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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What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in Grafton
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We’ll handle everything from your Grafton home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Grafton Residents
Based on verified reports from Grafton 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 Grafton times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Grafton, North Dakota
Let’s walk through Grafton’s passport process step by step.
1
Figure Out: Brand New Passport or Renewal?
First-time applicants in Grafton need more documentation than renewals. You’ll want your birth certificate, social security card, and valid photo ID. For renewals, the process is simpler – typically just requiring your previous passport and current identification. Our local courthouse staff can quickly help you determine your specific 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 Important Paperwork
Gather every single document meticulously. North Dakota residents know preparation prevents problems. You’ll need proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID, and passport photos that meet federal standards. Pro tip: The drugstore near downtown Grafton offers excellent passport photo services that match exact federal specifications.
💡 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
Complete Those Tricky Forms
Form DS-11 for first-time applicants requires careful completion. Take your time and use black ink. Cross-reference every detail. Our local postal workers and courthouse staff can review your form to ensure accuracy, preventing potential processing delays that could interrupt your travel plans.
💡 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
Capture Your Perfect Passport Portrait
Passport photos in Grafton are serious business. Avoid casual snapshots – these need professional quality. The CVS on Hill Avenue offers excellent photo services that meet strict federal guidelines. Wear neutral clothing, have a natural expression, and ensure the background is plain white or off-white.
💡 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 Your Passport Application
Head to the Walsh County Courthouse during business hours. Bring all original documents, completed forms, and payment. Our local staff are incredibly helpful and can answer last-minute questions. Expect the process to take approximately 4-6 weeks for standard processing, or expedite if you’re on a tight timeline.
💡 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
Pay and Track Your Application
Passport fees vary based on book or card type. First-time adult passports typically range $130-$165. Keep your receipt and tracking information. The courthouse can help you understand fee structures and provide guidance on tracking your application through the federal system.
💡 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 Grafton Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Grafton
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Grafton 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 Grafton:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Grafton 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 Grafton:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Grafton facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Grafton
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Grafton 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 Grafton
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 Grafton’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 Grafton facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Grafton.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Grafton. 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 Grafton Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Grafton.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Grafton residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Grafton 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 Grafton 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 Grafton
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.
Grafton offers passport acceptance services through the Walsh County Courthouse. You can submit new passport applications, renewals, and get assistance with documentation. While full passport processing occurs at federal centers, local staff can help verify documents and witness signatures.
Passport costs vary by type. Adult passport books are currently $130, passport cards $30, and a passport book/card combination is $160. Additional execution fees of $35 are charged locally. Grafton residents should budget for these fees and consider payment via check or money order at the courthouse.
Passport services in Grafton are typically limited to regular business hours at the Walsh County Courthouse, Monday through Friday. No weekend services are currently offered. Residents should plan to visit during standard government working hours and bring all required documentation.
While walk-ins are accepted, Grafton strongly recommends scheduling an appointment through the Walsh County Courthouse. This ensures a passport agent will be available to verify documents and reduces potential waiting times. Appointments can be scheduled by phone or in-person during business hours.
Grafton passport services accept primary identification like valid driver’s licenses, government-issued photo IDs, military cards, or previously issued passports. Secondary forms of ID might include birth certificates, social security cards, or school records. Each applicant’s documentation will be carefully reviewed by courthouse staff.
Minors under 16 require both parents/guardians present during passport application. For Grafton residents, this means both parents must accompany the child to the Walsh County Courthouse with proof of relationship, government-issued IDs, and the child’s birth certificate. Different rules apply for children 16-17.
Passport photos in Grafton must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, with a plain white or off-white background. The photo must show a full face, neutral expression, and be printed on quality photo paper. Some local pharmacies and the courthouse can provide compliant passport photos.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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