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Hey Eastover neighbors! Planning an exciting trip abroad? Getting your passport might seem like navigating a labyrinth, but it’s simpler than you think. We’ve mapped out a clear, friendly path just for you. Follow these six steps, and you’ll be ready to explore the world in no time, moving from our lovely community to global adventures!
Before anything else, figure out your application type. If you’re applying for your very first U.S. passport, if your old passport is expired for more than 15 years, or if you’re getting one for a child under 16, you’ll be using Form DS-11. This requires an in-person appearance. However, if you’re simply refreshing a passport issued within the last 15 years and you still have it, you’ll use Form DS-82 for a renewal by mail. Understanding this initial distinction is crucial, as it dictates the entire process and the forms you’ll need to prepare. Take a moment to check your existing passport’s issue date!
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, let’s hunt down those critical documents! For first-time applicants, your original birth certificate (or a certified copy) or your previous naturalization certificate is paramount as proof of U.S. citizenship. You’ll also need a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID, like your South Carolina driver’s license, as proof of identity. Remember, you’ll need to provide both the originals AND a photocopy (front and back) of each document. For renewals, your existing passport serves as both proof of citizenship and identity. Secure these items carefully; they are your golden tickets!
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 business with the application form itself. You can find and fill out the appropriate form (DS-11 or DS-82) online at the U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). Print it clearly, using black ink only. Pay close attention to every detail; mistakes can cause delays. Here’s a critical Eastover insider tip: if you’re filling out Form DS-11, **DO NOT SIGN IT** until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature. For Form DS-82 renewals, you can sign it before mailing. Double-check all dates and spellings to match your identification exactly.
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.
A crucial part of your application is a compliant passport photo. This isn’t just any selfie! It needs to be a recent (within 6 months) color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. While Eastover itself doesn’t have many dedicated photo studios, you can easily get these done with a short drive. Head to a Walgreens or CVS in nearby Columbia or Sumter; they typically offer passport photo services that meet the strict government requirements. Call ahead to confirm their services and hours!
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.
This is where the rubber meets the road, especially for first-time applicants using Form DS-11! You, and any minor children applying, must appear in person. For Eastover residents, the closest passport acceptance facility is often the **U.S. Post Office at 11500 Garners Ferry Rd in Hopkins, SC 29061**. Another excellent option is the **Richland Library Main Branch at 1431 Assembly St, Columbia, SC 29201**, though it’s a bit further. Always call ahead to the facility to confirm their operating hours for passport services and if an appointment is needed. Bring all your original documents, photocopies, your unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo.
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.
You’ll have two separate fees to manage: the application fee (payable to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order) and the execution fee (payable to the acceptance facility, often by check, money order, or sometimes credit card). Make sure you understand the current fee structure – check travel.state.gov. Once submitted, you can track the status of your application online using the locator number provided. Standard processing times vary, but if you’re in a hurry for an international adventure, consider paying extra for expedited service and even 1-2 day delivery. Patience is key, but knowing you can monitor its progress brings peace of mind!
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 EASTOVER
Make sure you have everything needed for EASTOVER facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ EASTOVER 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 EASTOVER’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 EASTOVER facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from EASTOVER.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in EASTOVER. 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
Honest comparison to help EASTOVER residents choose the right option
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