First things first – are you a passport newbie or looking to renew? New applicants need more documentation, while renewals are typically smoother. If you’ve had a passport before that was issued in the last 15 years and you’re over 16 when it was issued, you’re in the renewal lane. Pro tip: Check your current passport’s expiration date carefully.

Birth certificates, naturalization papers, previous passports – gather them like you’re preparing for a family reunion. Original documents are non-negotiable. If you were born outside Hephzibah, make sure you have that official, state-issued birth certificate. No photocopies allowed here – the government wants the real deal.

DS-11 for first-timers, DS-82 for renewals. These aren’t just random letters and numbers – they’re your ticket to international travel. Fill them out meticulously. One wrong box checked can send you back to square one. Take your time, double-check everything, and consider using blue or black ink only.

The CVS on Highway 56 offers professional passport photo services that meet all federal requirements. No selfies, no home prints! Photos must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Pro Hephzibah tip: Wear neutral colors and keep that classic Georgia smile subtle.

Head to Hephzibah City Hall or the nearby post office. Bring ALL documents, photos, and payment. Expect to pay between $130-$165 depending on book or card. Cash, credit, and checks are typically accepted. Processing times vary – expedited services cost more but can get you that passport in weeks instead of months.

Once submitted, you can track your application online. Most Hephzibah applicants receive their passport in 6-8 weeks for routine service. Pro tip: Get it done early if you have travel plans. The government website offers real-time updates, so you’re never left wondering about your international ticket to adventure.