First-Time Passport in Chicago: What Documents Do You Need in 2026?

Applying for your first U.S. passport is different from renewing one. You cannot do it by mail, and a missing document or incorrect photo can mean a second trip to an acceptance facility. The good news is that the requirements are straightforward once you know what to bring.

In 2026, first-time adult applicants use Form DS-11 and must appear in person. For Chicago travelers, knowing the full checklist and the order of steps before you go can save time, especially if you have a trip coming up.

If you want someone to review your paperwork first, Sameday Passport & Visa Expedite Services can check your documents at our Chicago New Passport office before you apply.

Do You Need Form DS-11 for a First-Time Passport?

Yes. You must apply in person with Form DS-11 if you:

• Have never had a U.S. passport
• Do not qualify to renew by mail with Form DS-82
• Had a passport that was lost, stolen, or seriously damaged
• Are applying for a child under 16

Complete the form before your visit, but do not sign it. The acceptance agent will watch you sign it in person.

What Documents Do You Need for a First-Time Passport?

Bring the following:

Form DS-11 (Unsigned)
Fill it out online at the State Department’s form filler and print it. You must provide your Social Security number if you have been issued one.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original, Plus a Photocopy)
Common documents include:

• A U.S. birth certificate issued by a city, county, or state, showing your full name, date and place of birth, and the registrar’s signature and seal
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
• A Certificate of Naturalization
• A Certificate of Citizenship

Photocopies of a birth certificate are not accepted as proof. You must submit the original or a certified copy. The Department of State returns your citizenship documents after processing, usually in a separate mailing from your passport.

Valid Photo ID (Original, Plus a Photocopy)
Examples include a fully valid driver’s license, a government or military ID, or a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. Photocopy both the front and back on standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper.

One Passport Photo
The photo must be 2″ x 2″, in color, on a plain white or off-white background, and taken within the last six months. Photo problems are one of the most common reasons applications get delayed. Our Chicago office takes passport photos on site.

Name Change Documents, If Applicable
If your name changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, bring the original or certified document showing the change.

Government Fees
You will make two separate payments, which are explained below.

Travel Details, If You Have Them
A flight itinerary is helpful if you are traveling soon, but you can still apply without one.

First-Time Passport Fees in 2026

As of October 2026, the U.S. Department of State lists these government fees for first-time adult applicants (age 16 and older):

The $35 acceptance fee is paid to the acceptance facility, and the application fee is paid to the Department of State. These are two separate payments. The passport card is valid only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, and cannot be used for international air travel.

For an expedited adult passport book with optional 1-3 day return delivery, the government portion is $216.87, plus the $35 acceptance fee.

These are government fees and are separate from Sameday Passport & Visa professional service fees. See our Passport Fees & Processing Times page for a full breakdown.

How Long Does a First-Time Passport Take?

Current Department of State estimates are:

• Routine service: 4-6 weeks
• Expedited service: 2-3 weeks

These estimates do not include mailing time, and it can take up to two more weeks for your passport to arrive after it is mailed. If you are traveling within 14 calendar days, the Department of State offers urgent-travel appointments at passport agencies, which require proof of international travel.

Do not base your deadline on the processing estimate alone. Add mailing time and a buffer in case the government asks for more information.

How Does the Process Work in Chicago?

A first-time passport application is filed at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility, where an agent verifies your identity, administers the oath, witnesses your signature, and seals your application package.

If you work with Sameday Passport & Visa Expedite Services, the process generally follows two stops, in this order:

1. Visit our Chicago office first. We check your DS-11, citizenship evidence, ID and photos against the requirements, so you know what the acceptance agent will ask for.
2. Go to the acceptance facility, then return. You are sworn in, pay the government fees, and receive a sealed package. Do not open it. Bring it back to our office, and we file it at the service speed you selected.

What About a Child’s First Passport?

Children under 16 also apply in person with Form DS-11, but the rules differ. Generally, both parents or guardians must be present, or one parent must submit a signed Statement of Consent. The government fee for a child’s passport book is $100, plus the $35 acceptance fee. Applicants who are 16 or 17 follow separate rules for parental involvement.

Our Minor Passport page explains the requirements for children and teens.

First-Time Passport Help in Chicago

A first passport application has more moving parts than a renewal. Sameday Passport & Visa Expedite Services helps Chicago travelers review the DS-11, citizenship evidence, ID, photos and government fees so one visit to the acceptance facility is enough.

We are a private expediting service, not a government agency or acceptance facility, and we cannot guarantee same-day passport issuance. Our fastest listed service is 4 to 7 business days, subject to eligibility and Department of State processing.

Chicago Office
432 N Clark Street, Suite 203, Chicago, IL 60654
At the intersection of LaSalle Street and Lake Street, in the Bank of America building
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-5 PM, Sat 10 AM-2 PM, Sunday by appointment

Call (708) 360-7277 or visit our Chicago New Passport page to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for my first passport by mail?
A: No. First-time adult applicants must use Form DS-11 and appear in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Only eligible renewals can be filed by mail.

What documents do I need for a first-time passport?
A: You need an unsigned DS-11, original proof of U.S. citizenship with a photocopy, a valid photo ID with a front-and-back photocopy, one compliant passport photo, and the required government fees.

How much does a first-time passport cost in 2026?
A: For an adult passport book, the government fees are $130 plus a $35 acceptance fee, or $165 total. Expedited service adds $60, and optional 1-3 day return delivery adds $26.87.

How long does a first-time passport take?
A: The Department of State currently estimates 4-6 weeks for routine service and 2-3 weeks for expedited service, not including mailing time. Allow extra time before your trip.

Can Sameday Passport & Visa review my documents in Chicago?
A: Yes. Our Chicago office can review your DS-11 checklist, citizenship evidence, ID, photo and fees before you apply. Call (708) 360-7277 for assistance.