American Passport Application Never Wait Around, Grab One Immediately
There are different versions of the passport application form for different situations. The first time applicant, renewal passport holder, or those with a lost or stolen passport will find that the forms and instructions vary with their situation. In order to have processing completed properly the first time, it is important to complete the version of the passport application form relevant to the situation. The following guidance will assist an individual with selecting the correct form for his or her needs.
The Standard DS-11 passport application forms are the correct forms for first time applicants. The Standard DS-11 form gives the guidelines and information correctly submitting necessary pieces of information and basic information regarding the individual applying. For first time applicants, whether adults and minors, this form will direct the applicant to any other documents or information needed to complete the application process.
Individuals renewing their passport should complete the DS-82 form. The applicant should list any updated contact information on this form so that the passport information may also be updated. The passport holder will need to present the existing passport with this application in order to receive a renewal. In many cases, passport renewal can be accomplished entirely via mail.
A lost or stolen passport requires filing two forms, the DS-11 and the DS-64. The DS-11, as stated earlier, is the actual application and the DS-64 is a report as to how and when the original passport was discovered to be missing. These both need to be filled out completely and sent in for the issuing agency to record the loss properly, should the old passport resurface at some point. If the old passport is found after the replacement is issued, it will need to be sent in to be cancelled properly and will be returned to the passport holder.
For a name change or information update on an existing passport, form DS-5504 will be needed. This form, along with the old passport, will need to be sent in to the issuing agency with any documentation supporting the data change. For those that have been married or had their name changed legally, a certified copy of the marriage certificate or court document will be necessary.
To request that additional pages be added to an existing passport, complete a DS-4085 form. In order to qualify for addition of new pages, the old passport must contain between two and four unused pages. The passport must be submitted with the DS-4085 form. The passport book containing the additional pages will then be returned to the passport holder.
There are a just few items that must be submitted with most passport applications. In order for most applications to be processed, they must be accompanied by new photos. It is advisable to get passport photos done by an agency that knows what kind of photos are required.
