As with anything governmental, there are forms and usually a few different varieties. When it comes to passports, there are a few different varieties and choosing the right American passport application may depend on a wide range of factors. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down which form will be correct for your needs.

First time applicants will need to use the standard DS-11 passport application form. This form asks for the basic information regarding an individual and gives the guidelines on how to submit all the necessary pieces of identification. This form is used by both adults and minors when first applying and will lead to any other documentation necessary to complete the process.

In order for an existing passport to be renewed, a DS-82 form must be completed. Similar information will be asked for on a form that already exists on the original passport as a way of confirming that the passport holder has not changed information since its initial date of issue. This is a standard form and the original passport must be sent in with this form to be processed.

The DS-11 application form and the DS-64 form must be completed by individuals with a lost or stolen passport. The DS-64 form is intended to capture information regarding how and when the passport was lost or stolen. If the lost passport is later found, it must be submitted in order to be recorded as cancelled. After the cancellation is reported, the passport will be returned to the passport holder.

For a name change or information update on an existing passport, form DS-5504 will be needed. This form, along with the old passport, will need to be sent in to the issuing agency with any documentation supporting the data change. For those that have been married or had their name changed legally, a certified copy of the marriage certificate or court document will be necessary.

To request that additional pages be added to an existing passport, complete a DS-4085 form. In order to qualify for addition of new pages, the old passport must contain between two and four unused pages. The passport must be submitted with the DS-4085 form. The passport book containing the additional pages will then be returned to the passport holder.

A few common items go along with many of the passport applications. One is the need for the majority of these to have new photos accompany them for processing. Be sure to have the pictures taken by someone well versed in what the government requires for passport photos.

Locating the pasport application that is right for you can be frustrating at times. There are many Internet sites that will give complete instructions are needed and how to fill them out. By following these guidelines you can be assured that you will walk into the right U S passport service.