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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First, identify whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal. For first-time applicants, you’ll need to apply in person at the local post office or county clerk’s office. Renewals can sometimes be completed by mail. Have your birth certificate, valid photo ID, and social security number ready. For those under 16, both parents must typically be present during the application process.
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.
Collect all necessary documents before your application. This includes a certified birth certificate, valid government-issued photo ID, passport photos taken within the last six months, and proof of citizenship. Friend residents can get passport photos at local pharmacies or the county clerk’s office. Ensure all documents are current and match your legal name exactly.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Fill out form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Be precise and use black ink. Double-check all information to prevent delays. The Friend community center sometimes offers assistance in reviewing applications to ensure accuracy. Pro tip: Use a black pen and write clearly to avoid potential processing issues.
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.
Budget for passport fees, which vary based on age and passport type. Bring a check or money order payable to ‘U.S. Department of State’. Cash is typically not accepted. Consider expedited services if you have upcoming travel. The local Friend bank can help you prepare the correct payment method for your specific passport needs.
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.
Visit the Saline County Clerk’s office or designated passport acceptance facility. Bring all original documents—no photocopies. An official will review your application, verify your identity, and witness your signature. Expect to spend about 30-45 minutes completing the process. Friendly staff can answer any last-minute questions you might have.
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.
After submission, track your passport online using the provided tracking number. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service runs 3-5 weeks. Once received, immediately check all information for accuracy. Store your new passport in a safe, secure location and make a photocopy for emergency purposes.
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 Friend
Make sure you have everything needed for Friend facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Friend 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 Friend’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 Friend facility visit needed. But mailing takes + days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Friend.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Friend. 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 Friend.
Honest comparison to help Friend 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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