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 for an adventure beyond the Wabash Valley? Getting your U.S. passport in Terre Haute doesn’t have to be a confusing journey. This straightforward guide walks you through each necessary step, making the process smoother than a walk in Deming Park. Let’s get your travel dreams closer to reality, Terre Haute style!
Before you dive into paperwork, figure out if this is your very first passport, or if you’re simply renewing an expired or expiring one. If you’re applying for a minor (under 16), or if your last passport was lost, stolen, or issued more than 15 years ago, you’ll generally need the DS-11 form, which requires an in-person application. However, if you meet specific criteria – like having a passport issued within the last 15 years, being over 16 at the time of issue, and still having it in good condition – you can likely use the DS-82 renewal form by mail. This crucial first step determines the entire path ahead, so double-check your situation on the State Department’s website.
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.
Time to play detective for your essential documents! For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, like your original birth certificate (not a hospital copy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid photo ID, such as your Indiana driver’s license. Critically, bring both the originals AND a photocopy of the front and back of each document. The acceptance facility needs these copies for their records, and they’ll return your originals on the spot. Don’t overlook this detail; missing copies can cause delays. For renewals (DS-82), usually just your old passport suffices.
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 main event: completing your application form. Depending on whether you’re a first-timer or renewing, you’ll be looking for either Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) or Form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals). You can find these forms online at the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). It’s often easiest to fill out the form digitally and then print it, ensuring all information is legible. Remember, if you’re completing a DS-11, DO NOT sign it until you are in front of the acceptance agent at your appointment. They need to witness your signature.
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 good passport photo is non-negotiable! It needs to be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches, with a white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons, with a signed statement), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t try to take this yourself unless you’re confident in meeting all strict requirements. Luckily, several places around Terre Haute can help. You can swing by CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, or even the UPS Store; they all offer passport photo services that ensure your picture meets the specific federal guidelines, saving you potential headaches.
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 DS-11 applications (new passports or for minors), you must submit your documents in person at an official Passport Acceptance Facility. In Terre Haute, your primary options are the U.S. Post Office locations. The Main Post Office at 333 W. Wabash Ave. and the North Terre Haute Branch Post Office at 2225 Lafayette Ave. are known acceptance facilities. It’s highly recommended to call ahead or check their online scheduling tool for an appointment, as walk-in services can be limited or subject to long waits. Make sure to confirm their passport service hours before you head out, as they can differ from regular mail hours.
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 stretch involves payment. You’ll need two separate payments for a new passport. The application fee, payable to the U.S. Department of State, must be a check or money order – they don’t accept cash or credit cards for this portion. The execution fee, paid to the acceptance facility (like the Post Office), can typically be paid by cash, credit card, or check. Check the current fee schedule on travel.state.gov. Once everything is verified and paid for, your application will be sealed and mailed by the acceptance agent. You’ll receive a tracking number and can monitor your passport’s progress online. Patience, your new travel document is on its way!
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 terre haute
Make sure you have everything needed for terre haute facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ terre haute 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 terre haute’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Vigo County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no terre haute facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from terre haute.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in terre haute. 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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