Travel and immigration
Who handles getting or renewing a US passport?
Who handles it
The federal U.S. Department of State issues passports. You apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or library, or renew by mail or online.
- Federal
- Not State
- Not Local
Facts checked November 5, 2026 · 3 sources
Why federal government
You need a passport to travel to most countries outside the U.S. Only U.S. citizens and qualifying U.S. non-citizen nationals can get one.
What to do next
- If this is your first passport, apply in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11.
- To renew, send Form DS-82 by mail, or renew online through the State Department if you meet the requirements.
- If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the State Department right away.
What varies
Some passport acceptance facilities require appointments or have limited hours.
Learn the background: What do the Cabinet and federal agencies do?
Sources
Official recordUSAGov: U.S. passports
Official recordUSAGov: Apply for a new adult passport
Official recordUSAGov: Renew an adult passport