Before diving into paperwork, figure out what kind of passport application you’re dealing with. Are you a first-timer, perhaps a college student from Tulane or Loyola finally ready to explore the world? Then you’ll use Form DS-11. Is it time to renew an old passport, maybe one with a faded stamp from Mardi Gras past in another country? That’s Form DS-82, usually submitted by mail. Applying for a child under 16 involves special rules and requires both parents to be present, making it a DS-11 submission. If your old passport is lost or stolen, you’ll also complete a DS-11, plus an additional statement. Knowing this upfront saves you valuable time and prevents missteps, ensuring you gather the correct items right from the start.

Now, let’s get serious about gathering your proof. For a brand-new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship. This usually means your original birth certificate – the one with the raised seal – or a previous, undamaged passport. For those born in Louisiana, you can request certified copies from the Louisiana Department of Health, Vital Records Registry, or locally at the Orleans Parish Clerk of Civil District Court. Don’t forget your valid government-issued identification, like your Louisiana driver’s license. You’ll present both the original ID and a clear photocopy (front and back) during your appointment. For renewals (DS-82), your previous passport typically suffices as both proof of citizenship and identity.

Alright, it’s time to fill out the actual form. You can usually complete Forms DS-11 or DS-82 online at the U.S. Department of State website and then print them out, but *do not sign* the DS-11 until you’re in front of a Passport Acceptance Agent. Accuracy is paramount here; even small errors can delay your application. Double-check names, dates, and addresses. For DS-82 renewals, ensure all information matches your most recent passport. Print clearly if you’re filling it out by hand. Having all your documents handy makes this step much quicker. Remember, a careful review now saves you a bureaucratic headache later, so take your time and read every instruction.

Time for your close-up! Your passport photo has strict requirements: it must be a recent (within 6 months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background, and you need a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. No glasses, no hats, and make sure your ears are visible! Don’t try to take this yourself unless you’re a pro; many local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens around New Orleans offer passport photo services that guarantee compliance. Even some professional print shops in areas like the CBD or Mid-City can handle it. This little picture is crucial, as non-compliant photos are a frequent cause for application delays.

The moment of truth: paying for your passport. The primary fee for the passport book varies, currently $130 for adults. If you’re submitting a DS-11 (new passport or minor), there’s an additional $35 ‘execution fee’ paid directly to the acceptance facility. You’ll usually pay the passport fee itself via check or money order made out to ‘U.S. Department of State.’ Many acceptance facilities in NOLA will accept credit cards, checks, or money orders for their execution fee. Consider adding expedited service or 1-2 day delivery if you’re in a hurry for that spontaneous trip or an urgent family matter. Check current fees on the Department of State website before heading out, as they can change.

This is it – the final step! If you’re renewing with a DS-82, simply mail your application, old passport, photo, and payment to the address specified on the form. For a new passport (DS-11), you *must* submit it in person. Head to a Passport Acceptance Facility. In New Orleans, several U.S. Post Offices serve this purpose, like the one on Loyola Avenue or the facility on Magazine Street. Some Clerk of Court offices, such as the Orleans Parish Civil District Court, also accept applications by appointment. Call ahead to confirm their hours and if an appointment is necessary. An Acceptance Agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and ensure all your documents are in order before sending them off. Good luck, traveler!