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 pass port 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.

Individuals renewing their passport should complete the DS-82 form. The applicant should list any updated contact information on this form so that the passport information may also be updated. The passport holder will need to present the existing passport with this application in order to receive a renewal. In many cases, passport renewal can be accomplished entirely via mail.

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 an information update or a name change, a DS-5504 form needs to be completed. The existing passport must be sent in with this form with proper documentation supporting any changes to the agency that issued the original passport. A Court document or marriage certificate that has been certified by the Court must be submitted for individuals that have married or had a legal name change.

There is even a form for simply adding pages to an existing passport and this is a DS-4085. This form needs to be filled out completely and sent in with the old passport. The old passport must contain between 2 and 4 unused pages in order to qualify to have new ones added. If it contains more than this, it will not be honored for additional pages by the issuing agency.

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.

Finding the right USA Passport application can be a bit confusing for some. There are, however, websites available online with exacting guidelines on which pasport applications to select for your specific needs. These are easily found by conducting a brief search on the Internet.