Passport application checklist
Use this free checklist to see what you usually need before you apply for a U.S. passport, renew a passport, or ask a private expediter for help.
What this checklist covers
This printable checklist helps you organize the common items people need for a U.S. passport application or renewal. It is written in plain language so you can check each step before you spend time or money.
It covers the usual basics, such as the right form, proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, travel dates, and payment for the official government fee. If you want more detail, see our full passport documents checklist and our guide to timelines and fees.
Important: Passlane is an independent private company. We are a free matching and referral service. We are not the U.S. Department of State, not the National Passport Information Center, not USCIS, and not an embassy or consulate. We do not issue passports or visas, process government applications, or give legal or immigration advice.
If you have a legal or immigration question, talk to a licensed immigration attorney or an accredited representative. Only the government decides whether to issue a passport or visa.
How to use it
Start by picking the correct path. Many adults can renew by mail with Form DS-82 if they are eligible. First-time applicants, many children, and some adults who do not qualify for mail renewal usually apply in person with Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility.
Use the checklist to confirm you have the usual items before you submit anything:
- Your correct passport form
- Proof of U.S. citizenship if required
- A valid photo ID and a photocopy if required
- A passport photo that meets official rules
- Travel details if you need faster service
- Payment for the official government fee
A few rules often surprise people. Children under 16 generally need both parents to be involved. A passport card is usually valid for land and sea travel to certain places, but not for international air travel. Typical timing is often about 4 to 6 weeks for routine service and about 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service, plus the extra official government expedite fee. In some urgent situations, travelers leaving within about 14 days may be able to seek an urgent or life-or-death appointment, if they qualify.
You can always apply directly with the government yourself at no service charge. If you want help understanding the process and finding an independent private courier or hand-carry service, you can get matched for free through Passlane. Any private expediter's service fee is separate from and not included in the official government fee.
Download and next steps
Print the checklist and mark each item as you gather it. This can help you avoid common delays, such as using the wrong form, missing a signature, forgetting a photo, or bringing incomplete parent consent paperwork for a child.
Before you send or submit anything, double-check the current rules and the current official government fee on the official government website. Fees can change. Passlane does not set government fees, and we do not collect sensitive items like Social Security numbers, passport numbers, or scanned documents on this site.
If you decide you want private expediting support, Passlane may connect you, at no cost to you, with an independent private passport or visa expediting service. That private company may courier and hand-carry your application where allowed. This does not guarantee approval or a specific timeline. It is only one option. You still have the choice to apply directly with the government yourself.
This page gives you a simple passport checklist you can print and use. It helps you see the usual documents, forms, photo, and fees you may need. Passlane is a free private matching service, not a government office. We do not issue passports or visas. You can always apply directly with the government yourself at no service charge.