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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Planning an exciting adventure abroad from Clermont? Fantastic! Getting your U.S. passport might seem like a mountain of paperwork, but it’s simpler than you think. This guide will walk you through each step, making the process smooth and straightforward, so you can focus on packing your bags instead of stressing over forms.
Before anything else, figure out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an old one. This distinction is crucial because it dictates which application form you’ll use and what documents you’ll need to present. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport, or your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or it’s been lost/stolen, you’re in for a fresh application. If you have an undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years, and you were 16 or older when it was issued, you’re likely eligible for a renewal. Getting this sorted at the beginning saves a lot of hassle down the line.
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 for the scavenger hunt! You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, which could be your original birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous undamaged passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. You also need a valid form of identification, like your Florida driver’s license. Remember, you’ll need both the originals AND photocopies of these documents – front and back for IDs. For Clermont residents, keeping these essential papers organized in a folder before you leave the house will make the next steps much smoother, ensuring you don’t forget anything vital for your appointment.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Alright, it’s form-filling time! For a first-time passport or if you don’t meet renewal criteria, you’ll be filling out Form DS-11. If you’re eligible for a renewal, it’s Form DS-82. You can download and print these forms from the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) or pick one up at an acceptance facility. Fill it out completely and accurately, but do NOT sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of an acceptance agent. Accuracy is key here, so double-check every entry before you print and head out.
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.
Next up: your passport photo! This isn’t just any selfie. It needs to be a specific size (2×2 inches), in color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats, and a neutral facial expression is best. Don’t try to take this yourself unless you’re confident you meet all the strict requirements. In Clermont, you can easily get compliant passport photos taken at local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens. They’re experienced in meeting the exact specifications, saving you potential rejections later on.
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.
With your form, documents, and photo ready, it’s time for the final submission! For Clermont residents, the most common acceptance facility is the Clermont Post Office located at 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. You’ll need to present all your documents, your unsigned DS-11 (if applicable), and your passport photo to an acceptance agent. They will verify your identity, witness your signature (for DS-11), and seal your application. It’s wise to call ahead or check their website for their specific passport processing hours and if an appointment is recommended.
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.
Finally, the financial part and the waiting period. You’ll have two separate fees: one for the U.S. Department of State, which must be paid by check or money order, and another for the acceptance facility, which can often be paid by credit card or cash. Once everything is submitted and paid, your application begins its journey. Standard processing times vary, so check the State Department’s website for current estimates. You can track your application online, giving you peace of mind while you dream about your upcoming global adventures. Bon voyage!
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 clermont
Make sure you have everything needed for clermont facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ clermont 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 clermont’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Lake County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no clermont facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from clermont.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in clermont. 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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