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Ready for your next adventure beyond Maui’s beautiful shores? Getting a passport from Paia, Hawaii, is a straightforward journey, but it requires a few specific steps. This guide will help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring you have all your ducks in a row for that exciting international trip. Let’s get started on securing your travel document!
Before anything else, figure out if you’re applying for your very first U.S. passport or renewing an old one. This crucial distinction dictates which form you’ll need and whether you must apply in person. 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 use Form DS-11. For those simply updating an expired or soon-to-expire passport that was issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 or older, Form DS-82 is your ticket. Understanding this upfront saves a lot of time and effort.
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.
Now it’s time to hunt down the essential documents that prove who you are and where you come from. For first-time applicants (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, typically your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID, like your Hawaii driver’s license. Renewals (DS-82) generally just require your most recent passport. Always bring the originals for everything; copies aren’t usually accepted as primary evidence. Keep these precious documents safe!
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 sorted, it’s time to fill out the correct application form. You can find both DS-11 and DS-82 forms online on the U.S. Department of State website. Print them out clearly and fill them using black ink. Be meticulous! Any mistakes could delay your application significantly. Don’t sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent, as they need to witness your signature. The DS-82 form for renewals can be signed at home before mailing. Double-check every field for accuracy to avoid hiccups down the line.
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.
A passport photo isn’t just any snapshot; it has very specific requirements. It must be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches in size, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No hats, glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), or uniforms are allowed. Maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. You can get these photos taken at many local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens in Kahului, which are just a short drive from Paia. Some photography studios on Maui also offer passport photo services, ensuring you meet all the strict guidelines.
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.
For first-time applicants using Form DS-11, you *must* submit your application in person at an official passport acceptance facility. The closest options for Paia residents are typically the main Post Offices in Kahului (100 Lono Ave) or Wailuku (1256 N Church St). Call ahead to confirm their passport service hours and if an appointment is needed. Remember to bring all your original documents, the filled-out form (unsigned DS-11!), and your passport photo. Renewal applications (DS-82) can generally be mailed directly to the address listed on the form, saving you a trip.
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.
The final step at the acceptance facility involves paying the required fees. Passport fees usually need to be paid by check or money order, made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ There’s also an execution fee paid to the acceptance facility, which might be payable by cash, credit card, or check. Confirm payment methods when you schedule your visit. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. Standard processing times can vary, so check the State Department’s website for current estimates. You can often pay extra for expedited service if your travel plans are fast-approaching. Now, the waiting game begins – soon, you’ll have your passport in hand!
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 PAIA
Make sure you have everything needed for PAIA facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ PAIA 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 PAIA’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 PAIA facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from PAIA.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in PAIA. 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 PAIA residents choose the right option
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