Before gathering a single paper, clarify your passport situation. Are you applying for your very first passport? Is your old one expired, lost, or stolen, requiring a brand-new application? Or are you simply renewing an unexpired or recently expired passport that you still possess? First-time applicants, minors (under 16), and those replacing a lost/stolen passport typically use Form DS-11 and must apply in person. If you’re renewing an adult passport issued within the last 15 years, you’ll likely use Form DS-82 and can mail it in. Knowing this upfront will dictate which forms you need and where you’ll submit your application.

Now it’s time to assemble your essential identification. For first-time applicants, this means a certified birth certificate (not a photocopy, it must have the raised seal!) or your original naturalization certificate. If you’ve been issued a passport before, that can serve as proof of citizenship. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as your Kentucky driver’s license, and a photocopy of the front and back of that ID. Ensure all documents are originals; photocopies are only acceptable for the ID portion, unless specified otherwise. Keep these precious documents safe until submission day!

Your passport photo is a critical piece, so make sure it meets all the strict requirements. It needs to be a recent (within 6 months) color photo, 2×2 inches, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No hats, no glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t try to take this yourself unless you’re confident in meeting all guidelines. Luckily, Bowling Green offers several convenient spots for this! You can get official passport photos taken at most local CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store locations right here in town. Just ask for their passport photo service.

With your documents and photo ready, it’s time to tackle the application form itself. You can find the correct form (DS-11 for first-timers/minors or DS-82 for renewals) on the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). It’s best to fill it out online and then print it, as this helps prevent errors. Remember, if you’re a first-time applicant using Form DS-11, **DO NOT SIGN IT** before your appointment! You must sign it in front of the acceptance agent. Fill in all sections accurately and completely to avoid any processing delays.

Understanding the fees is next. There are two primary costs: the passport book fee and the execution (acceptance) fee. The passport book fee (for the Department of State) must be paid by check or money order, made out to ‘U.S. Department of State.’ The execution fee (for the facility that processes your application) is a separate payment and can often be paid by check, money order, or sometimes credit card, depending on the facility. Check the Department of State website for current fees. You can obtain money orders at the Bowling Green Post Office or from most local banks like US Bank or PNC.

For first-time applicants (DS-11), minors, or those replacing a lost/stolen passport, in-person submission is a must. Bring all your original documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your photo, and your two separate payments. In Bowling Green, you have a couple of options: the U.S. Post Office at 1001 Wilkinson Way, or the Warren County Clerk’s Office at 429 E 10th Ave. It’s highly recommended to call ahead to either facility to confirm their passport acceptance hours and whether an appointment is necessary. If you’re renewing by mail (DS-82), simply send your completed form, old passport, photo, and payment to the address specified on the form.