When dealing with the government, there is a variety of different forms. The range of factors to consider is wide when applying for a passport such as which American passport application is the right one. Below are helpful hints to narrow down the correct forms for your individual needs.
First time applicants will need to use the standard DS-11 passport application form. This form asks for the basic information regarding an individual and gives the guidelines on how to submit all the necessary pieces of identification. This form is used by both adults and minors when first applying and will lead to any other documentation necessary to complete the 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 an information update or a name change, a DS-5504 form needs to be completed. The existing passport must be sent in with this form with proper documentation supporting any changes to the agency that issued the original passport. A Court document or marriage certificate that has been certified by the Court must be submitted for individuals that have married or had a legal name change.
There is even a form for simply adding pages to an existing passport and this is a DS-4085. This form needs to be filled out completely and sent in with the old passport. The old passport must contain between 2 and 4 unused pages in order to qualify to have new ones added. If it contains more than this, it will not be honored for additional pages by the issuing agency.
A few common items go along with many of the passport applications. One is the need for the majority of these to have new photos accompany them for processing. Be sure to have the pictures taken by someone well versed in what the government requires for passport photos.
When unsure about which pass port application to complete, conduct an Internet search. The government and other passport service companies have Web sites that have detailed information regarding the entire U.S. passport process from application to renewal. For added convenience, these sites contain links to all required documents.
