Passport services if you're disabled
There are free services and facilities to help you with your passport application if you鈥檙e disabled.
If you cannot sign your passport
The wording 鈥淭he holder is not required to sign鈥� will be shown in the passport where the signature would normally be.
If you apply online
You鈥檒l be asked if you can sign your passport during your application. Explain why you cannot sign and send supporting evidence.
If you apply using a paper form
You can get someone to sign the form on your behalf (such as a relative, social services officer or doctor) if your disability means you cannot sign the form yourself - for example you cannot write, or have learning or writing difficulties.
They should sign the declaration and give an explanation of why you cannot sign in both:
- section 8 of the form
- a covering letter that they鈥檝e signed and dated
If you cannot meet the passport photo rules
If you have a disability that means you cannot meet the passport photo rules, give details in your application and send evidence.
If you apply online
Your photo will be automatically checked during your online application.
If your photo does not meet the digital passport photo rules you should submit the photo and explain in the additional information box why your photo cannot meet the rules.
You should also send a letter saying what your condition is and whether it鈥檚 temporary or permanent.
The letter is most likely to be accepted if it鈥檚 from one of the following people:
- a doctor or consultant
- a carer
- a parent
You can also write the letter yourself.
After you鈥檝e submitted your online application, the person you鈥檝e chosen to confirm your identity will get an email from HM Passport Office.
Once they鈥檝e confirmed your identity, you鈥檒l get an email telling you:
- which passport office to send your letter to
- what supporting documents you need to include with your letter
If you apply using a paper form
If your photo does not meet the printed passport photo rules you should explain why in section 8 of the application form.
You should also include a letter with your application, saying what your condition is and whether it鈥檚 permanent or temporary.
The letter is most likely to be accepted if it鈥檚 from one of the following people:
- a doctor or consultant
- a carer
- a parent
You can also write the letter yourself.
If you cannot attend an identity interview for a first adult passport
If you cannot have an identity interview because of a mental or physical condition, you should:
- include a letter from your doctor or consultant that says what your condition is and whether it鈥檚 permanent or temporary
- explain in section 8 of the application form (if you apply by paper form)
Wheelchair access
Passport Customer Service Centres
All Passport Customer Service Centres have wheelchair access. Some have toilets for disabled customers - in those that do not, staff will be able to take you to an appropriate toilet in the building.
Find out what facilities Passport Customer Service Centres near you have.
If you鈥檙e deaf or hard of hearing
Passport Customer Service Centres have:
- staff trained in sign language - they can help you fill in your paper application form
- induction loops and quiet rooms with no background noise
Contact the Passport Adviceline to book an appointment at a Customer Service Centre if you鈥檇 like someone to help with your application.
If you鈥檙e blind or partially sighted
The guidance booklet to help with your passport application is available in different formats. Call the Passport Adviceline if you鈥檇 like it in:
- braille
- audio tape
- large-print format
Apply by phone
You can apply by phone if you鈥檙e blind or partially sighted. Someone will fill the form in for you using the information you provide. It will be posted to you to check, sign and return with the relevant documents, payment and photos.
Braille passport stickers
HMPO can attach a braille sticker to your new passport that says the word 鈥榩assport鈥� with your name and passport expiry date. Choose this option when you apply.
To get a sticker for your current passport, call the Passport Adviceline.