Before you gather a single document, clarify your situation. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport as an adult (or for a child)? This requires form DS-11. Or are you fortunate enough to be renewing an expired (or soon-to-expire) passport? In that case, you’ll likely use form DS-82. The critical difference? DS-11 generally requires an in-person appearance, while DS-82 renewals can often be mailed. Check your current passport’s expiration date – if it’s less than six months away, it’s time to start thinking renewal, even if your trip is still a ways off. Knowing your starting point makes all subsequent steps much clearer.

This is where you play detective in your own home! For a first-time passport (DS-11), you’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship. Think certified birth certificate (not a photocopy!), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. You’ll also need a valid photo ID, such as your Georgia driver’s license. For renewals (DS-82), your most recent passport is usually the primary document. Don’t forget any documents supporting a name change if your current name differs from your citizenship proof. Make sure everything is current, legible, and, for DS-11, presented as originals, not copies, though they will be returned to you.

Now for the official paperwork! Head over to the U.S. Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) to find the correct form – DS-11 for first-timers/minors, DS-82 for renewals. You can fill it out online and print it, or print it and fill it out by hand with black ink. Remember, accuracy is key, so double-check all dates, names, and addresses. For DS-11 applicants, a crucial tip: DO NOT SIGN THE FORM until you are explicitly instructed to do so by the acceptance agent when you submit your application. Signing prematurely will require you to restart the form. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and ensure every box is addressed.

Your passport photo isn’t just any selfie; it has specific requirements! It needs to be a recent (taken within the last six months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes and accompanied by a signed statement), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. You can get these done easily around Decatur. Many local spots like Walgreens, CVS, or The UPS Store offer passport photo services that guarantee compliance with federal guidelines. Just walk in, tell them it’s for a U.S. passport, and they’ll usually have you snapped and printed within minutes.

Time to submit! If you’re applying for your first passport (DS-11), you MUST do this in person at an acceptance facility. Decatur and surrounding areas have several U.S. Post Offices that serve as acceptance facilities, such as the Decatur Main Post Office (524 E Trinity Pl, Decatur, GA 30030) or the North Decatur Post Office (3121 N Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA 30033). It’s always smart to check the official ‘Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page’ on travel.state.gov by entering ‘Decatur, GA’ to confirm the closest, most up-to-date locations and their operating hours. Many facilities require an appointment, so call ahead or book online. Remember your unsigned DS-11!

The final step in your application journey is payment. There are typically two separate fees: the application fee (paid directly to the U.S. Department of State via check or money order) and an execution fee (paid to the acceptance facility, often payable by credit card or money order). Fee amounts vary by age and whether you want a passport book, card, or both. Check travel.state.gov for the latest fee schedule. Once submitted, you’ll be given a tracking number. Standard processing times can vary, but expect several weeks. If you’re in a hurry, you can opt for expedited processing and overnight delivery for additional costs. Now, the waiting game begins – happy travels once it arrives!