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Ready to explore beyond the Lowcountry? Obtaining a passport from Bluffton, SC, doesn’t have to be a confusing endeavor. This guide walks you through each step, ensuring you have all your ducks in a row for a smooth application process, from gathering documents to submitting your paperwork right here in town.
Before anything else, figure out if you’re a first-time applicant or simply refreshing an expired travel document. If you’ve never held a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if it’s lost/stolen, you’ll be completing Form DS-11 – the ‘Application for a U.S. Passport.’ However, if you’re an adult renewing a passport issued within the last 15 years, and it’s still in good condition, you’ll likely use Form DS-82, ‘Application for Passport Renewal.’ Understanding this distinction upfront streamlines your entire process and helps you gather the correct initial paperwork.
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.
Now comes the treasure hunt for your essential documents! For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, typically your original, certified birth certificate (not a hospital copy) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid photo ID, like your South Carolina driver’s license. Don’t forget copies of both sides of your citizenship proof and your ID. For renewals (DS-82), your old passport usually serves as both citizenship proof and identity, but you’ll still need photocopies. Gather these originals carefully, as they must be presented at your appointment.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
It’s time to get down to brass tacks with the actual forms. Head over to travel.state.gov to access and fill out either the DS-11 or DS-82 online. Using the online form filler is highly recommended as it helps prevent errors and generates a scannable barcode. Print the form single-sided, ensuring all information is correct and legible. A critical note for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT sign your application yet! You must sign it in front of the Acceptance Agent when you submit everything. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign and date the form before mailing.
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.
Your passport photo needs to meet specific requirements: a recent (within 6 months), color photo, 2×2 inches, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes, with a signed statement), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Fortunately, Bluffton offers several convenient spots. The UPS Store in Bluffton (e.g., in Bluffton Promenade) often provides passport photo services. You can also swing by local CVS or Walgreens pharmacies, as many of their photo centers are equipped to take compliant passport pictures, ensuring you meet all federal guidelines.
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.
The final step for new applicants is to submit your package in person. The primary acceptance facility in our area is the Bluffton Post Office, located at 1243 May River Road, Bluffton, SC 29910. It’s crucial to call ahead or check their website to schedule an appointment for passport services, as walk-ins are often not accommodated. Bring all your original documents, the completed unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photos, and your payment (detailed in the next step). The Acceptance Agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and seal your documents for mailing.
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.
Understanding the fees is vital. There are two main payments for new passports: the passport application fee and the execution fee. The passport fee itself must be paid by check or money order made payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ The execution (or acceptance) fee, which is a separate payment to the facility, can usually be paid by check, money order, or sometimes credit card, depending on the post office. Expect to pay these separately. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll just send the passport fee directly to the State Department with your application. Double-check current fees on travel.state.gov before your visit to avoid any surprises.
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 bluffton
Make sure you have everything needed for bluffton facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ bluffton 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 bluffton’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Beaufort County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no bluffton facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from bluffton.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in bluffton. 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
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