First things first: figure out if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. If your old passport is lost, stolen, damaged, was issued when you were under 16, or expired more than 15 years ago, you’ll need a new one. If none of those apply and your current passport is still in good condition, you can likely renew it. Knowing which path to take will save you time and frustration later on. This is the most crucial step to prevent application errors!

Now, gather proof of your U.S. citizenship. This usually means your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. If you were born outside the U.S. but are a naturalized citizen, your naturalization certificate will do the trick. Make sure to have both the original document and a photocopy to submit with your application. Losing these documents during the process can cause significant delays.

Head over to the U.S. Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) and download the correct form. For new passports, it’s Form DS-11. For renewals, it’s Form DS-82 (if you’re eligible to use it, see the ‘renewal’ section below). Fill out the form completely and accurately – double-check everything! Any errors or missing information can delay your application. You can fill it out online and print it, or download and fill it out by hand using black ink.

You’ll need a passport photo that meets strict requirements. A standard headshot from the neck up, against a plain white background, is what you are aiming for. Places like Walgreens or CVS in Daly-City offer passport photo services. Just Google “passport photos Daly City” to find the closest option. Alternatively, you can take your own, but be sure to follow the State Department’s guidelines precisely to avoid rejection. Smile naturally with your mouth closed.

You have a few options for submitting your application. The Daly City Post Office often accepts passport applications, but call ahead to confirm their hours and appointment availability. The San Francisco Passport Agency is another option, but it usually requires an appointment booked well in advance. If you’re in a rush, consider using our expedited passport service to skip the long wait times and get your passport much faster. We can often process your application in a matter of days.

Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use it to monitor the status of your application online through the State Department’s website. Current processing times can vary, so check the website for the most up-to-date estimates. Keep an eye on your mailbox! Your new passport and your returned citizenship documents will arrive separately, so don’t panic if you don’t receive them at the same time. Be patient and check the status regularly.