Before anything else, figure out your passport status. Have you never held a U.S. passport before, or is your old one expired, lost, or significantly damaged? If so, you’re a first-time applicant or fall under similar criteria, requiring the DS-11 form. If you’re simply updating an unexpired or recently expired (within 5 years) passport that’s still in your possession and you haven’t changed your name, the DS-82 renewal form is your friend. Understanding this distinction early on shapes every subsequent step. Check the State Department’s guidelines to confirm your category, especially for minors or name changes, as specific rules apply.

This stage is all about gathering concrete evidence of your identity and U.S. citizenship. You’ll need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a previous undamaged passport, or naturalization certificate as proof of citizenship. For identification, bring your valid Nevada driver’s license or state ID. If you’re using a driver’s license from out of state, you might need a secondary ID. Make sure all documents are current and presentable. Remember, you’ll need the originals for verification, not just photocopies. Organize these vital papers carefully; losing them mid-process can cause significant delays.

Now it’s time to complete the actual paperwork. Head to the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to find the correct form – either DS-11 (for first-timers or specific circumstances) or DS-82 (for renewals). You can fill it out online and print it, which often helps with legibility, or print a blank copy and complete it by hand with black ink. Pay close attention to detail and ensure all information is accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. Critical tip for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT sign the form until instructed by the acceptance agent when you submit everything.

Your passport picture needs to meet very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, full-face view directly facing the camera, white or off-white background, no glasses, and taken within the last six months. Don’t try to get creative here; follow the rules! Many places in Henderson offer passport photo services that guarantee compliance. Consider popping into local CVS, Walgreens, UPS Stores, or even FedEx Office locations. They’re accustomed to these specs and can usually provide a compliant photo quickly. Avoid selfies or casual snapshots; a professional photo prevents submission headaches.

If you’re using the DS-11 form (first-time applicants, minors, or specific situations), you must appear in person before a passport acceptance agent. Fortunately, Henderson has several convenient locations. Local Post Offices, like the one on Warm Springs Rd or Green Valley Pkwy, and sometimes city libraries, serve as official acceptance facilities. Crucially, call ahead to inquire about their operating hours for passport services and if an appointment is necessary. Many facilities require appointments, so don’t just show up hoping for the best. Bring all your original documents, the completed unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo.

At your chosen Henderson acceptance facility, the agent will verify your identity, witness your signature (for DS-11 forms), and collect all your materials. Be prepared for two separate fees: the passport application fee (payable to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order) and an execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility, which may accept credit cards, cash, or checks). Double-check the current fee schedule on the travel.state.gov website before you go. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number, allowing you to monitor your application’s progress online. Standard processing times vary, so consider expedited service if you’re on a tight schedule.