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Ready to explore the world? Getting your passport in Edwardsville doesn’t have to be a headache. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering straightforward steps and local tips to help you secure your travel document. Forget the jargon; we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from paperwork to local facilities, so you can focus on planning your next adventure.
Before you gather a single document, clarify your situation. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport (this includes minors, even if they’ve had one before, as they always apply in person)? Or are you simply renewing an expired or soon-to-expire adult passport? First-time applicants, and anyone under 16, use Form DS-11 and must apply in person. Renewals for adults (whose previous passport was issued within the last 15 years, when they were 16 or older, and is undamaged) can often use Form DS-82 and mail it in. Understanding this initial distinction saves a lot of time and ensures you’re on the right path from the start.
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.
This step involves gathering your essential identity and citizenship documents. For U.S. citizenship, you’ll need an original (not a copy!) document like your previous U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. For identity, a valid government-issued ID such as your Illinois driver’s license or state ID is perfect. **Crucially, you’ll need a photocopy of EACH document (front and back for IDs, front only for citizenship documents), separate from the original, to submit with your application.** Ensure these copies are clear and legible. Don’t forget, if you’re applying for a minor, you’ll need their birth certificate, previous passport (if any), and both parents’ IDs and photocopies.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Time to complete the appropriate application form. Head over to the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to find the DS-11 (for new applicants/minors) or DS-82 (for renewals). It’s highly recommended to fill out the form online, print it, and bring it with you. This minimizes errors and speeds up the process at the acceptance facility. **A vital note for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT sign the form until you are instructed to do so by the Passport Acceptance Agent.** They need to witness your signature. Read through all instructions on the form carefully to ensure you’ve provided accurate and complete information, as even small errors can cause 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.
You’ll need a recent, color photograph that meets very specific requirements – no selfies here! The photo must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms (unless it’s religious attire worn daily) are allowed. Your expression should be neutral or a natural, slight smile. For convenience in Edwardsville, you can typically get compliant passport photos taken at local drugstores like CVS or Walgreens, or at shipping centers such as The UPS Store. They’re familiar with the requirements and can usually get you set up quickly.
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 and minors, you must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Edwardsville, your primary option is often the **Edwardsville Post Office (103 W Vandalia St, Edwardsville, IL 62025)**. You might also find services at the **SIUE Passport Acceptance Facility (Morris University Center, Room 1207, Edwardsville, IL 62026-1033)**, but it’s always wise to call ahead and confirm their hours, appointment requirements, and current services. Gather all your original documents, photocopies, completed (but unsigned DS-11) form, and passport photo. Be prepared for a brief interview with the acceptance agent, who will verify your identity and witness your signature.
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.
At the acceptance facility, you’ll pay two separate fees. The application fee (to the U.S. Department of State) generally requires a check or money order. The execution fee (to the acceptance facility) can often be paid by credit card, cash, check, or money order, but confirm their accepted payment methods beforehand. Once everything is submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number or instructions on how to check your application status online via travel.state.gov. Standard processing times vary, so if you have upcoming travel, consider opting for expedited service (for an additional fee). Now, the hardest part: waiting for your new passport to arrive in the mail!
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 edwardsville
Make sure you have everything needed for edwardsville facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ edwardsville 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 edwardsville’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Madison County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no edwardsville facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from edwardsville.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in edwardsville. 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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