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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Dreaming of far-off lands or just need to cross the border? Getting your passport in Gentry, AR, is simpler than you think. This guide breaks down each piece, helping you gather documents, fill out forms, and submit everything smoothly. Soon, you’ll be ready for your next big adventure!
Your journey begins with a crucial decision: are you applying for a brand-new passport or renewing an existing one? This choice dictates which application form you’ll need and the process you’ll follow. If you’ve never had a passport, your last one was issued when you were under 16, or it was lost/stolen, you’ll complete Form DS-11. For renewals, if your previous passport is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you were 16 or older at the time, you can likely use Form DS-82 and renew by mail. Double-check your old passport’s expiration date to be sure you qualify for renewal.
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.
Before you do anything else, round up all your essential identification documents. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, which could be your original birth certificate (the long-form, certified version with a raised seal), a previous undamaged passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. You’ll also require a valid primary identification document, such as your current Arkansas driver’s license. Remember, for DS-11 applications, you’ll need both the originals and photocopies of these documents. Your current Arkansas driver’s license works as primary ID. For certified birth certificates, you’d request these from the Arkansas Department of Health’s Vital Records or the county clerk in your birth county, not directly in Gentry itself.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Head over to the official U.S. Department of State website, www.travel.state.gov, to find and print the appropriate application form – either Form DS-11 or Form DS-82. Take your time filling it out accurately with black ink. Precision is incredibly important to avoid delays. Make sure all names, dates, and addresses match your supporting documents exactly. While you can print the forms from home in Gentry, resist the urge to sign the DS-11 until you’re face-to-face with the acceptance agent; they need to witness your signature as part of the application process. Accuracy is key!
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 crucial part of your application is a proper passport photo. It needs to be a 2×2 inch color photo, taken within the last six months, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed, and you should maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t forget, no selfies! For a hassle-free photo, visit the Walmart Supercenter right here in Gentry on AR-59, located at 1200 AR-59. They’re usually equipped to take passport-compliant pictures quickly and affordably. Just let them know it’s for a US passport, ensuring it’s a 2×2 inch color photo with a white background and a neutral expression.
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.
Before heading to submission, you’ll need to understand the costs. There are separate fees for the passport book itself, and an optional passport card (valid for land and sea travel to certain areas). If you’re using Form DS-11, there’s also an execution fee, paid directly to the acceptance facility. Check the State Department’s website for the most current fee schedule, as these can change. Passport fees, paid to the ‘U.S. Department of State,’ are typically by check or money order. The separate execution fee, usually around $35 for DS-11 applications, is paid directly to the acceptance facility (like the Gentry Post Office) and might accept credit/debit or cash, but always confirm with them beforehand to avoid any surprises.
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 first-time applicants and minors (DS-11), you must submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility. The most convenient acceptance facility for Gentry residents is the U.S. Post Office at 101 E Main St, Gentry, AR 72734. Call ahead (479-736-2181) to schedule your appointment, especially for DS-11 applications where the agent must witness your signature. Bring all original documents, copies, photos, and your payment. After submission, you’ll receive a receipt. Keep this safe, as you can use it to track the status of your application online via the State Department’s website. Patience is a virtue while you await your new travel companion!
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 GENTRY
Make sure you have everything needed for GENTRY facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ GENTRY 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 GENTRY’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 GENTRY facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from GENTRY.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in GENTRY. 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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