Before anything else, figure out your passport status. Is this your very first U.S. passport? Did your old one get lost, stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago? If so, you’re likely a ‘newbie’ and will need to complete Form DS-11. This also applies to all minors under 16, regardless of prior passports, requiring both parents’ presence. However, if you’re renewing an unexpired or recently expired passport (issued within the last 15 years, and you were 16 or older when it was issued), you’re a ‘pro’ and can use the simpler Form DS-82. This initial clarity saves a lot of hassle down the line.

This step is all about gathering the foundational documents. For a first-time applicant (DS-11), you’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship, like your birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Don’t forget your valid government-issued photo ID, such as your Florida driver’s license. You’ll need to bring both the original ID *and* a clear photocopy of both the front and back onto a single page. Renewals (DS-82) typically only require your most recent passport. Ensure all documents are in excellent condition and readily accessible. Keep everything organized; it’ll make your submission day much smoother.

Once you know whether you’re using Form DS-11 or DS-82, head to the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to complete it. Filling out the form online is highly recommended as it helps prevent errors and ensures all fields are correctly formatted. Print the completed form single-sided. Here’s the absolute critical part: DO NOT sign the DS-11 form until you are instructed to do so by a Passport Acceptance Agent at your appointment. For DS-82 renewals, you *will* sign the form before mailing it in. Double-check every single detail before printing; accuracy is key to avoiding processing delays.

Your passport photo has specific requirements: it must be a recent (within the last six months) 2×2 inch color photo, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes, with a signed statement), and maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Avoid selfies! Many local spots in Kissimmee offer passport photo services, like CVS, Walgreens, or the UPS Store. They usually know the exact specifications. It’s worth the small fee to ensure your photo meets all the strict guidelines and won’t cause your application to be rejected.

For DS-11 applications (first-timers, minors, lost/stolen), you must appear in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. In Kissimmee, your best bet is often the U.S. Post Office. Check their website for specific locations and make an appointment well in advance – walk-ins are rare. For example, the Kissimmee Main Post Office at 2600 John Young Pkwy often serves this purpose. Bring all your original documents, the unsigned DS-11, your passport photos, and your payment. You’ll pay two separate fees: one for the passport (check or money order only) and an ‘execution fee’ to the facility (can often be paid by credit card or check). No cash accepted for the passport fee!

After successfully submitting your application, the waiting game begins! You can track the status of your passport application online at travel.state.gov using the locator number provided during your submission. Keep in mind that routine processing times can fluctuate, so always check the current estimates on the State Department’s website. If you’re on a tighter schedule for your Kissimmee departure, consider paying for expedited service and express shipping. Keep copies of all the documents you submitted (especially your proof of citizenship and ID) for your records until your new passport arrives safely in your mailbox. Happy travels!