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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Ready to explore beyond Saline County? Getting your U.S. passport is the crucial first step for international travel, whether it’s a family vacation or a business trip. Don’t fret about the paperwork; this guide will walk Bryant residents through each step, making the process smooth and clear so you can focus on planning your exciting adventures abroad!
Before anything else, determine your passport status. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport, or do you need to renew an expired one? If you’ve never had a passport before, or your last one was for a minor, or it’s been expired for more than 15 years, you’ll generally use Form DS-11. However, if you’re an adult and your passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago, you might be eligible for a simpler renewal process using Form DS-82. This initial decision dictates which forms and documents you’ll need to chase down, so make sure you confirm your situation first. Children under 16 always require both parents to be present (or specific consent forms) and use the DS-11 form, even if they’ve had a passport before.
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.
Gathering your supporting documents is paramount. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Photocopies won’t cut it for this part; they must be originals. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification, like your Arkansas driver’s license. Be prepared to provide both the original ID and a photocopy (front and back) of it for your application. Double-check expiration dates on all documents to ensure they are current and valid for submission. Having everything organized beforehand will save you immense hassle later on.
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 fill out the actual application form. For new passports or those requiring Form DS-11, you can find it and complete it online at the Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov). Filling it out electronically is recommended as it helps prevent common errors. Print it out but **do not sign it** until you are instructed to do so by an acceptance agent. If you’re renewing with Form DS-82, you can also fill it online or print it and fill it by hand, and you *will* sign this one before mailing. Read all instructions carefully to avoid delays. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly, down to the spelling of names and dates.
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.
A good passport photo is critical. It must be a recent (taken within the last six months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. Look directly at the camera with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, and ensure your full face is visible. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed. You can easily get a compliant passport photo taken at many local pharmacies and stores right here in Bryant, such as Walgreens or CVS. They typically know the specific requirements and can print them out for you on the spot, making this step quick and convenient for Bryant residents.
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.
Bryant itself doesn’t host a passport acceptance facility, but don’t worry, several are conveniently located nearby! For most new applications (DS-11), you must submit your materials in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Your best bet is typically a U.S. Post Office. The Benton Post Office (110 S Main St, Benton, AR 72015) is a close option, or you might consider one of the larger Post Office branches in Little Rock. Call ahead to schedule an appointment and confirm their passport service hours, as these can vary. Make sure you know where you’re going and what their specific submission process entails before heading out.
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.
For your submission appointment, bring all your documents: your unsigned DS-11 form, your proof of citizenship (original!), your photo ID (original and copy), and your passport photo. You’ll need two separate payments: one check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of State for the application fee (currently $130 for an adult passport book), and a separate payment (usually cash, check, or money order) for the $35 execution fee to the acceptance facility. An acceptance agent will review everything, witness your signature on the DS-11, and then package it up to be sent off. They’ll give you a tracking number so you can monitor your application’s progress online, helping you anticipate when your new passport will arrive in your Bryant mailbox.
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 BRYANT
Make sure you have everything needed for BRYANT facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ BRYANT 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 BRYANT’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no BRYANT facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from BRYANT.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in BRYANT. 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.
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
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