Before you gather a single document, figure out if you’re applying for your very first U.S. passport (Form DS-11) or renewing an existing one (Form DS-82). Generally, if your most recent passport was issued less than 15 years ago, you were 16 or older at the time, and it’s still in good condition, you’ll likely renew by mail. New applicants, or those whose previous passport is lost, damaged, or expired too long ago, must apply in person. This initial distinction dictates which forms you’ll need and where you’ll eventually submit your paperwork. Don’t worry, we’ll cover both paths.

Time to play detective and locate your essential identification! For new applicants, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship – think original birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous, undamaged U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. You also need a valid photo ID, typically your Georgia driver’s license. Remember, for the DS-11, you must bring the *original* documents, plus a clear, single-sided photocopy of both your proof of citizenship and your ID. Renewing? Your old passport is usually all you need, but always double-check the specific requirements on the travel.state.gov website to avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Head over to travel.state.gov to access the appropriate application form (DS-11 for new, DS-82 for renewal). You can fill it out online and then print it. This is crucial: print it single-sided, and do *not* sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. Signing prematurely will require you to start over! Accuracy is key here; double-check all names, dates, and addresses. Any errors could cause processing delays. Take your time, read all instructions, and make sure every box is complete and correct. A little extra care now saves a lot of headaches later.

A crucial, often overlooked step is securing a compliant passport photo. This isn’t just any selfie! Your photo must be recent (within the last 6 months), in color, 2×2 inches, with a white or off-white background, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. No glasses allowed unless medically necessary, and no hats or head coverings unless for religious purposes. Luckily, Athens offers several convenient spots for this: most CVS, Walgreens, and UPS Store locations can take your passport photo quickly and ensure it meets the strict U.S. Department of State guidelines. Just walk in and ask!

If you’re a new applicant (DS-11), you’ll need to submit your materials in person at an acceptance facility. In Athens, reliable options include the Clarke County Courthouse or the University of Georgia Post Office on Baxter Street. It’s imperative to call ahead or check their specific websites for their operating hours and to schedule an appointment – walk-ins for passport services are rarely an option. Gather everything: your unsigned DS-11 form, original citizenship proof (plus photocopy), original ID (plus photocopy), passport photo, and payment for the fees (often two separate payments: one to the ‘U.S. Department of State’ for the application fee, typically via check or money order, and an execution fee to the facility).

At your scheduled appointment, an authorized acceptance agent will review all your documents, administer an oath, and witness your signature on the DS-11. They will seal your documents in an envelope to be mailed. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number or receipt. Use this to monitor your passport’s status online at travel.state.gov – it can take a week or two for your application to appear in their system. Standard processing can take several weeks, so if you have imminent travel plans, consider expedited service for an additional fee. Your new passport will arrive via mail, often in a separate envelope from your original supporting documents.