First-Time Passport: Complete Checklist for 2025
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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Ready to explore beyond the shores of Waimanalo? Securing your U.S. passport is your first step to global adventures. This guide will walk you through the process, providing local tips to make your journey from the windward side to worldwide travel smooth and easy. Let’s get started!
Before anything else, understand if you’re a first-time applicant or simply updating an expired book. If you’ve never had a passport, your previous one was lost/stolen, or it’s over 15 years old, you’ll use Form DS-11 for a ‘new’ passport. This requires an in-person appointment. However, if your most recent passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago, was issued when you were 16 or older, and is in good condition, you’ll likely renew by mail using Form DS-82. Knowing this upfront saves a lot of time and ensures you gather the correct documents and follow the right submission path.
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 collect the critical documents that prove who you are and your U.S. citizenship. For most new applicants (DS-11), this means your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued ID, like your Hawaii Driver’s License, along with a photocopy of *both sides* of this ID. Remember, original documents are usually required and will be returned to you. For renewals (DS-82), your old passport typically serves as both proof of identity and citizenship. Double-check all expiration dates!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Your passport photo isn’t just any snapshot; it must meet strict federal guidelines. Think recent (within 6 months), color, plain white background, and a neutral facial expression (no big smiles!). You can’t wear glasses, hats, or uniforms. While there isn’t a dedicated passport photo shop *in* Waimanalo proper, you can find reliable services at places like Longs Drugs or CVS in nearby Kailua or Kaneohe. Call ahead to confirm their photo service availability and hours before making the short drive over Pali Highway or H-3. Two identical photos are generally needed.
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.
This step is crucial for accuracy. Depending on your situation (new vs. renewal), you’ll either complete Form DS-11 or DS-82. You can fill these out online on the U.S. Department of State website and then print them, or print blank forms and fill them in neatly by hand using black ink. Be meticulous! Every field needs an accurate answer. If you’re using Form DS-11 for a new passport, **do not sign it until you are instructed to by the passport acceptance agent** during your in-person appointment. Signing early could invalidate 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.
Financial preparation is key! There are typically two separate fees. The application fee (for the U.S. Department of State) generally requires a personal check or money order. *No cash or credit cards accepted for this federal fee.* For the execution fee (paid to the acceptance facility for DS-11 applications), it’s usually around $35 and can often be paid with cash, check, or credit card directly to the facility. Keep these payments separate! Review the current fee schedule on the State Department’s website, as prices can change, especially if you’re adding expedited service.
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.
Finally, it’s time for the big handover! If you’re renewing with a DS-82 form, you’ll mail your application directly to the specified address. For a new passport (DS-11), you must submit everything in person to an authorized passport acceptance facility. Unfortunately, the Waimanalo Post Office doesn’t currently offer passport services. Your closest options are typically the Kaneohe Post Office or facilities in Honolulu like the main downtown post office. *Always make an appointment* beforehand, especially at busy locations, to avoid long waits and ensure they have an agent available to review your documents.
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 WAIMANALO
Make sure you have everything needed for WAIMANALO facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ WAIMANALO 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 WAIMANALO’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 WAIMANALO facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from WAIMANALO.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in WAIMANALO. 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.
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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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