Feb
6
Performing any passport-related transaction requires you to fill in a particular form. There are different types of forms for different types of transactions. While you don’t have to memorize all of them, it will be helpful to be familiar with some of the most basic and most important forms you’re going to need to deal with. Fortunately, they are number-coded so you can easily distinguish them. Now read on for everything you need to know about U.S. passport application forms.
The DS-11 is probably the most popular among these forms. The reason for this is that the Form DS-11 is the one that all first-time passport applicants use when obtaining a passport. But it’s not just the first-timers who’ll need to use the DS-11. Those who were under 16 when they were issued their first passport, or those with passports issued over 15 years ago will need to fill in the DS-11 for their passport application.
One thing you should know about working with the DS-11 is that you need to submit it in person. So if you are required to personally submit the form along with the other requirements, then you know that you’re dealing with the DS-11. Also remember not to sign the form until you are told to do so when you submit it at the passport office.
Not all passport application need to be submitted by hand. There are also passport applications you can send through the mail. If you’re going to apply for a passport using this option, then you’ll need to fill in the Form DS-82. This is the passport form used when sending your application by mail. So, if you’re after the convenience of submitting your passport by mail, then use the DS-82. Remember, though that using this may only apply to certain types of passport applications, so better check out with your local passport office first if this is the right option for you.
In case you lose your passport, the US Department of State requires you to report its loss immediately. To do this, you’ll need to fill in the Form DS-64, otherwise known as the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport. This form will then contain your statement regarding the loss or theft of your passport and will help in shedding light about the issue.
You can mail the DS-64 to the passport office in order to report your lost passport. Alternatively, you could also submit this form in person along with your application for a new passport. That said, you’ll need to submit in person a DS-11 form along with the DS-64 to the passport office.
The option in the previous paragraph is advisable if you want to accomplish two things at one time. You’ll be able to report your loss as well as apply for a new passport. Besides, you will need to have your lost passport replaced anyway, so it’s better to just do them both at the same time.
There are other U.S. passport application forms that you might encounter, depending on what you need to accomplish. However, the ones that we mentioned above are those that you will be dealing with more often than not. These are the forms you’ll need to apply, mail, or report the loss of your passport.
