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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Embarking on an international adventure from Haverhill, MA, means securing your passport first! This guide will walk you through the process, making it simple and straightforward. Forget the jargon; we’ll use natural language and point out local tips to get you ready for your global travels. Let’s get that passport in hand!
Before anything else, understand if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or renewing an old one. If this is your very first passport, or your previous one was issued before you turned 16, or it’s been lost/stolen, you’ll be completing the DS-11 form as a ‘first-time applicant.’ However, if you’re over 16, your old passport is less than 15 years old, and you still have it, you’re likely eligible for a simpler renewal using the DS-82 form. Carefully reviewing these criteria on the official travel.state.gov website will save you immense time and ensure you gather the correct paperwork for your specific situation. This initial step dictates your entire application journey.
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.
Now it’s time to gather your vital documentation. For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship, which typically means your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as your Massachusetts driver’s license. Remember, for birth certificates, if you were born here in Haverhill, you might be able to request a certified copy from the Haverhill City Clerk’s office at City Hall. Ensure all documents are current and original; photocopies won’t cut it for citizenship proof. Having everything in order before your appointment is paramount to a smooth process.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your documents identified, tackle the actual application form. Head to travel.state.gov and download either the DS-11 (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals). Print it out, preferably on separate pages, and fill out every section clearly and accurately. Pay close attention to detail, as errors can cause delays. A crucial tip for DS-11 applicants: *do not sign* the form until you are in front of the Passport Acceptance Agent. They must witness your signature. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign it before mailing. Double-check all spellings and dates against your supporting documents to ensure absolute consistency.
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 must meet strict guidelines – no glasses, a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, taken against a plain white or off-white background, and sized 2×2 inches. It also needs to be current, taken within the last six months. Don’t try to use an old selfie! Thankfully, several convenient spots right here in Haverhill offer passport photo services. You can pop into your local CVS or Walgreens, both of which typically have staff trained to take compliant photos. It’s often worth the small fee to ensure it meets all requirements, saving you a potential headache down the line.
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.
For new passport applications (DS-11), you must submit everything in person at an official acceptance facility. The main Haverhill Post Office, located at 25 Locust St, is a designated passport acceptance facility. It’s highly advisable to schedule an appointment online or by phone beforehand, as walk-ins might face long waits or be turned away. When you go, bring all your original documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photo, and your payment. The agent will review your materials, administer an oath, witness your signature, and seal your application for mailing. Remember, they won’t accept incomplete applications.
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.
Finally, you’ll need to pay the applicable fees. The passport application fee itself must be paid to the “U.S. Department of State” by personal check, certified check, cashier’s check, or money order. The acceptance facility (like the Post Office) also charges a separate execution fee, which can often be paid by credit card or money order. Make sure you have both payment methods ready! Once everything is submitted, you can track the status of your application online using the locator number provided at travel.state.gov. Processing times vary, so if you need it quickly, consider expedited service, though it comes with an extra cost.
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 haverhill
Make sure you have everything needed for haverhill facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ haverhill 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 haverhill’s 9 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Essex County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no haverhill facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from haverhill.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in haverhill. 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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