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 Lakewood
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📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Lakewood Residents
Based on verified reports from Lakewood applicants (last updated: )
35
Average Days
Routine Service
8 Weeks
Typical Range
90% of cases
3-6 Days
Days with Us
Average expedited
Note: Government states “” but actual Lakewood times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Lakewood, NJ
Shalom Lakewood! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually a pretty straightforward process. This guide is tailored specifically for Lakewood residents like you. You can apply for a passport through standard channels, like the local post office or County Clerk’s office. If you’re in a real rush, we can expedite the process for you. Expect the standard process to take several weeks, so plan ahead! We’ll walk you through each step, from figuring out which form you need to tracking your application. Let’s get started!
1
Is it New or Renewal Time?
First, figure out if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. Generally, if your passport is expired, was lost or stolen, issued before you were 16, or was issued more than 15 years ago, you need a new passport. For renewals, you’ll typically use a shorter form. Knowing this upfront saves you time and ensures you fill out the right application. Check the conditions listed on the State Department’s website to be sure, as some situations may be unique.
💡 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
Gather All Your Essential Documents
Start assembling your documents. This includes proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or previous passport), a valid photo ID (like your driver’s license or a government-issued ID), and a photocopy of both. Make sure your birth certificate is an original or certified copy; Lakewood Township doesn’t accept hospital certificates. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother when you visit the acceptance facility.
💡 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
Fill Out the Right Form – Carefully!
The most common forms are DS-11 (for new passports) and DS-82 (for renewals). Download the correct form from the State Department’s website (travel.state.gov) and fill it out completely and accurately. Pay close attention to the instructions. Errors can cause delays. You can fill it out online and print it, or download a blank form and fill it out by hand. If you prefer to fill it out by hand, use black ink and write legibly.
💡 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
Smile! It’s Photo Time
You’ll need a passport photo that meets specific requirements. It must be 2×2 inches, in color, with a white or off-white background, and taken within the last six months. Head to a local pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens on Route 9, or even Costco. Many local photographers in Lakewood also offer passport photo services. Be sure to confirm they know the specific passport photo requirements before they take the picture to prevent rejections.
💡 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 at a Local Facility…
Lakewood residents have a few options for submitting their applications. The Lakewood Post Office (several branches) and the Ocean County Clerk’s Office in Toms River are acceptance facilities. Call ahead to confirm their hours and appointment requirements, as they can vary. You’ll need to bring your completed application, documents, photo, and payment. Consider our expedited service for faster processing than standard routes.
💡 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 & Know What to Expect
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this number to monitor the status of your application online. Processing times can fluctuate, so be patient. If you applied through a standard facility, expect several weeks for processing. If using our expedited service, the timeline is shorter. Stay informed and be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak travel seasons. Check the State Department website for current processing times.
💡 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 Lakewood Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Lakewood
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Lakewood 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 Lakewood:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Lakewood 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 Lakewood:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Lakewood facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Lakewood
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Lakewood 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 Lakewood
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 Lakewood’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Ocean 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 Lakewood facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Lakewood.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Lakewood. 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 Lakewood, NJ Passport Services Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Lakewood, NJ Passport Services.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Lakewood residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood
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.
The application fee for a first-time adult U.S. passport book is $130. There’s also a $35 execution fee you pay to the acceptance facility, which in Lakewood might be the Ocean County Clerk’s Office or a local post office. So, the total cost is $165. This does not include the cost of the passport photo.
A U.S. passport book issued to an adult (16 years and older) is valid for 10 years. Make sure to check the expiration date regularly, especially if you’re planning international travel from Lakewood. It’s recommended to renew your passport at least nine months before it expires.
No, the U.S. passport card is *not* valid for international air travel. You can use it for land and sea border crossings between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. For flights from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), you *must* have a passport book.
Report it immediately to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They will help you replace your passport and provide guidance. Before your trip, make a copy of your passport and keep it separate from the original; this will expedite the replacement process. You can also store a digital copy securely.
No. Passports for children under the age of 16 are only valid for 5 years. This is because children’s appearances change more rapidly. When renewing a child’s passport in Lakewood, remember that both parents (or legal guardians) typically need to be present.
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for various countries. Check their website (travel.state.gov) before planning any international trip from Lakewood to see if there are any restrictions or warnings for your destination. These advisories can change quickly.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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