Everybody Needs a Passport

A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave most foreign countries. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue or verify United States passports.

New Application for a U.S. Passport
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license. There are also 13 regional passport agencies, and 1 Gateway City Agency, which serve customers who are traveling within 2 weeks (14 days), or who need foreign visas for travel. Appointments are required in such cases. For more information on getting a new passport, please visit How to get a passport.

Renewal of a U.S. PassportYou can get a passport renewal application form by downloading it here. If your passport has been, altered or damaged, you cannot apply by mail. You must apply in person. For more information on how to renew a passport, please visit How to renew a passport.

Submitting a Passport Application? Be sure to check out Passport Fees and current Application Processing Times.

All this information is from the US Department of State.