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 the world? Getting your U.S. passport in Brookhaven, MS, is simpler than you might think. This guide walks you through each necessary step, ensuring you gather the right materials and know exactly where to go. Soon, you’ll be set to embark on international adventures!
Before anything else, figure out your passport status. Are you applying for the very first time, meaning you’ll use Form DS-11, or are you renewing an existing passport with Form DS-82? If you’re renewing, check your current passport’s expiration date; it needs to be unexpired or have expired less than five years ago. Also, make sure it wasn’t issued when you were under 16. New applicants, including children, must always apply in person, while many renewals can be done by mail. Knowing which category you fall into streamlines the entire process, preventing unnecessary trips or delays. This initial distinction sets the stage for all subsequent actions.
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 a critical step! You’ll need original evidence of your U.S. citizenship. For most folks, this means an original birth certificate (the long-form version with a raised seal, not a hospital-issued copy) or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport. If you were naturalized, bring your original Certificate of Naturalization. Alongside this, you’ll need a valid, unexpired photo ID, like your Mississippi driver’s license, both the original and a photocopy (front and back). Remember, no digital copies will do here; the acceptance facility agent needs to see and verify the physical documents. Having these ready prevents any last-minute scrambling.
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, it’s time to tackle the application form itself. Head to the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to download either the DS-11 (for first-timers or those not eligible for renewal by mail) or the DS-82 (for renewals). It’s highly recommended to fill out the form online and then print it; this helps ensure clarity and accuracy. Pay close attention to every field, double-checking names, dates, and addresses. Most importantly, do NOT sign the DS-11 form yet! It must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent when you submit your application.
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 very specific guidelines: 2×2 inches, full color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. You should have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, with both eyes open. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed. Fortunately, getting a compliant photo in Brookhaven is straightforward. Local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS are excellent options, offering quick and professional passport photo services right here in town. Just pop in, and they’ll handle the specifics to ensure your photo is ready for submission.
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.
Now for the big moment: submitting your application. If you’re a first-time applicant or using form DS-11, you must appear in person. The most common place in Brookhaven for this is the U.S. Post Office located at 125 E Cherokee St. Call ahead to confirm their passport acceptance hours, as they can vary. Bring all your original documents (proof of citizenship, photo ID), your unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo. An authorized agent will review everything, witness your signature, and seal your documents for submission. Be prepared to answer a few questions and ensure all your details are correct.
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 usually two separate fees: the application fee (payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State’) and an execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility). The application fee typically requires a check or money order, while the execution fee can often be paid with cash, check, or debit/credit card. Confirm acceptable payment methods with the Post Office when you call. Once submitted, you’ll receive a receipt. You can then use the application number on the travel.state.gov website to track your passport’s processing status. Processing times vary, so check the website for current estimates, and consider expedited services if you have upcoming travel plans.
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 BROOKHAVEN
Make sure you have everything needed for BROOKHAVEN facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ BROOKHAVEN 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 BROOKHAVEN’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no BROOKHAVEN facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from BROOKHAVEN.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in BROOKHAVEN. 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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