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Getting your passport sorted while juggling classes at Ole Miss might seem like a complex task, but it’s totally achievable! Whether you’re dreaming of a spring break adventure abroad, planning a study-abroad semester, or just preparing for future travels, having your valid travel document is the first crucial step. Let’s walk through the process together, keeping things straightforward and local for you right here in Oxford.
Before anything else, you need to determine your passport status. Are you applying for your very first passport as an adult (or a minor)? Did your previous passport expire more than five years ago, or was it lost or stolen? If any of these apply, you’ll generally use Form DS-11. However, if your most recent passport is still valid or expired less than five years ago, and you meet other renewal criteria, you’ll likely opt for the simpler Form DS-82. Understanding this initial distinction saves you significant time and ensures you gather the correct documents for your particular situation. Many students at Ole Miss will find themselves completing the DS-11 for their inaugural adult passport, so be ready for that in-person requirement!
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.
Now comes the treasure hunt for your foundational documents! For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo ID, like your Mississippi driver’s license or state ID card. Remember, these must be originals, not photocopies. If your birth certificate is stored back home, start coordinating with your family early to have it securely mailed to you. Don’t wait until the last minute – express shipping can add unexpected costs and stress to your process!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
It’s time to tackle the official paperwork. Head over to the Department of State’s website to find and complete either Form DS-11 (for new applicants) or Form DS-82 (for renewals). You can fill it out online and then print it, which is often easier to ensure legibility and accuracy. For DS-11 applicants, this is incredibly important: DO NOT sign the form until you are instructed to do so by an authorized acceptance agent. They need to witness your signature in person. If you’re renewing with DS-82, you can sign it before mailing. Make sure all information matches your supporting documents exactly to avoid delays.
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 isn’t just any selfie – it has specific requirements. It needs to be a recent (within the last six months) color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed, and you need a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile. Trying to take it yourself often leads to issues. The good news is, getting a compliant photo in Oxford is easy! Local pharmacies like Walgreens (1703 University Ave) or CVS (1910 Jackson Ave W) offer passport photo services that guarantee your picture meets all federal guidelines, saving you from potential rejections.
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.
Gather all your completed pieces: your signed (or unsigned DS-11) application form, your proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or old passport), your valid photo ID, and your fresh passport photo. Now for the fees. You’ll generally have two separate payments: one for the U.S. Department of State (for the passport itself) and another for the acceptance facility (an execution fee). Check the State Department’s website for current fee schedules. For the State Department fee, a personal check or money order is usually preferred. The acceptance facility may accept checks, money orders, or sometimes even credit cards, but it’s always wise to call ahead and confirm their payment methods.
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.
For new applications (DS-11), you must submit everything in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Fortunately, Oxford has a convenient option: the Oxford Post Office, located at 1032 N Lamar Blvd. It’s highly recommended to call them ahead of time (662-234-3161) to inquire about appointment availability or specific walk-in hours for passport services, as these can vary. Bring all your original documents, including your unsigned DS-11 form. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll typically mail your application directly to the Department of State, but always double-check the instructions on the form itself for the correct mailing address. Good luck, and happy travels!
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 UNIVERSITY
Make sure you have everything needed for UNIVERSITY facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ UNIVERSITY 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 UNIVERSITY’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 UNIVERSITY facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from UNIVERSITY.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in UNIVERSITY. 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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