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, North Carolina
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What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in Carthage
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AI Passport Assistant for Carthage
Ask me anything about getting your passport in Carthage — instant expert answers
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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, North Carolina
Let’s navigate your passport journey together, Carthage-style.
1
Decode Your Passport Path
Determine whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal. First-timers will need to appear in person at our local processing center, typically near the Historic Carthage Courthouse. Renewals offer more flexibility but still require careful documentation preparation. Consider your travel timeline and specific international destination requirements.
💡 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 Documentation
Gather critical documents: valid government-issued photo ID, birth certificate, and social security card. Pro Carthage tip – make copies at the local library or pharmacy to ensure everything is perfectly prepared. Double-check expiration dates and ensure all paperwork matches your current legal name exactly.
💡 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
Photograph Your Travel Persona
Capture a passport photo that meets strict federal guidelines. Local spots like CVS or Walgreens in Carthage offer professional photo services. Ensure a neutral expression, plain background, and no accessories that might obscure your facial features. Recent photos within the last six months are mandatory.
💡 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
Complete the Passport Puzzle
Fill out Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Use black ink, write clearly, and avoid mistakes that could delay processing. Consider completing initial drafts at The Villager Cafe, where a calm atmosphere can help you focus on details. Verify every single entry before submission.
💡 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 with Confidence
Visit our local processing center, typically located near county administrative offices. Bring all original documents, completed forms, and payment. Expect to pay via cash, credit card, or personal check. Processing times vary, so discuss anticipated turnaround with local staff who understand Carthage’s unique workflow.
💡 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 Your Travel Ticket
After submission, monitor your application status online. Most Carthage residents receive passports within 4-6 weeks for routine processing. Expedited services are available for additional fees. Keep all confirmation numbers and stay patient – your international adventure is just around the corner.
💡 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.
For adults (16 and older), a new passport book costs $130 for the application fee plus $35 execution fee. For children under 16, the fees are $80 application fee plus $35 execution fee. These rates are standard nationwide and can be paid by check or money order at the Moore County Register of Deeds office.
The primary passport acceptance facility in Carthage is the Moore County Register of Deeds, located at 206 N. Kansas Avenue. They offer passport services during regular business hours and require appointments. Walk-ins are occasionally accommodated but strongly discouraged.
The Moore County Register of Deeds processes passport applications Monday through Friday, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment to ensure smooth processing and minimize wait times.
Yes, appointments are strongly recommended in Carthage. The Register of Deeds prefers scheduled appointments to manage workflow and ensure adequate time for document verification. You can schedule by calling their main office or booking online through the county’s website.
In Carthage, you can apply for first-time passports, passport renewals, child passports, and passport cards. The Register of Deeds can help with standard processing and provide guidance on documentation requirements for each passport type.
Children under 16 require both parents or legal guardians present during application, with proof of relationship. Passports for minors are valid for 5 years, compared to 10 years for adults. Both parents must provide consent, or documentation explaining sole guardianship must be presented.
Several local businesses offer passport photo services, including some pharmacies and the Register of Deeds. Walmart in nearby Sanford also provides passport photos. Ensure photos meet current federal guidelines: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last 6 months.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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