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 escape from Delray’s beautiful beaches? A passport is your ticket to international adventure! Navigating the application process can seem daunting, but with these clear steps tailored for your local area, you’ll be ready to explore new horizons in no time. Let’s get that travel document sorted.
Before anything else, figure out whether you need a brand-new passport or if you’re simply renewing an old one. This crucial first step dictates which form you’ll complete and what documents you’ll need. If you’ve never had a passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or it’s been lost/stolen, you’ll be completing Form DS-11. For those with an undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years, after age 16, and still in your possession, the renewal process (Form DS-82) is often simpler. Knowing this distinction upfront saves you headaches down the line. Check your existing passport’s expiry date and issue date carefully; sometimes a renewal is possible even if you think it’s too old.
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 it’s time to assemble your essential paperwork. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, which is typically your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. For identification, bring your valid driver’s license or state-issued ID. Remember, these must be originals, not photocopies, for verification purposes. If your name has changed, don’t forget certified marriage certificates or court orders. Having everything neatly organized beforehand makes the submission appointment much smoother. Make a checklist and ensure every item is accounted for; a missing document means a wasted trip! Double-check expiration dates on all your IDs.
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 completing the form. You can fill it out online at travel.state.gov, print it, and bring it with you. For the DS-11, **do not sign it** until instructed by the acceptance agent – this is a common mistake! Accuracy is key; errors can cause delays. If you’re filling out a paper copy, use black ink and write legibly. Many Delray Beach residents find it helpful to preview the questions online even if they plan to fill out a paper form, just to be prepared. If you’re renewing, your old passport details will be needed.
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.
A compliant passport photo is non-negotiable! The requirements are strict: 2×2 inches, white background, no glasses, neutral expression, and taken within the last six months. Don’t try to take one yourself unless you’re confident you meet every specification. Luckily, several places around Delray Beach offer quick and professional passport photo services. Think local CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Store locations – they’re well-versed in the requirements and can usually get you in and out in minutes. Taking the time to do this right prevents unnecessary stress and rejections later on, ensuring your photo meets the criteria.
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 everything comes together. For new passports (DS-11), you must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility. For Delray Beach residents, convenient options include several USPS branches. The Delray Beach Post Office at 333 W Atlantic Ave or the one near Military Trail at 5878-A W Atlantic Ave are good starting points, but always call ahead to confirm hours and if an appointment is necessary. Boca Raton and West Palm Beach also have facilities, including the Clerk of Courts. Bring your complete application, original documents, photos, and payment methods. The agent will verify your identity and witness your signature.
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, it’s time to pay the necessary fees. There’s an application fee payable to the U.S. Department of State and an execution fee (currently $35) payable separately to the acceptance facility. Check the Department of State website for current fee structures and accepted payment methods, as these can change. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. You can then monitor the status of your application online. Processing times vary (routine can be several weeks, expedited is quicker but costs more), so plan accordingly, especially if you have an upcoming trip from Palm Beach International! Keep an eye on your mailbox for its safe delivery.
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 delray beach
Make sure you have everything needed for delray beach facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ delray beach 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 delray beach’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Palm Beach County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no delray beach facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from delray beach.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in delray beach. 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
Honest comparison to help delray beach residents choose the right option
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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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