Before you dream of far-off lands, figure out if you’re a first-timer or simply updating an expired travel document. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport, your last one was issued when you were under 16, or it’s been lost/stolen, you’ll be using Form DS-11, requiring an in-person application. Renewing an adult passport issued within the last 15 years? That’s typically an easier mail-in process with Form DS-82. This initial choice dictates which forms to tackle and whether you’ll need to visit a local acceptance facility, like our Sebastopol Post Office, right from the start.

Time for a treasure hunt through your important papers! You’ll need original evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as your certified birth certificate (not a photocopy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. For identification, bring your current driver’s license from California, ensuring it’s valid and undamaged. If your ID is from out of state or recently issued, you might need a secondary form of ID. Remember, for minors, you’ll need *their* birth certificate *and* both parents’ IDs. Double-check expiration dates on everything before you head out.

Your passport photo needs to meet strict federal guidelines – no selfies allowed! It must be a recent, color photo, taken within the last six months, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a neutral facial expression. In Sebastopol, you can swing by places like CVS Pharmacy at 751 Gravenstein Hwy N or Walgreens at 790 Gravenstein Hwy N. Both offer passport photo services, typically getting you print-ready images in minutes. Ensure they provide two identical photos, as sometimes one is required.

Now for the paperwork! Download and fill out the correct form – DS-11 for new applicants or DS-82 for renewals – directly from the Department of State website. Resist the urge to sign the DS-11 form until you’re in front of a passport acceptance agent, as they need to witness your signature. For the DS-82, sign and date it as instructed. Accuracy is paramount; even small errors can cause delays. Print clearly, or better yet, complete it online and then print. This ensures legibility and reduces the chance of processing hiccups.

If you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11) or a minor’s passport, you must appear in person. The good news for Sebastopol locals is the Post Office at 170 N Main St, Sebastopol, CA 95472, is a designated passport acceptance facility. Call ahead at (707) 829-0158 to confirm their hours and if an appointment is necessary for passport services – it often is! Bring all your original documents, the completed (but unsigned, for DS-11) form, and your photos. They’ll verify your identity and witness your signature, then mail everything off.

Be prepared to pay two separate fees: one for the application itself (to the U.S. Department of State, usually by check or money order) and another “execution fee” to the acceptance facility (like the Post Office, which might accept credit/debit or cash). Check current fees on the State Department website before you go. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this on the State Department’s online passport status system to monitor your application’s progress. Expedited services are available for an extra charge if you’re in a hurry for your global getaway.