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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Getting your first passport, or renewing an old one, might seem like a maze, but it’s straightforward, especially right here in McComb, Mississippi. We’ve broken down the entire process into six easy, actionable steps. Follow along, and you’ll be ready for your global adventures sooner than you think!
Before you do anything else, pause and clarify your situation. Are you a first-time applicant ready for global adventures, or simply refreshing an old, expired travel companion? This crucial distinction dictates whether you’ll complete Form DS-11 (new or lost) or DS-82 (renewal). Also, think about your travel style: Do you need a passport book for international flights, or perhaps just a passport card for easier land/sea border crossings to places like Canada or Mexico? Understanding these choices early on makes the rest of the journey much smoother.
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 proving who you are and where you come from. You’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship—usually your birth certificate, a previous undamaged passport, or naturalization certificate. Alongside that, bring your valid government-issued photo identification, like your Mississippi driver’s license. Don’t forget copies of *both* sides of your ID and the citizenship document! The acceptance facility will verify the originals and keep the copies. Having everything organized prevents frustrating setbacks here in McComb.
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 complete the actual passport application form. For new applicants, this is typically the DS-11. For renewals, it’s the DS-82. While you can print a blank form and fill it out by hand, the Department of State highly recommends filling it out online at travel.state.gov. It’s cleaner, prompts you for required information, and generates a scannable barcode. Print it single-sided, but *do not sign it*! You’ll sign it in front of the acceptance agent at your appointment right here in McComb.
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 needs to meet very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, plain white background, no glasses, and a neutral facial expression. Finding a reliable spot for this in McComb is easy. Many local pharmacies, like Walgreens or CVS on Delaware Avenue, offer passport photo services that are typically compliant. Just walk in, tell them it’s for a passport, and they’ll handle the rest. Make sure to double-check the image for shadows or glare before you leave; tiny details matter!
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.
You can’t just mail in your DS-11 application; it needs to be submitted in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Fortunately, McComb has a convenient option: the **United States Post Office at 100 South Broadway Street**. It’s always a good idea to call ahead during business hours (601-684-1184) to confirm their passport service hours and if an appointment is needed. When you go, bring all your documents, your unsigned form, your photo, and your payment. The acceptance agent will witness your signature.
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 two main fees: one for the passport itself, paid to the ‘U.S. Department of State’ (check or money order usually), and a separate execution fee (currently $35) paid to the acceptance facility (often cash, check, or credit card). Be prepared for both! After your appointment, your application heads to a processing center. Standard processing can take several weeks, but expedited options are available for an extra cost. You can track its status online. Soon, you’ll have that passport in hand, ready for your next adventure beyond McComb!
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 MCCOMB
Make sure you have everything needed for MCCOMB facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ MCCOMB 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 MCCOMB’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 MCCOMB facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from MCCOMB.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in MCCOMB. 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.
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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