Before anything else, determine if you’re a first-time applicant or simply need to update an expired passport. If it’s your very first passport, or if your previous one was lost, stolen, or issued when you were under 16, you’ll generally use Form DS-11. For adult passports issued within the last 15 years that are still in good condition, you can typically renew by mail using Form DS-82. Head to travel.state.gov and use their helpful passport wizard tool; it’s an excellent resource for confirming which form fits your specific situation and lists all necessary items. Knowing this upfront streamlines your entire journey, saving you time and potential headaches.

This step involves rounding up your critical documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll need either your original, certified birth certificate (not a photocopy, it must have the raised seal!) or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport. If you don’t have a certified birth certificate, contact the Vital Records office in the state where you were born to request one – for Michigan births, visit the MDHHS website. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification, like your Michigan driver’s license or state ID card. Remember, you’ll need both the original *and* a photocopy (front and back) of your ID for the application. Keep these safe!

Your passport photo isn’t just any picture; it has very specific requirements. It must be a recent (within the last six months) 2×2 inch color photo, taken against a plain white or off-white background. Crucially, no glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed. Your expression should be neutral or a natural, slight smile. Many local spots in Grand Rapids can help you get this right, including most CVS and Walgreens pharmacies, and often the AAA office on 28th Street SE. Some smaller photo studios in the area also offer passport photo services, ensuring it meets all the strict federal guidelines for acceptance.

Now it’s time to put pen to paper, or rather, print and then use black ink. Whether you’re completing Form DS-11 or DS-82, fill out every field completely and accurately. You can usually fill out the forms online and then print them, which often looks neater. Pay close attention to details like your full legal name, date of birth, and contact information. Here’s a crucial tip for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT sign the application form until you are instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature, so leave that line blank until your in-person appointment. Double-check everything for errors before moving on.

There are typically two separate payments for a new passport application: the application fee and the execution (or acceptance) fee. The application fee, which depends on whether you’re getting a passport book, card, or both, must be paid by check or money order made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State’. The execution fee is paid directly to the passport acceptance facility. This fee covers the cost of processing your application locally and can usually be paid by check, money order, or sometimes cash or credit card, depending on the facility. Always check current fees on travel.state.gov before preparing your payment, as they can change. Expedited services will incur additional costs.

This is your final hurdle! For new passport applications (DS-11), you must submit everything in person at an official passport acceptance facility. In the Grand Rapids area, several U.S. Post Office locations serve as acceptance facilities, including those in Grand Rapids itself (like on Bayberry Dr), Kentwood, and Wyoming. It’s highly recommended, and often required, to schedule an appointment online or by phone before you go. Bring all your original documents, photocopies, the unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photo, and your prepared payments. The acceptance agent will review your materials, witness your signature on the DS-11, and send your application off for processing.