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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Let’s break down your Sardis passport journey step-by-step.
Determining whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal is crucial. First-time applicants will need to appear in person, while renewals offer more flexibility. For Sardis residents, our local facility can help you navigate these nuanced requirements without the typical bureaucratic headache.
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.
Original birth certificates, naturalization papers, or previous passports are your golden tickets. Pro tip for Sardis folks: the county recorder’s office can help authenticate documents if needed. Double-check everything before your appointment to avoid unnecessary delays.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
You’ll need a valid government ID, social security number, and recent photographs. Sardis residents can typically get passport photos at the local CVS or Walgreens. Make sure your photo meets strict federal guidelines – no smiling, no accessories, pure official documentation.
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.
Sardis has several great photo locations. The pharmacy near McIngvale Grocery offers professional passport photo services. Pro tip: wear a plain white or off-white shirt to ensure your photo meets federal standards. Avoid patterns or bright colors that might cause rejection.
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.
Form DS-11 for new passports requires precise filling. Take your time, use black ink, and print clearly. Our local processing center recommends doing a practice run at home. Small mistakes can derail your entire application, so attention to detail is key.
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.
Once everything is submitted at our local facility, you’ll receive tracking information. Processing times vary, but Sardis residents can typically expect 4-6 weeks for standard service. Expedited options are available for those with urgent travel plans. Stay patient and keep your documents secure.
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 Sardis
Make sure you have everything needed for Sardis facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Sardis 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 Sardis’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 Sardis facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Sardis.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Sardis. 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
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Sardis.
Honest comparison to help Sardis residents choose the right option
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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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