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Ready to explore the world beyond Anahola? Getting your passport might seem like a big task, but with a clear plan, it’s totally manageable. We’ll walk you through each step, offering tips tailored for our beautiful community on Kauaʻi, ensuring you’re ready for your next adventure.
Before anything else, figure out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an old one. This crucial first step determines which forms you’ll need and the process you’ll follow. If you’ve never had a passport before, or your last one was issued when you were under 16, or it’s been lost/stolen, you’ll be completing a DS-11 application. If you have an undamaged, recent passport that you can send in, and it meets specific renewal criteria, the DS-82 form is your ticket. Understanding this distinction early on will save you a lot of time and potential headaches, ensuring you start on the right path for your journey from our peaceful Anahola shores.
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 is where you hunt down the key documents proving who you are and where you come from. For a first-time application (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, like your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid photo ID, such as your Hawaiʻi State driver’s license. Remember, originals are often required for citizenship proof, and they will be mailed back to you separately. Make sure your ID is current; expired IDs won’t cut it. For renewals (DS-82), your old passport usually serves as both proof of citizenship and ID. Double-check all names and dates across your documents to ensure they match perfectly, avoiding any snags later on.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your documents in hand, it’s time to tackle the application form itself. You can find these forms online at the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) and either fill them out electronically before printing, or print them blank and complete them by hand using black ink. Be meticulous! Every blank space needs an accurate answer. Crucially, **DO NOT SIGN** the DS-11 form if you’re a first-time applicant. You’ll sign this in front of an Acceptance Agent when you submit everything. For renewals (DS-82), you can sign the form before mailing. Take your time, read all instructions, and don’t hesitate to consult the official website if any question feels unclear.
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 isn’t just a picture; it’s a specific requirement. It needs to be recent (within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons, with a signed statement), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. While Anahola doesn’t have a dedicated photo service, you can easily drive to Kapaʻa or Līhuʻe. Many pharmacies, like Longs Drugs, or big box stores like Walmart (both in Līhuʻe), offer passport photo services that meet these strict guidelines. Alternatively, several apps can help you take and print a compliant photo at home if you’re tech-savvy, just ensure the quality is professional.
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.
Now you’ve got everything ready, it’s time to prepare for the final submission. Double-check your bag for the completed application form (unsigned if DS-11!), your original proof of U.S. citizenship, your valid photo ID, your new passport photo, and the required payment. Passport fees can only be paid via check or money order made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ Acceptance facility fees are separate and usually payable by cash, check, or money order directly to the facility. Anahola residents will likely head to the Kapaʻa Post Office or the Līhuʻe Post Office. Confirm their hours and payment methods before you make the short drive.
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.
With all your ducks in a row, the final step for first-time applicants is submitting your materials in person. From Anahola, your nearest passport acceptance facilities are typically the U.S. Post Offices in Kapaʻa (4400 Kawaihau Rd) or Līhuʻe (3361 Weliweli Rd). It’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm their passport service hours or if an appointment is needed. When you arrive, an Acceptance Agent will review your application, verify your identity, witness your signature (for DS-11), collect all documents and fees, and then mail everything off. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll simply mail your application directly. Once submitted, all that’s left is to track your application online and dream of 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 ANAHOLA
Make sure you have everything needed for ANAHOLA facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ ANAHOLA 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 ANAHOLA’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 ANAHOLA facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from ANAHOLA.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in ANAHOLA. 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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