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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Let’s walk through getting your passport, Watertown-style.
First things first – are you a brand new passport seeker or looking to renew? First-time applicants need to show up in person at our local processing center, while renewals offer slightly more flexibility. Our team at City Hall can quickly help you determine the right path, just like we help direct traffic during the annual Watertown Founders Day parade.
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.
Gather those critical documents like you’re preparing for the county fair’s most important competition. You’ll need proof of citizenship, a valid ID, and a recent photo that actually looks like you. Pro tip: the staff at Corner Café often know who can take a perfect passport photo that meets all federal requirements.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Fill out your DS form with the precision of a local farmer plotting this season’s crops. Every detail matters. Cross-reference everything, and don’t be afraid to ask our friendly city staff for a quick double-check. We take pride in getting the details right, just like we maintain our town’s impeccable reputation.
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 needs to be as authentic as Watertown itself. No wild backgrounds, no silly expressions. The local pharmacy near City Hall offers excellent photo services that meet all federal guidelines. Think professional, clean, and representing our town’s straightforward character.
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.
Bring everything to our processing center, where our staff treats your application like it’s their own family member’s. We understand travel means opportunity, and we want every Watertown resident to have their chance to explore the world, starting right here at home.
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.
Complete your payment with the same confidence you’d use bidding at our local fundraiser auction. We offer multiple payment methods and can help you understand processing times. Our team will ensure you know exactly what to expect, keeping you informed every step of the way.
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 Watertown
Make sure you have everything needed for Watertown facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Watertown 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 Watertown’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Watertown facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Watertown.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Watertown. 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
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Watertown.
Honest comparison to help Watertown residents choose the right option
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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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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