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Planning an adventure beyond the Garden Isle? Getting your passport ready from Kalaheo is simpler than you think. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your journey starts smoothly and stress-free. Let’s get you ready for international travel!
This crucial initial step helps streamline your entire process. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport, or is it time to renew an expired one? Perhaps you’re getting one for a keiki (child) under 16, which always requires specific in-person procedures. If you’re renewing an adult passport (issued less than 15 years ago, in good condition, and you were 16+ when issued), you might be able to mail it in. Otherwise, a new application (DS-11) is likely your path. Check the State Department’s website for specifics, as requirements can shift. Knowing your category upfront prevents delays down the line.
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.
Before you fill out any forms, you’ll need original evidence of U.S. citizenship, like your birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Don’t forget valid identification, such as your current Hawaii driver’s license. If you’re using a birth certificate, ensure it’s an *original* with a raised seal, not a photocopy. For minors, you’ll also need proof of parental relationship and both parents’ IDs. It’s wise to make photocopies of everything – front and back for IDs – which you’ll submit along with your originals. Having everything organized will make the submission process much smoother.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Depending on whether you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11) or renewing by mail (DS-82), head to the official State Department website (travel.state.gov) to complete the appropriate form. You can fill it out online and then print it, or print a blank one and complete it by hand with black ink. For a DS-11, *do not sign it* until you are in front of an acceptance agent. Accuracy is key here; double-check all dates, names, and places to avoid processing delays. Having a printed copy of the instructions nearby can be helpful as you work through each section.
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 strict federal guidelines: 2×2 inches, color, plain white background, recent (within 6 months), and no glasses or hats (unless for medical/religious reasons). Don’t try to take selfies; unprofessional photos are a common reason for application rejection. On island, you can typically find these services at drugstores like Longs Drugs in Lihue or some UPS Store locations. Ensure the photographer is familiar with U.S. passport photo requirements. They’ll hand you two identical photos, usually on glossy paper, ready for your application.
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.
Passport fees vary depending on whether you want a passport book, a passport card (for land/sea travel to contiguous countries), or both, and if you choose expedited service. Visit travel.state.gov for the most current fee schedule. For new applications (DS-11) submitted at an acceptance facility, you’ll generally need to make two separate payments: one to the “U.S. Department of State” for the passport fee itself, and a separate execution fee to the acceptance facility (e.g., the Post Office). A personal check or money order is usually preferred for the State Department payment.
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.
For new passport applications (DS-11) or child renewals, you *must* appear in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. The closest one to Kalaheo is likely the **Lihue Main Post Office** (4448 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766). Call ahead to confirm their passport service hours and if appointments are necessary, especially in busy seasons. Bring all your original documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photos, and your payment (checks/money orders are best). The acceptance agent will review everything, witness your signature, and mail your 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 KALAHEO
Make sure you have everything needed for KALAHEO facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ KALAHEO 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 KALAHEO’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 KALAHEO facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from KALAHEO.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in KALAHEO. 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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