Download an application to be on the show on the website, fox.com, and complete it accurately. You have to meet the eligibility requirements, such as being at least 18 and not being a candidate for public office.
Make a five minute videotape of yourself and your two friends, telling why you want to be on the show. Include your name and hometown and tell what you would do with the money, if you were to win--and tell what makes you unique. Be prepared to sing on the tape, just to show your knowledge and love for music.
Have all the materials you need to mail to complete your application. The materials include the completed application, a Name and Likeness Release and Transfer of Rights, the photos of yourself and your friends and the videotape.
Mail the materials to the address listed on the Fox website. If you live near an area at which the show will have an open audition in the near future, you also have the option of taking the materials there in person on one of those dates. Occasionally the show does have the open auditions, and the last one in 2007 will be on December 8, but check the website later for future open auditions.