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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Ready to explore the world? Getting a U.S. passport from Palm Coast, FL, is simpler than you might think. This guide walks you through each step, from figuring out your application type to submitting your paperwork at a local facility. Let’s get you ready for your next international adventure!
Before anything else, pinpoint what kind of passport applicant you are. Are you a first-timer, an adult renewing an expired passport, or seeking a passport for a minor? This initial clarification is crucial because it dictates which specific application form (DS-11 for first-timers and minors, DS-82 for renewals) you’ll need to complete and the supporting documents required. Head over to travel.state.gov, the official U.S. Department of State website, to thoroughly understand the distinct requirements for each scenario. Knowing this from the outset will save you considerable time and potential frustration 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, it’s time to assemble your essential identification papers. For first-time applicants, this means locating your original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate or your previous, undamaged passport if you’re renewing. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification, like your Florida driver’s license. Remember, for new applications (DS-11), you’ll submit these original documents, and they will be mailed back to you separately from your new passport. Double-check that your ID isn’t expired; an out-of-date license won’t work. Having everything organized prevents delays.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your type determined and documents ready, it’s time to tackle the application form. For first-time applicants or minors, you’ll need the DS-11 form. If you’re renewing, grab the DS-82. It’s highly recommended to fill out the form online using the State Department’s wizard at travel.state.gov. This helps prevent errors and ensures all required fields are addressed. Print it out single-sided. A critical point for DS-11 applicants: *DO NOT SIGN* the form until you are instructed to do so by a Passport Acceptance Agent at your appointment. Incorrectly signed forms will be rejected.
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 must meet strict guidelines: it needs to be a recent (within the last six months) 2×2 inch color photo, taken against a plain white or off-white background. Crucially, no glasses, hats, or uniforms are permitted, and you should have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t try to take this yourself unless you’re confident in meeting all specifications. In Palm Coast, you can reliably get compliant passport photos taken at places like CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store located on Palm Coast Pkwy NE. These spots are familiar with the requirements and can usually print them while you wait.
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.
For DS-11 applications (first-time adults and all minors), you must submit your application in person. Your primary local options for passport acceptance facilities in Palm Coast are the U.S. Post Offices. The Palm Coast Main Post Office, located at 290 Palm Coast Pkwy NE, is a common choice. It’s imperative that you *schedule an appointment* beforehand; walk-ins are rarely accommodated for passport services. Visit the USPS website or call your chosen Post Office directly to book a slot that works for you. Confirm their specific hours for passport services, as these can differ from standard postal hours.
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.
On your appointment day, bring everything: your completed (unsigned DS-11) form, all original supporting documents, your compliant passport photo, and your payment. You’ll need two separate payments: one for the U.S. Department of State (check or money order, no cash or credit cards directly) for the application fee, and another for the acceptance facility (cash, check, or money order) for the execution fee. The acceptance agent will review your documents, witness your signature on the DS-11, and send everything off. They’ll confirm processing times and provide you with a tracking number so you can monitor your new passport’s journey.
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 palm coast
Make sure you have everything needed for palm coast facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ palm coast 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 palm coast’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Flagler County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no palm coast facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from palm coast.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in palm coast. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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