DS-11 vs DS-82: Which Passport Form Do You Need?
Use Form DS-11 if you are applying for your first U.S. passport, replacing a lost or stolen passport, or renewing a passport issued before you turned 16. Use Form DS-82 if you are an adult renewing an undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 or older, and your name has not changed (or you can document a name change). DS-11 requires an in-person visit; DS-82 can be mailed.
Form DS-11 — first-time and in-person applications
Form DS-11 is the U.S. Passport Application for first-time applicants, minors under 16, and anyone whose most recent passport was lost, stolen, damaged, or issued before age 16.
You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (post office, library, or clerk's office). Do not sign the form until the acceptance agent instructs you to.
Form DS-82 — renewal by mail
Form DS-82 is for adults renewing a passport that is undamaged, was issued when they were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and is in their current name.
You mail DS-82 with your most recent passport, a new photo, and the renewal fee. No appointment is required for eligible renewals.
Quick comparison
DS-11: First passport, minor, lost/stolen, or issued before age 16 → apply in person.
DS-82: Adult renewal, passport under 15 years old, undamaged → renew by mail.
If your passport expired more than 15 years ago, you must use DS-11 again.
Fill either form online before your appointment or mailing
DocFills loads the official DS-11 or DS-82 PDF and fills all fields with AI. You print the completed form, gather supporting documents, and either visit an acceptance facility (DS-11) or mail your renewal package (DS-82).