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 Fullerton neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. This guide is tailored specifically for us here in Fullerton. You can use official resources like the Fullerton Post Office on N Harbor Blvd, or the Orange County Clerk-Recorder offices in nearby Anaheim. For a quicker, more personalized experience, consider our expedited service – we handle the details so you don’t have to. Keep in mind processing times can vary, so start early! Whether you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris or exploring ancient ruins, we’re here to help you get travel-ready!
The first step is figuring out if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. Are you getting a passport for the first time? Or has your old one expired (or about to)? Did you get your previous passport BEFORE you were 16 years old? If the answer to any of these questions is YES, you probably need a *new* passport. If not, you *may* qualify for a renewal. Check eligibility requirements on the official US State Department website to be sure before proceeding.
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.
You’ll need several key documents. This includes proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a valid photo ID (like your California driver’s license or student ID from Cal State Fullerton). Make photocopies of both the front and back of your photo ID and your citizenship evidence. Keep the originals separate and safe! Double-check that the name on all your documents matches exactly. Any discrepancies can cause delays.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
The form you need depends on whether you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11) or a renewal (DS-82). You can download these forms from the State Department website or pick them up at the Fullerton Post Office. Fill out the form completely and accurately using black ink. Don’t sign the DS-11 form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent, which will usually be at the Post Office.
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.
Passport photos have very specific requirements. They must be 2×2 inches in size, with a white background, and taken within the last six months. You can get your photo taken at many places in Fullerton, including Walgreens on Harbor or CVS on Chapman. Many professional photography studios near Cal State Fullerton also offer passport photo services. Make sure they know it’s for a passport so they meet the specific requirements. It is generally better to get a new photo than to try to use an older one.
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.
If you need a new passport (using form DS-11), you’ll need to submit your application in person at an authorized acceptance facility. The Fullerton Post Office offers passport services, but appointments are usually required, so call ahead. Another convenient location is the Orange County Clerk-Recorder in Anaheim. For renewals and expedited processing, you can use our service. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure your application is submitted correctly and efficiently.
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. Use this to monitor the status of your application on the State Department website. Processing times can vary significantly, so be patient. Current estimates are available on the State Department’s website. If you have urgent travel plans, consider paying for expedited processing. However, even with expedited service, it’s always best to apply as early as possible. For current processing times, check the U.S. Department of State website.
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 Fullerton
Make sure you have everything needed for Fullerton facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Fullerton 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 Fullerton’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Orange and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Fullerton facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Fullerton.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Fullerton. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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