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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Dig through that filing cabinet like you’re searching for game day tickets. Birth certificate, current ID, social security card – gather them like you’re prepping a tailgate spread. Louisiana Tech students, this means you too!
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.
Photos matter more than your football team’s record. Hit up the Walgreens on Tech Drive for professional shots that won’t make you look like you just survived finals week. No crazy expressions, no sunglasses – think professional, not party mode.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
New passport or renewal? Different forms, different fees. If you’re a first-timer, you’ll need the DS-11. Renewals get the DS-82. Think of it like choosing between home or away team jerseys – precision matters.
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.
The Lincoln Parish Clerk of Court is your go-to spot. Located right in downtown, they’ve processed more documents than Tech has scored touchdowns. Bring cash, check, or card – they’re ready for your passport fees.
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.
Fees vary based on book type and processing speed. Adult passports run about $130-$165. Pro tip: expedited services cost more but move faster than a Bulldog running a touchdown play.
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 submitted, track online like you’d follow a game’s live score. Most applications take 6-8 weeks standard, 2-3 weeks expedited. Soon you’ll be traveling further than our Tech football team’s away games!
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 Ruston
Make sure you have everything needed for Ruston facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Ruston 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 Ruston’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Ruston facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Ruston.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Ruston. 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
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Ruston.
Honest comparison to help Ruston residents choose the right option
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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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