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Getting your passport in Captain Cook, Hawaiʻi means you’re likely dreaming of adventures beyond our beautiful island shores! While the process isn’t quite as breezy as a Kona coffee farm tour, it’s definitely manageable. This guide will help you navigate the steps, ensuring you’re ready to explore the world with your new travel document in hand.
Before gathering any documents, figure out your status. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport? That means you’ll use Form DS-11, known as the “Application for a U.S. Passport.” This also applies if your previous passport was issued before you turned 16, was lost or stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago. If you’re simply updating an adult passport issued within the last 15 years, and it’s still in good condition, then you’ll opt for the DS-82 renewal form. Knowing this distinction right away will streamline the entire journey for you.
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 become a document detective! For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll need an original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or your Certificate of Naturalization. Photocopies won’t cut it for this part, so scour those safe deposit boxes or old files. You’ll also need valid proof of identity, typically your Hawaiʻi driver’s license or state ID. If you’re presenting a state ID, remember you’ll need to bring an additional valid form of ID. Don’t forget, for the DS-11, you’ll need to submit *copies* of both sides of your ID along with the originals.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now it’s time to tackle the paperwork! Head to the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) and find either the DS-11 (for first-timers, minors, or those meeting specific criteria) or the DS-82 (for renewals). It’s always best to complete these forms online and then print them out, single-sided, ensuring all your information is crystal clear. **Crucial Tip for DS-11 applicants:** Do *not* sign your application form yet! This signature must be witnessed by the passport acceptance agent when you submit your documents. Renewers (DS-82) can sign their form beforehand.
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 needs to meet specific requirements, so this isn’t the time for a casual selfie. It must be 2×2 inches, in color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed, and maintain a neutral expression or a natural smile. While Captain Cook itself might not have a dedicated photo studio for passports, you can usually find these services at local pharmacies or shipping centers in nearby Kailua-Kona. Stores like CVS or Walgreens in Kona often provide this service, ensuring your photo complies with all federal regulations.
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.
The price tag varies depending on what you need. A standard passport book costs $130. If you also want a passport card (great for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean), add another $30. First-time applicants (DS-11) will also pay an additional $35 execution fee to the acceptance facility. For faster processing, expedition fees are available. The U.S. Department of State requires payment by check or money order for the passport and card fees. The separate execution fee can often be paid directly to the facility via credit card or cash, but always confirm their specific payment methods beforehand.
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 documents, forms, photo, and payments in hand, your final step is to submit everything to an official passport acceptance facility. For residents of Captain Cook, your closest options will likely be U.S. Post Offices in Kailua-Kona or perhaps Kealakekua. It’s highly recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment, as walk-ins might not be accommodated, especially in smaller offices. Remember, if you’re a DS-11 applicant, do not sign your form until the acceptance agent instructs you to do so during your appointment. They will verify your identity and witness your signature, sealing the deal on your passport application!
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 CAPTAIN COOK
Make sure you have everything needed for CAPTAIN COOK facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ CAPTAIN COOK 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 CAPTAIN COOK’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 CAPTAIN COOK facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from CAPTAIN COOK.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in CAPTAIN COOK. 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
Honest comparison to help CAPTAIN COOK residents choose the right option
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