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 beyond Augusta? Getting a passport doesn’t have to be a confusing ordeal. This guide will walk you through each step, making the process straightforward and less daunting, especially for folks right here in the CSRA. Let’s get your travel dreams off the ground!
Before you gather anything, figure out if this is your inaugural passport journey or if you’re simply renewing an old friend. If you’re a first-time applicant, if your previous passport was lost/stolen, or if you’re applying for a minor, you’ll need Form DS-11 and must apply in person. If you’re renewing an adult passport that’s less than 15 years old and still in good condition, you’ll likely use Form DS-82 and can mail it in. Head to travel.state.gov to easily find and print the correct form for your situation, ensuring you download the most current version.
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.
This step is all about verifying who you are. You’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship – this could be your original birth certificate (not a copy!), a previous undamaged passport, or a certificate of naturalization. Alongside that, bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as your Georgia driver’s license. Don’t forget to make photocopies of both the front and back of your citizenship document and your ID; these copies are submitted with your application. If you need a certified copy of a Georgia birth certificate, you’ll typically order it from the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Vital Records office, either online or by mail, as local health departments in Augusta usually don’t issue them on demand for this purpose.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Your passport photo has very specific requirements: it must be 2×2 inches, in color, taken within the last six months, with 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. Luckily, several places around Augusta can help you out. Check your local CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store locations (like the one on Washington Road or Robert C Daniel Jr Parkway) – they’re usually equipped to take compliant photos quickly and affordably, saving you the hassle of trying to do it perfectly at home.
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.
Now it’s time to complete the actual application form you downloaded. Print neatly using black ink. Be meticulous; any errors could cause delays in processing. If you’re using Form DS-11 for a first-time application or for a minor, this is absolutely crucial: DO NOT sign the form until you are at the acceptance facility, standing in front of the authorized agent. They must witness your signature. If you’re renewing with a DS-82, you can sign it before mailing. Double-check every field for accuracy, including your personal information, contact details, and emergency contacts.
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.
If you’re applying with Form DS-11, you must do this in person at a passport acceptance facility. In Augusta, your best bet is often the Augusta Main Post Office located at 2100 Milledgeville Road, or the Grovetown Post Office at 4011 Wrightsboro Road. Always call ahead or check their websites for current hours and if appointments are required. You’ll pay two separate fees: one application fee to the ‘U.S. Department of State’ (typically by check or money order) and a separate execution fee to the facility (which might accept card, cash, or check). For DS-82 renewals, simply mail your completed form, old passport, photo, and payment to the address specified on the form.
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.
After submitting everything, the waiting game begins. Processing times can vary significantly depending on whether you chose routine or expedited service, and current demand. You can keep tabs on your application’s progress by visiting travel.state.gov/status and entering your last name and date of birth. It’s a good idea to make copies of your entire application packet, including your payment receipts and tracking numbers, before sending anything off, just for your records. Once it arrives, double-check all the information on your new passport, sign it, and you’re officially ready for your next adventure!
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 augusta
Make sure you have everything needed for augusta facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ augusta 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 augusta’s 9 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Richmond County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no augusta facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from augusta.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in augusta. 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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