Before anything else, figure out your passport situation. Are you a first-timer, perhaps a minor, or just need to renew an expired travel document? This crucial step dictates which application form you’ll need. New applicants and minors (under 16) will use Form DS-11, requiring an in-person appearance. If you’re simply renewing an adult passport that’s still valid or expired less than 5 years ago, and you can submit your old one, Form DS-82 is your friend – it’s often handled by mail. Understanding this upfront saves you valuable time and ensures you gather the right information from the start. Don’t worry, we’ll cover both scenarios.

Your journey starts with proving your United States citizenship. The primary document needed for this is usually your original birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state of birth, not a hospital one!) or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport. If you were born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, you’ll need your Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Naturalized citizens will need their original Certificate of Naturalization. Remember, photocopies are not enough for proof of citizenship; you must present the original document. These precious papers will be mailed with your application and returned to you, typically in a separate mailing from your new passport, so ensure they are secure.

Next up, prepare your identification and get your passport photo taken. For primary ID, a valid, unexpired Florida driver’s license from Palm Bay or a state-issued ID card is perfect. Remember to bring a photocopy of both the front and back of your ID, printed on separate pieces of paper. Your passport photo must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, with both eyes open. Many local places in Palm Bay offer passport photo services, like Walgreens or CVS, ensuring it meets the strict government requirements.

Now for the actual application forms! Head over to the Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) to complete either Form DS-11 (for first-time applicants, minors, or if you don’t meet DS-82 renewal criteria) or Form DS-82 (for eligible renewals). You can fill these out online and then print them. It’s best to use the online form filler, as it helps prevent common errors. For the DS-11, **do not sign it until you are instructed to do so by an acceptance agent** at your submission appointment. For the DS-82, you can sign it before mailing. Double-check every field for accuracy to avoid processing delays.

Understanding the fees is essential. There are two main parts: the application fee (paid to the U.S. Department of State) and the execution fee (paid to the passport acceptance facility). Passport books for adults currently cost $130, plus a $35 execution fee. Minors’ passport books are $100, also with the $35 execution fee. You’ll pay the application fee with a check or money order made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ The execution fee can often be paid by check, money order, or sometimes even credit card directly to the facility. Cash is usually not accepted for the application fee, so plan accordingly. Expedited services will incur additional charges, so factor that in if you’re in a hurry.

If you’re using Form DS-11 (first-time applicants or minors), you’ll need to submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility. In Palm Bay, your best bets are often local post offices or clerk of courts offices that are designated as acceptance agents. For example, the Palm Bay Post Office at 1000 Palm Bay Rd NE or the one at 5050 Minton Rd SE are good starting points. Always call ahead to confirm their operating hours for passport services and to schedule an appointment – walk-ins are often not accepted. Remember to bring all your original documents, photocopies, photos, and payment methods to your appointment.