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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Let’s walk through your passport journey, Grimes style.
First things first—are you a first-time applicant or looking to renew? New travelers will need more documentation, while renewals are typically smoother. If you’ve gotten a passport before, especially one issued within the last 15 years, you’re likely in the renewal category. Pro tip: check your existing passport’s expiration date carefully.
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.
Gather those critical documents like you’re preparing for the county fair competition. You’ll need proof of citizenship (birth certificate), a valid photo ID, and recent passport photos. Pro locals know to get photos at the Grimes pharmacy—they understand our specific requirements and won’t let you down.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Fill out Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Take your time and double-check every detail. A mistake here can delay your travel plans faster than a summer thunderstorm rolls through central Iowa. Accuracy is key, and our local staff can help review your paperwork.
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 is your international calling card. In Grimes, we recommend the local pharmacy or city hall for professional-quality shots. No weird expressions, neutral background, and make sure your face is fully visible. Think professional, not party mode.
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.
Head to the designated local facility—typically City Hall or our trusted postal locations. Bring all original documents, not copies. Our community understands the importance of these moments, so expect friendly, thorough service that makes the process feel less like bureaucracy and more like neighborly assistance.
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.
Payment time! Fees vary based on passport type and processing speed. Bring a check or credit card, and be prepared for standard government processing times. Current rates range from $130 for a standard book to $190 for expedited service. Pro Grimes tip: plan ahead and save on rush fees whenever possible.
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 Grimes
Make sure you have everything needed for Grimes facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Grimes 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 Grimes’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 Grimes facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Grimes.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Grimes. 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
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Grimes.
Honest comparison to help Grimes residents choose the right option
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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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