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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First, identify whether you need a new passport or a renewal. First-time applicants require different documentation compared to those renewing. Adult passports are valid for 10 years, while children’s passports are valid for 5 years. If you’re 16 or older, you’ll need an adult passport. Younger applicants need child passports with parental consent.
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.
Collect proof of U.S. citizenship like a birth certificate, previous passport, or naturalization document. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID. For Caraway residents, county clerk offices can help verify documents. Bring original documents, not photocopies. Passport photos must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, with a plain white or off-white background.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Fill out Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. You can download these forms online or pick them up at local post offices. Be sure to complete the form in black ink and use your legal name exactly as it appears on your citizenship documents. Double-check all information to avoid delays.
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.
For first-time applicants, you must submit your passport application in person. Good locations include the Craighead County Courthouse or local post offices in nearby Jonesboro. Bring all original documents, completed application, passport photos, and payment. Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks for standard service.
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.
Passport fees vary based on type and processing speed. Bring a check or money order payable to ‘U.S. Department of State’. Credit cards are accepted at most official locations. Keep receipts and track your application online. Consider expedited services if you have urgent travel plans.
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 submission, you can track your passport status online using the application number. Most Caraway residents receive their passports within 6-8 weeks. Sign up for email updates to stay informed. If you need it faster, expedited services are available for an additional fee.
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 Caraway
Make sure you have everything needed for Caraway facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Caraway 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 Caraway’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 Caraway facility visit needed. But mailing takes + days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Caraway.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Caraway. 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
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Caraway.
Honest comparison to help Caraway residents choose the right option
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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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