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Ready to explore beyond the beautiful shores of Lake Murray or the charming streets of Lexington? Getting your passport is the first exciting step! While it might seem like a bit of paperwork, we’ve broken down the process into easy-to-follow steps, with a few local tips to make it a breeze for residents right here in Lexington, SC.
Before anything else, determine if you’re applying for your very first U.S. passport or renewing an existing one. This distinction is crucial because it dictates which application form you’ll need and how you’ll submit it. If you’ve never had a passport, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll generally use Form DS-11. For those simply renewing an adult passport that’s still valid or expired within the last 5 years, Form DS-82 is your go-to. Don’t worry if it sounds complex; the forms themselves will guide you once you know your status.
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 vital documents! For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship – this means your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Alongside that, bring a valid government-issued ID, like your South Carolina driver’s license. If your name has changed, official documentation (marriage certificate, court order) is also necessary. Remember, for the DS-11 application, you’ll need the *original* documents, not just copies. They’ll be returned to you, but be prepared to present them in person.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Whether you’re tackling Form DS-11 or DS-82, precision is key. You can find these forms online at the U.S. Department of State website. Print them out and fill them in using black ink. Take your time, ensuring all information matches your supporting documents exactly. Here’s a critical tip for DS-11 applicants: *DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION FORM* until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature, so resist the urge to sign it prematurely. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign it 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 isn’t just any selfie; it has very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, white background, taken within the last six months, a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, and no glasses. Luckily, several places around Lexington can help you get this right. Many CVS and Walgreens locations, such as the CVS on Sunset Boulevard or the Walgreens on Columbia Avenue, offer passport photo services. Some local UPS stores might also provide this. It’s often quicker and more reliable to have it professionally taken to avoid rejection due to incorrect specifications.
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.
If you’re applying for a new passport (DS-11), you can’t just mail it in; you need to present it in person at a passport acceptance facility. The most common acceptance facilities in and around Lexington are U.S. Post Offices. The United States Post Office at 123 E Main St, Lexington, SC, is a primary location that handles passport services. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to schedule an appointment, as walk-ins are often not accommodated. Confirm their operating hours and passport service availability before you head out. Renewal applications (DS-82) are typically mailed directly to the Department of State.
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.
On your appointment day for new applications, bring everything: your completed (but unsigned!) DS-11 form, your original proof of citizenship, your valid ID, and your passport photo. Be prepared for two separate fees: one for the passport application itself, payable to the U.S. Department of State (check or money order often required), and an execution fee for the acceptance facility, which can usually be paid via check, money order, or sometimes credit/debit card. The acceptance agent will review your documents, witness your signature, and officially send off your application. For renewals, simply mail your DS-82, old passport, photo, and payment directly.
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 lexington
Make sure you have everything needed for lexington facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ lexington 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 lexington’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Lexington County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no lexington facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from lexington.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in lexington. 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.
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