Apply for a U.S. Passport

Eligibility

To have a U.S. passport, you must be a U.S. citizen.

Items You Need to Apply for a U.S. Passport

• Application Form - To complete the application for a passport book, card, or both together, first do one of the following:
  • Fill out the application online. Use the Passport Application Wizard to step through the process of filling out the application. When you’ve completed the application, print it out to take to the passport acceptance facility. Passport applications cannot be submitted online.
  • Fill out the application by hand. Download the passport application form (DS-11) and instructions (PDF, Download Adobe Reader) and complete the application by hand, or go to a local passport acceptance facility to get a copy to fill out.
    • Whether you fill it out online or by hand, it is important that you do not sign the form until you are instructed to do so in front of a passport designated official you will meet when applying in person.
• Personal documents - You’ll need to bring all of the following:
  • An original proof of citizenship document
  • An acceptable photo ID document
  • A photocopy of the front and back of the photo ID document
• Passport photo - Follow the photo requirements.
  • Note: Do not try to take the photo yourself. It is a very specific size that requires a very specific type of photo. You can get the photo taken at Photo Centers like Walgreens; however, through personal experience, your best bet is to have the Post Office do it - it is guaranteed correct.
• Payment - Calculate your passport fees.

How to Apply

Call the Post Office and request for a time to submit your passport paperwork and get your photo taken. Note: you must make an appointment beforehand or else they won't help you!

At your appointment, make sure that you have:

1. Your completed application printed out
2. Your personal documents
3. Your passport photo (if you got it at Walgreens or another similar location)
4. A check or money order for the passport fee.
   • Credit and/or debit cards are not accepted!

Advice: In lieu of going to the Post Office, try going to Tarboro Clerk of Courts for a much faster process.

Passports for Minors Under the Age of 18

• Children ages 16-17 applying for a passport can do it by themselves if they have their own identification documents. However, it is recommended that at least one parent appears in person with the child to show parental awareness.

Important Notes:

Expect your passport in 6-8 weeks after mailing

After you receive your passport, put it in a safe, secure location until the trip: do not carry it around in your wallet!

• Getting or Renewing a U.S. Passport
• U.S. Department of State: Passport Application