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 Monrovia neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but we’re here to make it easy. This guide breaks down the process step-by-step, specifically for us Monrovians. You can apply the traditional way at a local acceptance facility, or if you’re in a rush, we offer expedited passport services to get you travel-ready fast. Just remember that standard processing times can vary, so plan ahead. We’ll help you navigate the forms, photos, and everything in between so you can focus on planning your trip. Let’s get started!
First things first, figure out if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. A new passport is required if it’s your first time, your previous passport was lost/stolen, it was issued when you were under 16, or it expired more than 15 years ago. If you’re unsure, double-check the requirements. Knowing this upfront saves you time and avoids unnecessary steps. If you’ve been putting it off, now’s the time!
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.
To apply, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or previous passport) and a valid photo ID (driver’s license, for example). Make copies of everything! You’ll submit the originals, but keep the copies for your records. If your name on these documents differs, you’ll need to provide legal documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.). Get this all sorted *before* you fill out the application to make the process smoother.
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 find these forms on the U.S. Department of State website. Fill it out completely and accurately. Double-check everything! Use black ink and print clearly. If you have any questions while filling it out, don’t hesitate to ask us or research official guidelines. Accuracy is key to avoiding 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.
Your passport photo must meet very specific requirements – size, background color (white), facial expression, etc. Luckily, several places in Monrovia offer passport photo services. Consider stopping by your local CVS or Walgreens pharmacy or even try a professional photographer in town. Make sure they guarantee the photo will meet passport standards, or you’ll have to do it all over again. Don’t try to take it yourself unless you’re absolutely certain you can meet all the requirements. Avoid shadows and wear appropriate attire.
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’re applying for a *new* passport, you’ll need to submit your application in person at an authorized acceptance facility. The closest option for Monrovia residents is often a post office that offers passport services, or a County Clerk’s office. Call ahead to confirm their hours and whether you need an appointment. *For renewals*, you might be eligible to mail it in! If you’re short on time, consider our expedited passport service. We handle the submission process and can get your passport much faster than standard processing.
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.
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this to monitor the status of your application online through the U.S. Department of State website. Processing times can vary, so be patient! Keep checking the status regularly. Once it’s approved, your passport will be mailed directly to you. When it arrives, double-check all the information is correct. Now you’re all set for your next adventure!
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 Monrovia
Make sure you have everything needed for Monrovia facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Monrovia 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 Monrovia’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Los Angeles and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Monrovia facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Monrovia.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Monrovia. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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