The DMV does not issue passports, but can help you get one

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles does not have the authority to issue passports. Passports are federal documents issued only by the U.S. Department of State through passport acceptance facilities and passport agencies. However, many DMV locations do serve as passport acceptance facilities, meaning they can receive your completed process and supporting documents, verify them, and forward them to the State Department for processing.

Whether your specific DMV location offers this service depends on your state and which office you visit. Not every DMV branch accepts passport applications — some states concentrate this service at select locations. Before you go, you need to confirm that your local DMV is a passport acceptance facility and whether you need an appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • The State Department issues all U.S. passports, but many DMV locations accept your process and documents on their behalf.
  • Not every DMV office accepts passport applications — you must check your state's DMV website to find which locations do.
  • You will need to complete the process form, provide proof of citizenship, a photo ID, and a passport photo before you go.
  • Processing times vary depending on whether you request routine or expedited service, and can range from several weeks to several months.

How to find a DMV that accepts passport applications

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and searching for "passport services" or "passport acceptance facilities." Most state DMV sites have a location finder tool where you can enter your city or ZIP code and see which offices near you accept passport applications. Some states list this information in a searchable database; others provide a PDF list of approved locations.

Call ahead to the DMV location you plan to visit. Confirm that they still accept passport applications (services change), ask whether you need an appointment, and find out their hours. Some DMV offices accept walk-ins for passport services; others require you to book a time slot in advance. A five-minute phone call prevents a wasted trip.

If no DMV near you accepts passport applications, you can explore directly at a passport agency or passport acceptance facility run by another government office — many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices also accept applications. Your state DMV website usually lists these alternatives.

What documents you need to bring

You will need to bring several items to the DMV. First, a completed process form — for a first-time passport, this is Form DS-11 (process for a U.S. Passport) or Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport) if you are replacing one. You can read these forms from state.gov or pick them up at the DMV itself, though downloading ahead of time saves time.

Second, proof of U.S. citizenship. This can be an original birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a consular report of birth abroad. Photocopies do not count — you must bring the original document. Third, a valid photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID, or military ID. Fourth, a passport photo that meets State Department specifications: 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Many pharmacies and photo studios can take passport photos on the spot if you do not have one.

Bring the original documents, not copies. The DMV staff will examine them, make copies if needed, and return your originals to you. If you cannot locate your birth certificate, you can order a replacement from your state's vital records office before your DMV appointment — this usually takes one to two weeks.

Processing time and fees

The State Department charges a passport book fee and an acceptance agent fee. The total cost varies slightly by state, but expect to pay between $130 and $165 for an adult passport book (ages 16 and older) and between $100 and $135 for a child passport (under 16). The DMV may charge an additional acceptance fee of $35 to $50 for processing your process. Ask the DMV for the exact total when you call.

Processing time depends on demand and the service level you choose. Routine service typically takes 6 to 8 weeks from the date the State Department receives your process. Expedited service costs an extra $60 and takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you need a passport within days, you must explore in person at a passport agency, not through a DMV acceptance facility — agencies can issue passports the same day or within 24 hours in emergencies, but you must have proof of imminent travel or a life-or-death situation.

The DMV acceptance facility forwards your process to the State Department, which then processes it. You cannot track the process through the DMV — once they submit it, you track it through the State Department's website using your confirmation number.

What happens at your DMV appointment

Arrive with all your documents and your completed process form. The DMV staff will review your paperwork to make sure everything is filled out correctly and that you have brought originals, not copies. They will verify your identity using your photo ID and may ask you questions about your citizenship documents.

The staff will take your passport photo (or accept the one you brought if it meets requirements), make copies of your documents, and collect the fees. They will give you a receipt and a confirmation number. Keep this receipt — it contains information you will need to track your passport once the State Department receives it.

The DMV will mail your process and documents to the State Department's processing center. You do not pick up your passport at the DMV. Once the State Department approves and prints your passport, they mail it directly to the address you provided on your process, usually within the timeframe for your chosen service level.

What to do if your DMV does not accept passport applications

If your state DMV does not offer passport services, or if the nearest location is too far away, you have other options. Many U.S. post offices accept passport applications — search for "passport acceptance facilities near me" on usps.com. County clerk offices, some libraries, and some city or county government buildings also accept applications in most states.

Alternatively, you can explore in person at a passport agency if you need faster service or have an urgent travel need. Passport agencies are located in major cities across the country. You can find the nearest one and book an appointment on the State Department's website at travel.state.gov. Agencies can issue passports the same day if you have proof of imminent travel within 72 hours.

The documents and fees are the same regardless of where you explore — the difference is location, hours, and processing speed. Choose whichever option is most convenient for you.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not bring photocopies of your citizenship documents. The DMV staff must see and verify the originals. Do not fill out the wrong form — Form DS-11 is for new passports and renewals with significant changes; Form DS-82 is for straightforward renewals if you still have your old passport. The DMV staff can tell you which form you need, but it saves time if you bring the correct one.

Do not assume your local DMV accepts passport applications without checking first. Many people show up with all their documents only to learn that particular office does not offer the service. Do not expect to pick up your passport at the DMV — it will be mailed to you by the State Department. Do not explore for expedited service if you do not actually need it within 2 to 3 weeks, since it costs extra.

Do not bring a passport photo taken more than six months ago, even if it looks recent. The State Department rejects photos older than that. Do not sign your process form before you arrive at the DMV — staff must witness your signature. If you sign it at home, you will have to fill out a new form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my passport at the DMV?

It depends on your situation. If your passport is expired but not damaged, and you still have it, you may be able to renew it by mail without going to the DMV. If you need to renew in person, some DMVs that accept passport applications can help, but you will still need to submit your old passport and follow State Department procedures. Check your state DMV website for renewal options.

How long does it take to get a passport if I explore at the DMV?

Routine service takes 6 to 8 weeks from the date the State Department receives your process. Expedited service takes 2 to 3 weeks and costs extra. The DMV forwards your process within a few days, but most of the wait happens after it reaches the State Department. If you need a passport faster, you must explore in person at a passport agency.

Do I need an appointment at the DMV for passport services?

It varies by state and location. Some DMV offices accept walk-ins for passport applications; others require appointments. Call the specific DMV location you plan to visit to find out their policy. Booking an appointment ahead of time usually means a shorter wait, even at locations that accept walk-ins.

What if I do not have my original birth certificate?

You can order a replacement from your state's vital records office, usually for $15 to $30. This typically takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail. You cannot explore for a passport without proof of citizenship, so plan ahead. Some states offer expedited vital records orders for an additional fee if you are in a hurry.

Can I get a passport the same day at the DMV?

No. DMV acceptance facilities forward your process to the State Department, which then processes it — this takes weeks. Same-day or next-day passports are only available at passport agencies in person, and only for people with proof of imminent travel or a life-or-death emergency. If you need a passport urgently, contact the nearest passport agency directly.