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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Getting a passport can feel like a mission, especially for busy individuals at Fort Campbell. Whether planning an overseas PCS, a much-needed family vacation, or just being prepared, securing your passport doesn’t have to be a headache. This guide breaks down the process into clear, actionable steps, tailored for our Fort Campbell community.
Before you dive into the paperwork, figure out if you’re applying for your very first passport, replacing a lost one, or simply renewing an expired one. This initial choice guides which form you’ll need. New applicants, anyone under 16, or those with a lost/stolen passport will use Form DS-11. If you’re a servicemember on Fort Campbell preparing for an overseas PCS, you’ll likely be a first-timer for an official passport, but a DS-11 is also often used for personal passports. If your previous passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, and is less than 15 years old, you can likely use Form DS-82 for a renewal. Remember, minors always require a DS-11.
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.
Gathering these items upfront will save you immense hassle. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship – this means your original birth certificate (the long-form, government-issued one with a raised seal!), a previous undamaged passport, or a naturalization certificate. No photocopies here; they want the actual originals. Next, round up your proof of identity. For those on post, your Common Access Card (CAC) or state-issued driver’s license is perfect. For minors, you’ll need their birth certificate, both parents’ IDs, and sometimes proof of parental relationship. Double-check expiration dates on all identification; nothing delays a passport faster than an expired ID.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Don’t underestimate the photo’s importance; strict rules apply! You’ll need one current, color photo, sized exactly 2×2 inches, taken within the last six months. It must have a plain white or off-white background. Make sure you’re facing directly forward with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Crucially, no glasses, hats, or uniforms (unless for religious purposes or medical necessity). Many places around Fort Campbell, like the PX (Post Exchange) photo center, Walgreens, or CVS in nearby Clarksville, offer passport photo services that ensure compliance. Getting this right saves a potential rejection later.
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.
Head over to travel.state.gov to access the correct application form (DS-11 or DS-82). It’s highly recommended to fill it out online and then print it single-sided. Accuracy is key here; double-check all names, dates, and addresses. If you’re using the DS-11 form for a new passport, do NOT sign it until you are specifically instructed to do so by an acceptance agent at the facility. This is a critical step to prevent issues during submission. Take your time with this part; errors can lead to processing delays, which nobody wants when planning travel or preparing for a new duty station.
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.
This is where all your hard work comes together! You can’t just mail in a new passport application (DS-11). On Fort Campbell, your most convenient option is often the **Fort Campbell Post Office**. Call ahead to confirm their passport acceptance hours and appointment requirements. They will have authorized agents to review your documents and witness your signature. Alternatively, nearby acceptance facilities in Clarksville, TN, or Oak Grove, KY, include various post office branches and the Montgomery County Clerk’s Office. Be ready with two separate payments: one for the application fee (payable to the U.S. Department of State) and another for the execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility).
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.
Once your application is submitted and accepted, you’ll typically receive a tracking number or receipt. You can then monitor the status of your passport application online at travel.state.gov. Processing times can vary greatly, so always check current estimates for routine versus expedited services, especially if you have an urgent overseas travel requirement like an unexpected PCS. If you opted for expedited service, remember it costs extra. Be patient; the passport will arrive in due course, often in separate mailings for the passport book and any original documents you submitted. Knowing your passport is in the pipeline can alleviate stress for upcoming travel plans or military orders.
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 fort campbell
Make sure you have everything needed for fort campbell facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ fort campbell 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 fort campbell’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Christian County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no fort campbell facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from fort campbell.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in fort campbell. 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
Honest comparison to help fort campbell residents choose the right option
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