The process for obtaining a diplomatic passport in the United States is a structured procedure designed for government employees, diplomats, and eligible contractors traveling on official business. Diplomatic passports—distinct by their black covers—grant holders diplomatic privileges and immunities under international law, but eligibility is strictly limited to Foreign Service Officers, high-ranking officials, and their immediate family members. The application requires authorization from the sponsoring agency, completion of specific forms (primarily DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals), and submission of supporting documents such as proof of citizenship, passport photos, and travel orders. Processing is handled through specialized channels like the State Department’s Special Issuance Agency or agency-specific systems such as the USDA’s IPATTS, with additional steps for contractors or military personnel.

Key findings from the sources include:

• Eligibility: Restricted to diplomats, consular officers, government officials on official duty, and their dependents ^[4][2].
• Required Forms: DS-11 (new applicants) or DS-82 (renewals), with additional forms like DS-5524 for contractors ^[3][10].
• Supporting Documents: Proof of citizenship (birth certificate/naturalization), military/agency ID, travel orders, and compliant passport photos ^[1][6].
• Submission Process: In-person appointments at designated offices (e.g., State Department’s Passport Office or military bases), with some agencies requiring digital pre-submission via systems like IPATTS ^[2][10].

Diplomatic Passport Application Process

Eligibility and Authorization Requirements

Diplomatic passports are issued exclusively to individuals traveling on official U.S. government business, with eligibility extending to Foreign Service Officers, diplomats, consular officers, and high-ranking officials—including their immediate family members. Contractors and military personnel may also qualify under specific conditions, such as holding a diplomatic title or being authorized by the host government ^[4][8]. Authorization is the critical first step: applicants must secure approval from their sponsoring agency (e.g., State Department, USDA, or Department of Defense) before proceeding. For example, USDA employees use the International Passport and Visa Request System (IPATTS) to initiate requests, while non-FAS employees coordinate through their Agency Travel Coordinator ^[2].

The eligibility criteria are rigidly enforced, with additional scrutiny for contractors. Personal Services Contractors (PSCs) must submit a DS-5524 form alongside their contract documentation to verify their status ^[3]. Military applicants face similar requirements, including providing a photocopy of their Common Access Card (CAC) and ensuring their name matches the passport application ^[10]. Notably, individuals with outstanding child support payments are automatically disqualified until the debt is resolved ^[10].

Key eligibility and authorization requirements:

• Primary Applicants: Foreign Service Officers, diplomats, consular officers, and high-ranking government officials ^[4].
• Family Members: Immediate dependents (spouses, children) of eligible officials, with each child requiring an individual passport ^[1].
• Contractors: Must provide a DS-5524 form and contract documentation proving diplomatic status authorization ^[3].
• Military Personnel: Required to submit military orders and a CAC card copy, with name consistency checks ^[10].
• Disqualifications: Arrears in child support payments block issuance until resolved ^[10].

Application Submission and Documentation

Once authorized, applicants must complete the appropriate passport application form—DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals—alongside a series of supporting documents. The DS-11 form cannot be signed until instructed by a Passport Agent during the in-person submission, a rule emphasizing the controlled nature of the process ^[6][10]. Required documentation varies slightly by applicant type but generally includes:

• Proof of Citizenship: Original birth certificate or naturalization certificate (abstracts are not accepted) ^[6][10].
• Identification: Military CAC card (for government-issued passports), driver’s license, or other government-issued ID ^[10].
• Passport Photos: Two 2x2 inch photos taken within the last six months, adhering to strict guidelines (e.g., neutral expression, no uniforms) ^[1][6].
• Travel Orders: Official documentation from the sponsoring agency detailing the purpose and duration of travel ^[1].
• Additional Forms: For contractors, a DS-5524; for minors, a birth certificate and signed agency memo ^[3].

Submission typically occurs in person at designated offices, such as the State Department’s Passport Office (Room 1252) or military passport offices like USAG Wiesbaden ^[1][6]. Some agencies, like the USDA, require digital pre-submission via systems like IPATTS before the in-person appointment ^[2]. Applicants outside the Washington, D.C. area may need to coordinate with regional offices or consular agencies, such as the U.S. Embassy in Bern or Geneva, where services are by appointment only ^[7].

Critical notes on submission:

• In-Person Requirement: Applicants must appear in person to verify identity and submit biometric data (e.g., photos) ^[10].
• Photo Standards: Photos must meet State Department specifications (e.g., white background, no shadows) and can often be taken on-site ^[1].
• Processing Time: Delays are common, particularly for visa arrangements in transit/destination countries, necessitating early submission ^[1].
• Storage and Use: Diplomatic passports are stored by the issuing agency (e.g., ITS for USDA employees) and can only be carried during official travel ^[2].