To apply for a U.S. passport, you will need the following:

• Form DS-11 : The application form for a U.S. passport. You can fill it out online and print it, or download and complete it by hand. Do not sign the form until instructed to do so at your appointment

• Proof of U.S. citizenship : This can be an original birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship. If you submit a current or expired passport as proof, it may take several weeks to get it back

• Photo identification : A valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, government ID, military ID, or previously issued passport. You will also need to provide photocopies of both your citizenship document and photo ID

• Passport photo : One recent color passport photo that meets official requirements

• Passport fees : Payment for the application fees, which vary depending on the type of passport and applicant's age. Fees can be paid by credit card, check, or money order as specified by the acceptance facility

• In-person application : First-time applicants must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or government office. Some locations require appointments

In summary, gather your completed but unsigned Form DS-11, original proof of citizenship, acceptable photo ID and photocopies, a passport photo, and payment for fees, then apply in person at an authorized facility