How to Apply
Based on the information provided, you need to complete a DS-11 form. Please see the Local Information section to determine if you need to submit an online form or complete the downloadable PDF form.
Step 1: Complete and print the DS-11 form. Do not sign the form.
Step 2: Provide evidence of U.S. citizenship.
You must submit of the following original documents (or a certified version of the original) for your citizenship evidence. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies.
- Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport (expired passports are accepted). Full validity means the passport is/was valid for 10 years for adults or 5 years for children under 16.
- A U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements:
- Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
- Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth
- Lists your parent(s)’ full names
- Has the date filed with the registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth)
- Has the registrar’s signature
- Has the seal of the issuing authority
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
If you were born outside the United States to at least one U.S. citizen parent, and you have not previously established a claim to U.S. citizenship, please visit the Citizenship Evidence page.
More information is available on the Citizenship Evidence page.
Step 3: Provide evidence of identity.
You must present one of the following identification documents (IDs) to the acceptance agent. The ID must readily identify you.
- Valid U.S. driver’s license. Digital IDs cannot be accepted.
- Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport (expired passports are accepted). Full validity means the document is/was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- U.S. Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
- U.S. military ID or military dependent ID
- Valid (unexpired) foreign passport
Submit a photocopy of the front and back of each ID you present that is:
- On white paper;
- Single-sided; and
- Does not decrease the image size.
Learn more about photo identification requirements.
Step 4: Attach one photo to your application.
Photo requirements for a U.S. passport may differ from passport photo requirements of other countries. To avoid processing delays, be sure your photo meets all the photo requirements
Step 5: Visit the local information section to make an appointment and learn how to pay the application fees.
