An Application Acceptance Facility is a location designated by the U.S. Department of State where U.S. citizens can submit their passport applications. These facilities are most commonly post offices, public libraries, county courthouses, or other institutions authorized to handle the passport application process. They represent the first step in obtaining a passport, ensuring that all documentation is properly prepared. Thanks to these facilities, the passport process is consistent and standardized nationwide.
Role and responsibilities
An Application Acceptance Facility functions as a document intake point, where staff members:
- review the accuracy of the DS-11 form,
- verify the applicant’s identity based on valid documents,
- accept the required attachments (e.g., passport photo, proof of identity),
- administer the oath sworn by the applicant,
- forward the complete application to the appropriate Passport Agency for further processing.
Who must use an Application Acceptance Facility?
Visiting an Application Acceptance Facility is mandatory for:
- first-time passport applicants,
- children under the age of 16,
- applicants who are not eligible to renew their passport using the DS-82 form (for example, if the passport expired many years ago or was lost/damaged).
Important information
An Application Acceptance Facility does not issue passports – it only serves to receive and verify applications. There are thousands of such facilities across the United States, and their full list can be found in the Department of State’s official search tool: IAF Locator. Submitting an application at such a facility is a crucial step in the process of obtaining a first-time passport or a child’s passport.
Summary
The Application Acceptance Facility is an essential part of the U.S. passport application process. These facilities ensure proper verification of data and forward applications for further review, maintaining consistency and security throughout the entire procedure. They provide applicants with confidence that their application will be properly handled and delivered to the correct authorities.
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* The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The content has been prepared based on publicly available information, including the U.S. Department of State website and other thematic sources, and is intended to clarify selected issues and assist individuals interested in the process of applying for documents, including passports and visas.