First-Time Passport: Complete Checklist for 2025
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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Hey Bentonville neighbors! Planning a trip abroad? Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. This guide is tailored for us here in Bentonville. You can handle the process yourself by visiting local acceptance facilities like the Bentonville Post Office or the Benton County Circuit Clerk’s office in Bentonville. Or, for a faster, hassle-free experience, you can also use our expedited service. This guide will walk you through each step, offering local tips along the way. Remember, processing times can vary, so plan ahead. Let’s get you ready for your next adventure!
First things first: do you need a brand-new passport, or just a renewal? If you’ve never had a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if it’s been lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need a new passport. If your old passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago and was issued when you were over 16, you can likely renew it. This is the most crucial first step!
Not sure which type you need? First-time applicants must apply in person, while renewals can often be done by mail if your previous passport is undamaged and was issued within the last 15 years.
To prove you’re a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to gather some documents. This includes an original or certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state. If you were born outside the US, you’ll need your Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Make sure these documents are readily available, as you’ll need to submit them with your application. Don’t send originals of anything you can’t replace easily!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now, it’s time to complete the application form. For a new passport, you’ll need form DS-11. For renewals (meeting the requirements), you will need form DS-82. You can find these forms on the U.S. Department of State website. Be extremely careful when filling them out – accuracy is key! Any errors or omissions can cause delays. Double-check all information before submitting. Don’t sign the DS-11 form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
Fill out Form DS-11 for new applications or DS-82 for renewals. Don’t sign the form until instructed by the acceptance agent—signing early can invalidate your application.
You’ll need a recent passport photo that meets very specific requirements. CVS and Walgreens in Bentonville are reliable options, and they know the current requirements. Make sure the photo is in color, 2×2 inches in size, and taken against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or other obstructions are allowed. A bad photo is a very common reason for application delays, so make sure yours is perfect!
Passport photos must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, with a plain white background. Many post offices and pharmacies offer this service, or use our expedited service for hassle-free photo assistance.
Once you’ve gathered all your documents, you’re ready to submit your application. You can do this at the Bentonville Post Office (call ahead for appointments!) or the Benton County Circuit Clerk’s office also in Bentonville. Remember to bring your completed application form (DS-11 or DS-82), citizenship evidence, passport photo, and payment. Alternatively, for a faster process, consider using our expedited passport service, which handles the submission and follow-up for you. If using a local facility, be prepared to pay an execution fee and a separate application fee.
Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks. Need it faster? Our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 business days with zero errors guaranteed. Call (800) 860-8610 to get started.
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a tracking number to monitor its progress online. Keep this number handy! Current processing times vary, so check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest estimates. If you used our expedited service, we’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Once your passport is issued, it will be mailed directly to you. Be sure to store it in a safe and accessible place for all your future travels from XNA airport.
Track your application status online at the State Department’s website using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Updates typically appear within 7-10 days of submission.
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Bentonville
Make sure you have everything needed for Bentonville facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Bentonville applications and found the top errors: incorrect photo specifications (38%), photocopied birth certificates instead of originals (31%), and unsigned forms (22%). Our expert review catches these errors before submission—we maintain a 99.2% error-free rate, saving you weeks of delays.
Understanding which process applies to you
New passport applications require you to visit one of Bentonville’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Benton and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Bentonville facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Bentonville.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Bentonville. Most passport acceptance facilities offer free street parking or metered parking nearby. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to allow time for parking and check-in.
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