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 Carthage, Mississippi
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 Carthage
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 Carthage
Ask me anything about getting your passport in Carthage — instant expert answers
✓
Guaranteed to Make Your Trip
We’ll handle everything from your Carthage home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Carthage Residents
Based on verified reports from Carthage 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 Carthage times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Carthage, Mississippi
Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality?
1
Figure Out: New Adventure or Passport Refresh?
Determining whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal is crucial. First-time applicants will need to appear in person at our local processing center, while renewals offer more flexibility. Consider your travel timeline and the specific requirements that match your situation.
💡 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 Proof of Citizenship
Gather your original birth certificate, previous passport, or naturalization documents. In Carthage, we recommend double-checking everything before your appointment. The Leake County Courthouse staff can often provide guidance on acceptable documentation.
💡 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
Complete the Passport Puzzle
Forms DS-11 or DS-82 will be your primary tools. Fill them out meticulously, using black ink and avoiding any stray marks. Our local post office and city hall have helpful staff who can answer questions about proper form completion.
💡 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
Capture Your Official Portrait
Passport photos in Carthage have specific requirements. The local pharmacy and some downtown studios offer professional services that meet federal standards. Pro tip: avoid wearing glasses or hats, and ensure a neutral facial expression that truly represents you.
💡 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 Your Passport Application
Visit the designated local facility with all your documents. The Carthage City Hall or local post office can process your application. Bring acceptable payment methods and be prepared for potential wait times during peak travel seasons.
💡 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
Track and Celebrate
After submission, you can track your passport status online. Most Carthage residents receive their passport within 6-8 weeks for routine processing. Expedited services are available for an additional fee if your travel is imminent.
💡 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 Carthage Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Carthage
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Carthage 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 Carthage:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Carthage 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 Carthage:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Carthage facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Carthage
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Carthage 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 Carthage
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 Carthage’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 Carthage facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Carthage.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Carthage. 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 Carthage Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Carthage.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Carthage residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Carthage 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 Carthage 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 Carthage
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.
In Carthage, passport services are typically handled through the local county clerk’s office or designated acceptance facilities. While Carthage is a smaller municipality, residents can submit passport applications, get photos taken, and receive processing assistance at approved local government locations.
Passport costs vary by type. A standard adult passport book is currently $130 for the application fee, plus a $35 execution fee. For children under 16, fees are lower at $80 plus the $35 execution fee. These rates are consistent nationwide, including in Carthage, Mississippi.
U.S. citizens born or naturalized in Carthage or surrounding areas can apply for passports. This includes adults, children, first-time applicants, and those renewing expired documents. Proof of citizenship and valid identification are required for all applicants.
While walk-ins are sometimes accepted, it’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment at the Carthage passport acceptance facility. This ensures faster service, reduces waiting times, and guarantees all necessary staff will be available to process your application.
For Carthage residents, you’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, plus proof of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate. If you don’t have a current photo ID, alternative documentation can be used with additional verification steps.
Yes, passport requirements differ by age. Adults 16 and older receive valid 10-year passports, while children under 16 receive 5-year passports. Minors must have parental consent and both parents/guardians present during the application process in Carthage.
Absolutely. Your place of birth doesn’t prevent passport issuance. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can apply in Carthage as long as you meet standard citizenship requirements and have appropriate documentation proving your status.
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 →