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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Getting a U.S. passport in Vallejo doesn’t have to be a confusing maze! This guide walks you through the entire process, from figuring out your application type to knowing where to go in town. We’ll make sure you have all the necessary steps clear, so you can focus on planning your next adventure, hassle-free.
For Vallejo residents, your journey begins with knowing if you need a brand-new passport or if you’re simply renewing an old one. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll be using Form DS-11. This form requires an in-person application. However, if you’re an adult renewing a passport issued within the last 15 years, and it’s undamaged, you might qualify for the simpler mail-in process using Form DS-82. Minors under 16 have specific requirements involving both parents’ presence. Understanding this distinction early on saves you significant time and ensures you gather the correct items for your appointment.
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.
Now’s the time to gather all your crucial citizenship documents and identification. For a first-time applicant (DS-11), you absolutely need original proof of U.S. citizenship, like your certified birth certificate or previous, undamaged U.S. passport. Don’t forget a clear photocopy of this document! You’ll also need a valid government-issued ID, such as your California Driver’s License or state ID card, along with a photocopy of both the front and back. Make sure all your documents are current and in excellent condition. Having everything ready prevents frustrating delays when you visit an acceptance facility here in Vallejo.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Whether it’s the DS-11 for new applicants or the DS-82 for renewals, take your time filling out the official passport application form. You can usually complete these forms online at the Department of State website and print them, or pick up a paper copy at a local acceptance facility. For the DS-11, **do not sign it until you are instructed to do so by the acceptance agent** during your in-person appointment. Accuracy is paramount; double-check all names, dates, and addresses. Any errors could cause your application to be rejected, sending you back to square one. Fill it out clearly, preferably in black ink if using a paper form, ensuring every field is complete and legible.
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 needs to meet very specific requirements, so don’t just use a casual selfie. It must be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches in size, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No hats, no glasses (unless medically necessary, with a signed doctor’s note), and maintain a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile. Many local pharmacies in Vallejo, like the CVS on Admiral Callaghan Ln or Walgreens on Sonoma Blvd, offer passport photo services that are familiar with these guidelines. Even some shipping centers in town might provide this. It’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm their services and hours.
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.
This is where you bring everything together! For DS-11 applications, you must submit your paperwork in person at an official passport acceptance facility. In Vallejo, your primary options are usually U.S. Post Offices. The Vallejo Main Post Office (1000 Vallejo Station Blvd) and the Glen Cove Post Office (768 Glen Cove Pkwy) are common sites that often handle these. You will almost certainly need to schedule an appointment in advance – do not just show up. Call them directly or check the USPS website for appointment booking. Bring all your original documents, copies, your unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo.
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.
At your appointment, you’ll pay the necessary fees. There’s a passport application fee (payable to “U.S. Department of State” by check or money order) and a separate execution fee (often payable to the facility, like the Post Office, which might accept cards). Expedited processing and expedited shipping cost extra if you’re in a hurry. Once everything is submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. You can then monitor the status of your application online via the U.S. Department of State website. Processing times vary, so plan accordingly, especially if you have upcoming travel. Soon, your brand-new passport will arrive, ready 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 vallejo
Make sure you have everything needed for vallejo facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ vallejo 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 vallejo’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Solano County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no vallejo facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from vallejo.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in vallejo. 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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