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Getting ready for an international adventure from Laurens, SC? Your first step is securing a passport, and it’s simpler than you might think! This friendly guide will walk you through each stage, making sure you have all your ducks in a row for a smooth application process right here in the Upstate. Let’s get you ready to explore the world!
Before anything else, clarify your passport situation. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if it was lost/stolen, you’ll be completing the DS-11 form for a *new* passport. This requires an in-person appearance. However, if you’ve got an undamaged, adult passport issued within the last 15 years, you’re likely eligible to renew by mail using the DS-82 form. Knowing which category you fall into right away streamlines the entire process, saving you time and hassle down the road. Double-check your old 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.
This is where you dig through important paperwork. For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship – think a certified birth certificate with a raised seal, a previous U.S. passport (even if expired), or a Certificate of Naturalization. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification like your South Carolina driver’s license. Bring the *originals* and *photocopies* of both sides for all documents. The acceptance agent will review them, and your originals will be mailed with your application, returning separately. Keep these safe!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now it’s time to fill out the appropriate form: DS-11 for new applicants or DS-82 for renewals. While you can print a blank form and fill it in by hand, the U.S. Department of State highly recommends completing it online at travel.state.gov. The online form generates a scannable barcode, reducing errors and speeding up processing. Just make sure to print it single-sided, *do not sign it* if you’re a new applicant (DS-11), as it must be signed in front of the acceptance agent. Accuracy is crucial – incorrect information can cause delays.
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 photo is a vital part of the application. It needs to be a specific size (2×2 inches), in color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No hats, no glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. Don’t try to take it yourself unless you’re confident in meeting all the strict requirements! In Laurens, you can easily get compliant passport photos taken at local spots like the CVS on East Main Street or Walgreens, typically for a small fee.
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.
For new passports (DS-11), you absolutely must submit your application in person. Your go-to spot in Laurens is typically the United States Post Office. A great choice is the Laurens Post Office located at 111 S Harper Street. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, it’s highly advisable to call ahead or use the online scheduler (if available) to book an appointment. This ensures an acceptance agent is available to process your application and witness your signature, preventing a wasted trip and saving you valuable time. Confirm their passport service hours!
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.
Before heading to the Laurens Post Office for your appointment, perform a meticulous final check. Ensure you have your unsigned DS-11 form, your original proof of citizenship and its photocopy, your original photo ID and its photocopy, your passport photo, and your payment. You’ll need two separate payments: one check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State for the application fee, and a separate, smaller execution fee payable to the Post Office. The acceptance agent will verify your documents, witness your signature, and mail your application off. Soon you’ll be ready for new adventures!
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 LAURENS
Make sure you have everything needed for LAURENS facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ LAURENS 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 LAURENS’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 LAURENS facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from LAURENS.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in LAURENS. 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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