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.
Read More →Get Your U.S. Passport Fast in La Plata, Maryland
Expert expedited service from $147 — Processing in as fast as 3 days with zero errors guaranteed
✓
500,000+ Passports
⭐
4.8/5 Rating
🔒
State Dept. Authorized
What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in La Plata
Trusted by 500,000+ Customers Since 1992
UPS
Make-A-Wish
Coca-Cola
State Dept. Authorized
As seen in:
The New York Times
Forbes
USA TODAY
NBC
AI Passport Assistant for La Plata
Ask me anything about getting your passport in La Plata — instant expert answers
✓
Guaranteed to Make Your Trip
We’ll handle everything from your La Plata home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from La Plata Residents
Based on verified reports from La Plata applicants (last updated: )
56
Average Days
Routine Service
8 Weeks
Typical Range
90% of cases
3-6 Days
Days with Us
Average expedited
Note: Government states “” but actual La Plata times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in La Plata, Maryland
Let’s break down your passport process step by step, La Plata style.
1
Figure Out: New Traveler or Renewal?
First things first—are you a passport newbie or looking to refresh your travel credentials? La Plata’s County Clerk can help you distinguish between first-time applications and renewals. New applicants will need more comprehensive documentation, while renewal seekers have a slightly smoother path.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
2
Hunt Down Your Crucial Paperwork
Time to channel your inner document detective. You’ll need proof of citizenship (birth certificate), valid government ID, and social security card. La Plata residents recommend making copies and double-checking everything before your appointment to avoid any frustrating delays.
💡 Pro Tip:
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
3
Capture That Perfect Passport Portrait
Your passport photo is your international first impression! While CVS on Charles Street offers reliable services, ensure your photo meets strict federal guidelines. No sunglasses, neutral expressions, and make sure your face is fully visible against a plain background.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
4
Complete Your Application Like a Pro
Form DS-11 for new passports requires precision. Fill it out at home, but don’t sign until a certified agent witnesses you. Pro La Plata tip: Use black ink, print clearly, and avoid any cross-outs or messy corrections.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
5
Submit with Confidence
Head to the Charles County Governmental Center with your meticulously prepared packet. Bring original documents, photocopies, your completed form, and payment. Our local staff are known for their patience and helpful guidance through each submission.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
6
Handle Those Processing Fees
Passport fees vary based on type and processing speed. Current rates range from expedited to standard processing. La Plata tip: Have a check or money order ready—cash and personal checks aren’t always accepted. Budget for both application and execution fees.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
Smart Tools for La Plata Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from La Plata
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for La Plata facilities
Photo Validator
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
✓ Requirements:
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in La Plata:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most La Plata facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in La Plata:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most La Plata facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in La Plata
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ La Plata 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.
New Passport vs. Renewal in La Plata
Understanding which process applies to you
New Passport
- First-time applicants (never had a U.S. passport)
- Children under 16 applying for their first passport
- Previous passport lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition
- Passport issued before age 16 and you’re now over 16
- Passport issued more than 15 years ago
📍 Must Apply in Person
New passport applications require you to visit one of La Plata’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewal
- Current passport in your possession (undamaged)
- Passport issued when you were 16 or older
- Passport issued within last 15 years
- Passport issued in your current name (or you can document name change)
- Adult passport holder (age 16+)
✉️ Can Mail It In
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no La Plata facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from La Plata.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in La Plata. 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.
All La Plata Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for La Plata.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help La Plata residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at La Plata Facility
Use PassportsAndVisas.com
Processing Time
8-11 weeks standard
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
1-3 business days guaranteed
Convenience
Visit facility, wait in line, limited hours
Done from your La Plata home—we handle everything
Document Review
Basic check at facility (errors common)
Expert review before submission—99% error-free
Passport Photo
$10-15 at facility, quality varies
Professional photo included free
Application Tracking
Basic online status (3 stages only)
Real-time SMS/email updates + dedicated specialist
Error Protection
Self-responsible for mistakes (30% error rate)
Zero-error guarantee—we fix mistakes at our cost
Delivery
USPS First-Class (no tracking)
Priority delivery with full tracking to La Plata
Support
Facility hours only, general help
24/7 support + dedicated specialist
Total Cost
$165 (new) or $130 (renewal)
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
From $147 (all-inclusive)
Frequently Asked Questions
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Standard passport fees in La Plata are $130 for an adult passport book, $100 for a passport card, and $160 for both. Renewal fees are slightly lower. Children under 16 have reduced rates of $80 for a passport book. These fees can be paid by check or money order at the Charles County Circuit Court clerk’s office in La Plata.
The primary passport application location in La Plata is the Charles County Circuit Court located at 200 Kent Street. They accept applications Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended to reduce waiting times and ensure all documentation is correctly processed.
Standard passport processing in La Plata typically takes 6-8 weeks for routine service. Expedited services are available for an additional fee and reduce processing time to approximately 2-3 weeks. Emergency or urgent travel situations might qualify for even faster processing at the local passport acceptance facility.
While walk-ins are accepted at the La Plata Circuit Court, making an appointment is strongly recommended. This ensures shorter wait times, allows staff to prepare for your specific documentation needs, and provides a more streamlined application experience. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling the clerk’s office directly.
For passport applications in La Plata, bring a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, plus proof of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate or naturalization document. If you’re renewing, bring your previous passport. Original documents are required; photocopies are not accepted.
Passport services in La Plata are typically only available during weekday business hours at the Charles County Circuit Court. Weekend services are not standard. However, some local post offices might offer limited weekend hours for passport applications. It’s best to check current availability and schedule an appointment in advance.
Only U.S. citizens can obtain a U.S. passport. Permanent residents or non-citizens must follow different procedures. If you’re in the process of becoming a citizen, you’ll need to complete naturalization first. The La Plata Circuit Court can provide guidance on citizenship requirements and documentation.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
Expert Passport & Travel Resources
Stay informed with our latest guides and tips
Passport Guide
Travel Tips
10 Countries Americans Can Visit Without a Visa
Discover which destinations welcome U.S. passport holders without additional visa requirements.
Read More →
Visa Guide
Understanding Visa Types: Tourist, Business & More
A comprehensive guide to different visa categories and when you might need them for international travel.
Read More →