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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Based on verified reports from Hillsborough applicants (last updated: )
Your comprehensive roadmap to passport success starts here.
Determine whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal. Hillsborough’s residents typically require different documentation based on previous travel history, age, and specific international travel needs. Consider consulting with local travel experts familiar with our community’s unique travel patterns.
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.
Gather all necessary identification materials. For Hillsborough residents, this often means precise documentation reflecting our community’s high documentation standards. Ensure original birth certificates, current government IDs, and proof of residency are pristine and ready for submission.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Select a photo service that understands Hillsborough’s aesthetic standards. Local photographers near Crystal Springs understand the nuanced requirements: neutral backgrounds, precise sizing, and professional presentation that matches our community’s sophisticated image.
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.
Navigate form DS-11 or DS-82 with precision. Hillsborough residents appreciate attention to detail, so carefully complete each section. Consider using black ink and printing clearly to ensure smooth processing at local submission centers.
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.
Choose between mail-in and in-person submission based on your specific passport needs. Hillsborough’s proximity to San Mateo County facilities offers multiple convenient options. Calculate processing times carefully to align with your international travel schedule.
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.
Understand current passport fees and payment methods. Hillsborough residents typically prefer precise, secure payment options. Credit cards, checks, and money orders are generally accepted. Budget for potential expedited services if your travel timeline is compressed.
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 Hillsborough
Make sure you have everything needed for Hillsborough facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough’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 Hillsborough facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Hillsborough.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Hillsborough. 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 Hillsborough.
Honest comparison to help Hillsborough residents choose the right option
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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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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