 years ago
- Your passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
- Your name has changed without supporting legal documentation
You can renew by mail (DS-82) if:
- Passport was issued within the last 15 years
- You were 16 or older when it was issued
- Passport is undamaged (no water damage or tears)
- Passport is in your current legal name
What Documents Do I Need for a First-Time Passport?
Form DS-11 & Citizenship Proof
Form DS-11 must be completed but not signed until you are in front of the acceptance agent. We prepare it for you. You must also provide an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad. Photocopies are not accepted.
Photo ID & Passport Photo Requirements
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or military ID)
- 2x2 inch color photo taken within the last 6 months
- White or off-white background
- Full face, both eyes open, neutral expression
- No glasses (required since November 2016)
How Long Does It Take & How Much Does It Cost?
Processing Times Compared
- DIY Government Mail: 13–15 weeks
- Gov. Expedited (+$60): 7–9 weeks
- Our Standard: 15 business days
- Our Priority: 9 business days
- Our Rush: 7 business days
- Our Emergency: 3–4 business days
Full Cost Breakdown
Government fees (adult): $212.05 passport book + $35 execution fee = $247.05 total paid to the U.S. Dept. of State.
- Standard (15 days): $197 + $212.05
- Priority (9 days): $247 + $212.05
- Rush (7 days): $297 + $212.05
- Emergency (3–4 days): $347 + $212.05
DIY First-Time Passport vs. Expedited Service
First-time applications have more moving parts than renewals. A single error means starting over and repaying all fees.
| Feature | PassportsAndVisas.com | DIY (Free) | Government Expedited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 3–15 Business Days | 13–15 Weeks | 7–9 Weeks |
| DS-11 Form Prepared | ✓ We Do It | You Prepare | You Prepare |
| Document Review Before Visit | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Error Review Before Submit | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hand-Courier to Agency | ✓ | Mail Only | Walk-In Only |
| Real-Time Tracking | ✓ | ✗ | Limited |
| Insured Return Shipping | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 24/7 Expert Support | ✓ | ✗ | Limited |
Frequently Asked Questions About New Passports
Everything you need to know about getting your first U.S. passport.
Do I need to apply in person for my first passport?+
Who needs to apply as a first-time passport applicant?+
Can I get a passport card instead of a book?+
How long does it take to get a first-time passport?+
When should I apply if I have upcoming travel?+
What is the fastest way to get a first-time passport?+
What documents do I need for a first-time passport?+
What is Form DS-11 and where do I get it?+
What if my name does not match my birth certificate?+
How much does a first-time passport cost in 2026?+
What is included in your first-time passport service fee?+
Get Your First Passport — Without the Stress
DS-11 prepared, documents reviewed, hand-couriered to the agency. DoS authorized since 1992. Start in minutes.