DS-11 vs. DS-82 Passport Form Decision Guide
DS-82 is for eligible passport renewals by mail. DS-11 is for first passports and applications that need an in-person visit. Check a few details about your passport to find your next step.
Can you renew by mail?
Getting your first U.S. passport? Go straight to the DS-11 steps. If you already have a passport, answer these six questions to check whether you can renew by mail.
Recently changed your name, need to correct an error, or have a passport issued for less than 10 years? Check the special situations below before sending your application.
Answered yes to all six?
You may be able to renew with DS-82. Review the renewal checklist and any special instructions before mailing.
Answered no or not sure?
DS-11 may be the next step. Name changes, corrections and passports issued for a shorter time need a closer look.
No passport number or personal details needed. Your answers are not sent to us. See the official renewal requirements.
DS-11 or DS-82: what changes?
| Your question | DS-11 | DS-82 |
|---|---|---|
| Who uses it? | First-time applicants, children, and most people who cannot renew | People who meet all renewal requirements |
| How do I apply? | In person at a passport acceptance facility or agency | By mail for a regular renewal |
| When do you sign? | When the agent instructs you | Before mailing |
| What should I bring or send? | Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and the required documents | Your eligible passport and any required name-change document |
| Is there an acceptance fee? | Yes, paid separately from the passport application fee | No acceptance fee for a DS-82 renewal |
Urgent passport agency appointments follow separate instructions. Check the current government fees before applying.
DS-11: apply in person
DS-11 is the form for your first U.S. passport. You also use it for a child under 16, or when your last passport was issued before you turned 16. Most lost, stolen or badly damaged passport replacements use DS-11 too.
If your passport was issued 15 years ago or earlier, check the in-person application instructions instead of mailing a DS-82 renewal.
Fill out the form, but leave the signature blank. An authorized agent must witness the signing. An online form filler prepares the paperwork; it does not submit a DS-11 application.
Use the official application checklist to prepare. Applying for the first time and need help? Explore our first-time passport assistance.
DS-82: renew by mail if you qualify
An expired passport may still qualify for renewal. Check when it was issued, how old you were then, its condition and the other requirements above. If you qualify, send your passport with the signed form, a new photo, payment and any required name-change document.
Print each application page on a separate sheet. Sign and date the form, then follow the official mailing instructions. You do not need an acceptance-facility appointment for a regular DS-82 mail renewal.
Online renewal is another option for eligible applicants, with its own requirements. Need help with a tight travel schedule? See our expedited passport renewal service.
Does one of these situations apply to you?
Your passport is damaged, lost or stolen
Water damage, missing pages or serious tears usually mean you need DS-11. Include the damaged passport and a signed note explaining what happened. For a missing valid passport, follow the lost-or-stolen passport instructions and apply for a replacement. Reporting it does not order a new passport. Once reported, it cannot be used even if you find it.
Your name changed or your passport has an error
If both your passport and legal name change are less than a year old, DS-5504 may be the right form. It also covers certain errors on a valid passport. For a DS-82 name-change renewal, you need certified proof, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Check the name-change and correction instructions for your situation.
Your passport was issued for less than 10 years
A child's five-year passport uses DS-11 when applying again. If you have an adult passport with a shorter validity period, read the note inside it and the letter that came with it. The correct form depends on why it was limited. Follow the limited-validity passport instructions.
You are traveling soon or applying from another country
Your travel date affects how you apply. Check urgent passport options before mailing if your departure is approaching. If you are outside the United States, follow your U.S. embassy or consulate's instructions. Still unsure about the form? Use the official passport form guide.
What documents do you need?
For the DS-11 appointment
- Your completed DS-11, with the signature left blank.
- Original or certified proof of U.S. citizenship, plus a photocopy.
- A physical photo ID, with copies of its front and back.
- One passport photo that meets the requirements, plus payment.
- Any extra documents for your situation, such as parental consent for a child.
For a DS-82 renewal by mail
- Your completed, signed and dated DS-82.
- Your eligible passport book, card or both, as instructed.
- One passport photo that meets the requirements, plus payment.
- Certified proof of a legal name change, if needed.
Download Form DS-11 (PDF) or Form DS-82 (PDF) for the full instructions and document list.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew an expired passport with DS-82?
Yes, if it passes every renewal requirement. Count from the issue date, not the expiration date. A passport issued before age 16 does not qualify, even if you are now an adult.
Do I need an appointment for DS-11?
You must apply in person. Check the appointment rules at the passport acceptance facility or agency you plan to visit. Fill out DS-11 beforehand, but wait to sign until the agent asks you. Children have extra requirements.
What if my passport is damaged?
Damage beyond normal wear generally requires DS-11. Submit the damaged passport with a signed explanation and the required supporting documents. Small bends are treated differently from water damage, missing pages or serious tears.
Can I use DS-82 for a passport issued when I was a child?
No, if it was issued before your 16th birthday. Your age when the passport was issued controls this requirement, not your age today.
Does paying for faster service change my form?
No. You still need to use the form that fits your situation. Once that is clear, check the processing and appointment options for your travel date.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore our passport services for help with a first-time application or passport renewal.
Let us help you check your form
Tell our team when you are traveling and whether you are applying for the first time or renewing. Get help understanding which documents and next steps fit your situation.
Check My Form SameDay Passport & Visas is a private passport assistance company. Our service fees are separate from government fees. The U.S. Department of State approves and issues passports, and you may apply directly.Official passport information
Information checked September 3, 2026. Use the latest U.S. Department of State instructions when you apply.
- Form DS-11 instructions (PDF) and Form DS-82 instructions (PDF)
- Renew by mail and Apply for an adult passport
- Change or correct a passport
- Replace a limited-validity passport
- Report a lost or stolen passport
Images are AI-generated illustrations, not photographs of actual customers, staff or government offices.
