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Ready to explore the world beyond Maine? Getting your passport in Lewiston doesn’t have to be a headache. We’ve compiled a straightforward guide, packed with local tips, to help you navigate the process. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to securing that little blue book for your next adventure!
Before anything else, you need to determine if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an existing one. This distinction is crucial as it dictates which form you’ll use and what documentation you’ll need. If you’ve never had a passport, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if it’s lost/stolen, you’ll be completing Form DS-11. For those with an undamaged, unexpired (or recently expired) passport issued after age 16, you’ll likely use the simpler Form DS-82 for renewal by mail. Kids under 16 have specific requirements too, often involving both parents, so double-check those details if applicable. Knowing this upfront saves a lot of time!
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 step is all about rounding up the proof of who you are and where you come from. You’ll need original documents, plus a photocopy of each, front and back. For proof of U.S. citizenship, dig out your original birth certificate (with a raised seal), a previous undamaged passport, or a certificate of naturalization. For identity, your valid Maine driver’s license is perfect, but other government-issued IDs work too. Remember, both original documents and their clear, legible photocopies are required. Don’t just grab your originals; making those copies beforehand will save you a trip or a small fee at the acceptance facility. Ensure your name matches across all documents to avoid delays.
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 get down to business with the actual application form. You can find forms DS-11 (for new passports) and DS-82 (for renewals) on the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). It’s highly recommended to fill it out online and then print it, as it helps prevent errors and ensures legibility. Pay close attention to every field – accuracy is key! If you’re filling out a DS-11, **do not sign it yet!** This form must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent. For DS-82 renewals, you’ll sign it yourself before mailing. Take your time, double-check all dates and spellings, and make sure everything is current and correct.
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 some very specific requirements, so don’t just use a selfie! It needs to be a recent (within the last 6 months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes, with a signed statement), and maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t worry about finding a specialty studio; most local pharmacies are equipped for this. In Lewiston, places like CVS Pharmacy on Lisbon Street or Walgreens on Sabattus Street offer passport photo services that adhere to the official guidelines, making this step quick and convenient. Just walk in and ask!
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 can’t just mail everything in; you need to appear in person at an official passport acceptance facility. In Lewiston, the most common and reliable spot is the **U.S. Post Office located at 250 Lisbon Street**. It’s always a good idea to call ahead (207-783-0941) to confirm their passport service hours and if an appointment is needed, especially during peak travel seasons. When you go, bring all your original documents, the photocopies, your completed (but unsigned!) DS-11 form, your passport photo, and your payment. The acceptance agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and seal your documents for submission.
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.
There are fees associated with your passport application: an application fee and often an execution fee (if submitting in person). You’ll pay the application fee directly to the U.S. Department of State (usually by check or money order), and the execution fee to the acceptance facility (often by cash, check, or credit card – confirm with the post office directly). After everything is submitted, all that’s left is the waiting game. Processing times can vary significantly, especially for standard service, so check the State Department’s website for current estimates. You’ll receive a tracking number, allowing you to monitor your application’s status online. Try to apply well in advance of any travel plans to avoid needing costly expedited services.
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 lewiston
Make sure you have everything needed for lewiston facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ lewiston 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 lewiston’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Androscoggin County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no lewiston facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from lewiston.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in lewiston. 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.
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