Passport services if you're disabled

There are free services and facilities to help you with your passport application if you’re disabled.

If you cannot sign your passport

The wording “The holder is not required to sign” will be shown in the passport where the signature would normally be.

If you apply online

You’ll 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’ve 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’s temporary or permanent.

The letter is most likely to be accepted if it’s from one of the following people:

  • a doctor or consultant
  • a carer
  • a parent

You can also write the letter yourself.

After you’ve submitted your online application, the person you’ve chosen to confirm your identity will get an email from HM Passport Office.

Once they’ve confirmed your identity, you’ll 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’s permanent or temporary.

The letter is most likely to be accepted if it’s 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’s 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’re 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’d like someone to help with your application.

If you’re blind or partially sighted

The guidance booklet to help with your passport application is available in different formats. Call the Passport Adviceline if you’d like it in:

  • braille
  • audio tape
  • large-print format

Apply by phone

You can apply by phone if you’re 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 ‘passport’ 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.

Related content