When applying for a passport, it’s important to follow all the instructions carefully to avoid any delays in processing your application. One of the requirements is that you must complete the passport application form using black ink. But do you really have to use specifically black ink? Let’s take a closer look at the passport application instructions when it comes to what color ink you should use.
Passport Application Ink Color Requirements
The official passport application instructions state that you must complete the form using “black ink.” This is specified in the Application for a U.S. Passport booklet that you receive when applying for a new passport or renewing an expired one. The language is very clear and explicit in instructing applicants to use “black ink” when filling out the DS-11 form.
Here is the exact phrasing from the Application for a U.S. Passport booklet:
“Please complete this application in black ink only. Print legibly using capital letters and black ink. Fill in circles as appropriate.”
And on the actual DS-11 passport application form, it states:
“Use black ink only”
So based on the official instructions provided by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, which produces passports, the answer is yes – you do need to fill out the passport application specifically using black ink.
Why Black Ink is Required
There are a few reasons why black ink is required when completing the passport application form:
- The scanning equipment used to digitize paperwork works best with black ink.
- Black provides the highest contrast on white paper, making it easier for passport officials to read.
- Black ink is less likely to skip or bleed through thin paper compared to other colors.
- Requiring black ink standardizes all applications and prevents illegible entries in other colors.
In short, the black ink requirement helps streamline the application processing and ensures legibility for passport approval procedures. The passport agencies and centers that receive mailed applications or accept them in person rely on the high contrast that black ink provides when scanning application documents into digital systems.
What If You Don’t Use Black Ink?
Given how clearly the passport application instructions specify using black ink, you may be wondering what happens if you fill out the DS-11 form using a non-black color like blue or red ink. Or what if you complete the application using a pencil instead?
Unfortunately, not following the direction to use black ink can delay the processing time of your passport application. In some cases, it could even lead to rejection of your application altogether.
If passport officials receive an application completed in anything other than black ink, they may:
- Return the application to you and request you fill it out again using black ink.
- Attempt to process the application but note that it violates application guidelines.
- Reject the application due to ink color, forcing you to apply again.
Just like any other errors or omissions on a passport application, not using black ink can raise a red flag that leads to additional scrutiny. In the best case scenario, it will mean extra time added to your processing period. In the worst case, your passport application could get denied.
What Type of Black Ink is Recommended?
The passport application doesn’t specify exactly what type of black ink you should use. Any standard black ballpoint pen is acceptable for filling out the DS-11 form. Gel pens are also fine as long as they contain black gel ink that provides a dark pigment.
Here are some recommended black ink pens to use for your passport application:
- Bic Round Stic Grip Ballpoint Pen
- Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
- Pilot G2 Premium Rolling Ball Gel Pen
- Pentel EnerGel Deluxe RTX Retractable Liquid Gel Pen
- Uni-ball Jetstream Premier Pens
As a rule of thumb, avoid any very thin micro tip pens or markers that produce a lighter grayish black tone. Go with a bold, highly opaque black ink that will clearly show up when scanned or photocopied by passport officials.
What If You Make a Mistake?
No one’s perfect, so there’s a good chance you may need to make corrections on your passport application form. You’ll be glad to know that the passport application does allow you to make fixes using black ink.
If you make any errors when completing the DS-11 form, simply draw a line through the mistake and write the correct information above it. Make sure your correction is legible and done in black ink.
However, you should avoid scribbling out errors or using correction fluid or tape. Passport officials need to be able to see your original entry underneath any corrections.
Special Cases for Black Ink Requirement
While the passport application instructions firmly state you must use black ink, there are some exceptions in special circumstances.
- Disabilities: If you have a disability, injury or condition that prevents you from writing in black ink, you can request an accommodation to use another color ink when applying for a passport. You’ll need to submit a written statement explaining your circumstances.
- Electronic applications: When applying for a passport online on the official government website, you don’t need to worry about ink color. Just make sure to provide accurate information when entering your details digitally.
- Children: If a legal guardian is filling out a passport application for someone under 16, it’s acceptable for the child to sign their name in whatever color ink they prefer.
Aside from these special cases, the standard guidance is to complete all passport applications using only black ink. This applies to both new passports and renewals for current valid passports.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key points to remember when it comes to ink color and filling out your passport application:
- Use only black ink when completing the DS-11 passport application form.
- Ballpoint pens and gel pens with opaque black ink are recommended.
- Not using black ink may delay processing or lead to rejection.
- You can make corrections over mistakes in black ink.
- Reasonable accommodations can be requested if unable to use black ink.
Be sure to read the latest passport application instructions to confirm the black ink requirement before applying. Following all guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth passport application process with minimal delays or complications.
Conclusion
The passport application instructions could not be more clear – you must fill out the DS-11 form using black ink only. This requirement exists to facilitate efficient scanning and processing of applications. Using any other color ink besides black risks delaying or complicating the approval of your passport. Stick to bold black ballpoint or gel pens when completing your passport paperwork to avoid any issues. With a properly completed application in black ink, you can look forward to receiving your new passport in a timely manner.
