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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Let’s walk through your passport journey, Melrose style.
First things first: determine whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal. In Melrose, we’re all about clarity. If you’re a first-timer, you’ll need to appear in person at our local processing center. Renewals? Sometimes you can mail those in, saving you a trip into town.
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.
Gather your paperwork like you’re preparing for the county fair’s most organized exhibit. You’ll want your birth certificate (original or certified copy), valid government ID, and social security number. Pro tip: make copies beforehand to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
DS-11 for new passports, DS-82 for renewals. Fill these out with the precision of a farmer plotting their crop rows. Use black ink, print clearly, and double-check every single line. Mistakes here can delay your travel dreams.
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.
Get your photo at the Melrose Community Center. They know exactly what the government wants – a clear, recent shot that looks like the real you. No weird angles, neutral expression, and make sure your head is centered just right.
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.
Head to the Marion County clerk’s office with your completed application. They’ve processed hundreds of these, so they’ll guide you smoothly. Processing times vary, but typically you’re looking at 4-6 weeks for routine service, 2-3 weeks for expedited.
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.
Passport fees aren’t small change, but they’re your ticket to the world. Bring a check or money order – cash and credit cards aren’t always accepted. Prices vary based on book or card, adult or child, so confirm current rates before your visit.
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 Melrose
Make sure you have everything needed for Melrose facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Melrose 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 Melrose’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 Melrose facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Melrose.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Melrose. 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 Melrose.
Honest comparison to help Melrose 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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