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 to explore beyond the Ark-La-Tex? Getting your U.S. passport in Shreveport doesn’t have to be a bureaucratic headache. This guide walks you through each essential step, offering local insights to smooth out the process. From gathering your paperwork to knowing where to submit everything right here in town, we’ll help you prepare for your next international adventure.
Before anything else, figure out what kind of passport application you’ll be tackling. Are you applying for the very first time, replacing a lost one, or is your old passport simply expired (or expiring soon)? If you’ve never had a passport or your last one expired more than 15 years ago (or you were under 16 when it was issued), you’ll use Form DS-11. For adult renewals where your most recent passport is less than 15 years old and undamaged, the DS-82 form is your friend. Double-check your eligibility on the official State Department website to make sure you grab the correct form for your specific situation.
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.
This is where you hunt down your foundational documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you absolutely need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, your previous undamaged U.S. passport (if renewing), or your original Certificate of Naturalization. Remember, photocopies won’t cut it for this step – they need to see the real deal! For proof of identity, a valid state-issued driver’s license from Louisiana (or another state) is typically what you’ll use. Make sure it’s current. You’ll also need to provide a photocopy of *both* the front and back of your ID, separate from the original.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now it’s time to complete the actual application form. You can fill out the appropriate form (DS-11 or DS-82) online directly on the U.S. Department of State website, then print it out. If you prefer, print a blank form and fill it out by hand using *black ink only*. Pay close attention to detail; errors can cause delays. A crucial tip for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT SIGN THE FORM until you are explicitly instructed to do so by the acceptance agent at your appointment. They need to witness your signature to verify your identity.
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.
Your passport photo has very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last six months, a plain white or off-white background, and no glasses or hats. Maintain a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with both eyes open. Thankfully, getting this done correctly is easy in Shreveport. Most local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS offer passport photo services, as do UPS Store locations. They’re usually well-versed in the exact specs. Just pop in, and they can typically snap and print it for you in minutes.
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.
Once your application and documents are ready, it’s time to submit everything at an authorized acceptance facility. In Shreveport, excellent options include the Main Post Office on E 70th Street or the one on Claiborne Avenue. Another reliable choice is the Caddo Parish Clerk of Court’s office downtown. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to inquire about their operating hours for passport services and if an appointment is necessary. Bring all your original documents, copies, the unsigned DS-11 (if applicable), and your photo. They’ll review everything carefully.
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 step involves handling the fees. There are generally two payments: the application fee (paid directly to the ‘U.S. Department of State’ via check or money order) and the execution fee (paid separately to the acceptance facility, often by cash, check, or credit card). Check the current fee schedule on the State Department’s website, as it can change. Understand that routine processing can take several weeks or even months, while expedited service costs extra but significantly speeds things up. Plan accordingly, especially if you have upcoming travel dates in mind.
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 shreveport
Make sure you have everything needed for shreveport facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ shreveport 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 shreveport’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Caddo Parish and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no shreveport facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from shreveport.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in shreveport. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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