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Aloha from beautiful Kapaau! Preparing for your next adventure abroad means sorting out that all-important passport. While our tranquil corner of the Big Island offers pure relaxation, navigating the passport process can feel a bit daunting. Don’t fret! This friendly guide will walk you through each step, making sure you’re ready for takeoff from our serene North Kohala community.
First things first, what kind of passport journey are you embarking on? Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport, perhaps for a little one, or replacing a lost one? If so, you’ll generally need to complete the DS-11 form. If you’re a seasoned traveler simply updating an expired passport that’s still in good condition and was issued within the last 15 years (and you were 16 or older when it was issued), the DS-82 renewal form is likely your path. Double-check the State Department’s website for specific eligibility requirements – a quick visit can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Understanding this initial distinction sets the stage for gathering the correct paperwork and following the right submission process.
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.
Once you know your application type, it’s time for the document treasure hunt. For first-time applicants, this typically means locating your original birth certificate (issued by the state, not the hospital), a previous passport (if applicable), or your naturalization certificate. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID, such as your Hawaii driver’s license. Remember, for the DS-11, you generally must present *original* documents, not just photocopies, as proof of U.S. citizenship. Make sure all your identification is current and not expired. Keep everything in a safe folder, ready for its big day.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now for the application form itself. Head over to the Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) and generate your DS-11 (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals) form. It’s best to fill it out online and then print it; this ensures clarity and accuracy. Print single-sided, using black ink. For those completing the DS-11, **do not sign the form** until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They need to witness your signature. Read through all instructions carefully before you begin, and if you have any questions, jot them down to ask when you submit your application. Precision here prevents delays.
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, taken within the last six months, full-face view directly facing the camera, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms (unless religious, with a signed statement). Your expression should be neutral or a natural, slight smile. Finding a place in North Kohala for this can be tricky. While Kapaau is small, you might find photo services at larger pharmacies or print shops in nearby Waimea or Kona. Or, consider visiting the Hawi Post Office first to ask if they have photo capabilities or recommendations, as it’s just a short drive down Akoni Pule Highway.
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.
This is the moment of truth, especially for first-time applicants (DS-11) who must submit in person. You’ll need to visit a passport acceptance facility. The Kapaau Post Office is generally not an acceptance facility due to its size. Your best bet is to call ahead and schedule an appointment at the **Hawi Post Office** (55-3435 Akoni Pule Hwy, Hawi, HI 96719) or the **Waimea Post Office** (67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, HI 96743). Call them *before* you go to confirm their operating hours for passport services and whether appointments are required. Bring all your original documents, your photo, and your unsigned DS-11 form.
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.
Before you leave the acceptance facility, you’ll need to pay the required fees. There’s a passport application fee (payable to the U.S. Department of State, usually by check or money order) and an execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility, often by cash, credit card, or check). The exact amounts depend on whether you want a passport book, card, or both. Ask about current processing times; standard service can take several weeks. If you’re in a hurry, inquire about expedited service for an extra charge. You can usually track your application status online, and signing up for email updates is highly recommended so you know when your new passport is heading to your Kapaau mailbox.
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 KAPAAU
Make sure you have everything needed for KAPAAU facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ KAPAAU 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 KAPAAU’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 KAPAAU facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from KAPAAU.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in KAPAAU. 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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