FAQ

Documents, photos & answers.

Everything you need before submitting an application — especially for newborns.

Newborn checklist

Documents for a baby's first US passport.

Bring originals plus one photocopy of every document. Both parents (or legal guardians) must appear in person with the child.

Required documents
  • Form DS-11
    Filled out but NOT signed — sign in front of the agent.
  • Certified birth certificate
    Original with raised seal, both parents listed. Hospital souvenir certificates are not accepted.
  • Photocopy of birth certificate
    Black-and-white, single side, on plain white 8.5″ × 11″ paper.
  • Parents' photo ID
    Both parents bring valid driver's license, US passport or military ID — original + photocopy of front and back.
  • Baby passport photo
    2″ × 2″, white background, eyes open if possible, no pacifier or hands in the frame.
  • Form DS-3053 (only if one parent is absent)
    Notarized statement of consent from the absent parent + photocopy of their ID.
  • Payment
    Government fee + execution fee. Separate checks payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Important rules
Photo requirements & checker

Backdrop, lighting, head position — see the full do/don't list and run our online check.

Both-parent consent (DS-3053)

Official US Department of State form for cases when one parent cannot attend in person.

Form DS-11 (US Department of State)

Official application for first-time and child US passports.

Photo requirements

Get the perfect passport photo on the first try.

Photo requirements are not flexible — even tiny mistakes cause rejection. Take photos at our office or follow the official checklist below.

2″ × 2″ · regulation
Do
  • Recent color photo, taken within the last 6 months
  • 2″ × 2″ in size (51 × 51 mm)
  • Head size between 1″ and 1⅜″
  • Neutral facial expression — no smile
  • Plain white or off‑white background
  • Normal everyday clothing (no uniforms)
  • Hearing aids permissible (medical proof may be required)
Don't
  • No smiling — directly face the camera
  • No hats or head coverings (except for daily religious wear)
  • No headphones, sunglasses or similar items
  • No prescription glasses — even clear ones
  • No shadows on your face
  • No filters, retouching or beautification
Photo checker

Check your passport photo before your visit.

Upload a photo — we'll instantly verify size, background and lighting against US passport requirements (2×2 in, plain white background).

Live checks
Waiting for a photo…
  • Square 2×2 ratio
  • Plain light background
  • Sufficient brightness
  • Subject visible (contrast)
  • Minimum resolution (600×600)
  • File size under 10 MB

This is a guidance tool. Final regulation review happens at our Brickell office.

Quick tips
  • Plain white or off-white background.
  • Even lighting — no shadows on face or behind head.
  • Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open.
  • No glasses, hats or headphones.
  • Recent photo (within last 6 months).
FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Quick answers to the most common questions about US passports and our service.

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