Your first mission: figure out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply refreshing an old one. If this is your debut passport, or your previous one is super old (expired over 15 years ago), you’ll be tackling Form DS-11. If you’re under 16, it’s also a DS-11 situation with specific parent/guardian requirements. However, if you’re just renewing a passport issued within the last 15 years, and you were at least 16 when it was issued, you’ll opt for the simpler Form DS-82. Knowing this upfront saves a lot of hassle!

Time to play detective and hunt down your core identification documents. For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, typically your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID, like your Montana driver’s license. Make sure these documents are current and in good shape. For renewals (DS-82), your old passport usually serves as both citizenship and ID proof. Remember, originals are key; they’ll be mailed with your application and returned to you later.

Now for the actual form! You can grab Form DS-11 (new passport) or DS-82 (renewal) directly from the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). Print it out, fill in all sections clearly using black ink, and double-check every detail for accuracy. This isn’t the time for typos! Crucially, if you’re filling out a DS-11, **DO NOT SIGN IT** yet. Your signature must be witnessed by an acceptance agent when you submit your application in person. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign it before mailing.

Your passport photo has very specific rules, so don’t just use a selfie! It needs to be a recent (within 6 months), color photo, 2×2 inches, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. You can easily get these done around Great Falls. Try the UPS Store on 10th Ave S, Walgreens, or CVS. They usually know the exact specifications and can print them on the spot, ensuring compliance before you even leave the store.

Passport fees require a specific payment method. The passport application fee itself must be paid by check or money order, made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ They don’t accept cash or credit cards for the application fee. Additionally, if you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11), there’s a separate ‘execution fee’ of $35. This fee is usually paid directly to the acceptance facility (like the Post Office) and might be payable by credit card, check, or money order, depending on their specific rules. Always verify the current fee amounts on the State Department’s website.

The final step! If you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11), you **must** submit your application in person to an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Great Falls, excellent options include the U.S. Post Office at 1201 1st Ave S or the Cascade County Clerk & Recorder’s Office at 325 2nd Ave N. It’s highly recommended to call ahead or check their websites for current hours and if an appointment is needed. For DS-82 renewals, you’ll simply mail your application packet directly to the address listed on the form. Double-check everything before sending it off!