Fill Out Form DS-11 in 2026
Whether you're a first-time traveler, replacing a lost passport, or getting one for a child under 16, complete every field, sign where allowed, and download your finished copy.
PDF ready. No upload needed.
Based on 36,664 reviews
How to fill out a DS-11 Form
Follow the steps below and you'll finish with no guesswork.
Open the form
Access the pre-loaded form and start entering your name and date of birth.
Fill in your details
Complete every required field, including your name, sex, and mailing address.
Download as PDF
Save your completed application as a PDF file, ready for your appointment.
What is a DS-11 Form?
The DS-11 Form is the U.S. Department of State's application for a passport, filed in person rather than by mail. You need it if you've never held a U.S. passport, your last one expired more than 15 years ago, or you're replacing a lost or stolen one, plus it covers minors. The DS-11 passport application asks for proof of citizenship, identification, and a photo, and you sign it under oath before an acceptance agent, who confirms your identity before the government issues your passport.
Key Takeaways
- Form DS-11 applies to first-time passport applicants
- Must be signed before a passport acceptance agent
- Requires proof of citizenship, ID, and a photo
What is a DS-11 Form used for?
You use this form when you can't renew a passport by mail and need to apply in person instead. Common cases include:
- First-time applicants: you've never held a U.S. passport before
- Minors under 16: all applicants in this age group must apply in person
- Lost or stolen passports: you need a replacement for one that's missing
- Old passports: your last passport expired more than 15 years ago
- Not eligible for renewal by mail: your passport was issued before age 16, so Form DS-82 doesn't apply
What information is required on a DS-11 Form?
Name
Enter your full legal last, first, and middle name exactly as you want it printed.
Date of Birth
Write your birth date using the month, day, and year format.
Sex
Select the sex marker that matches your biological sex at birth.
Place of Birth
List the city and state, or city and country, where you were born.
Social Security Number
Provide your Social Security number if one has been issued to you.
Mailing Address
Give your street address, apartment or box number, and an in-care-of name if needed.
Email Address
Enter an email address to receive updates about your passport status.
Signature
Sign the form only when the agent administering the oath tells you to sign.
When is a DS-11 Form due?
A DS-11 Form has no fixed due date. It's due whenever you need a first-time passport, apply for your child under 16, or can't renew because your passport is lost, stolen, damaged, issued before age 16, or expired over five years. Timing depends on your travel plans, not a calendar date, so submit it several months before you plan to travel.
Get your DS-11 Form ready
Open the DS-11 Form here, fill in your details, and download the completed application before you head to the counter.
When is a DS-11 not required?
You can skip DS-11 when Form DS-82 applies instead, letting eligible renewers mail their application. That path works if you were 16 or older when your most recent passport was issued, it came out less than 15 years ago, and your name still matches or you include proof of the change. Miss any point, and DS-11 is required.
What does a DS-11 form look like
Related documents
Other forms people fill out alongside this one.
Frequently asked questions
