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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Ready for your next great adventure, whether it’s exploring faraway lands or just visiting family across borders? Getting your U.S. passport from Lyman, SC, is simpler than you might think. This guide walks you through each step, making sure you have all your ducks in a row for a smooth process. Let’s get that passport in your hand!
Before diving into paperwork, figure out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an old one. If this is your first passport ever, you’ll use Form DS-11. This also applies if your previous passport was issued when you were under 16, was lost/stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago. If you’re over 16, your passport is less than 15 years old, and you still have it, then DS-82 is your friend for a mail-in renewal. For children under 16, both parents (or legal guardians) must typically apply in person with the child using Form DS-11, so gather their birth certificates and identification too.
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 first-time application (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship – typically your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid form of photo identification, like your South Carolina driver’s license. Don’t forget to make clear, legible photocopies of *both* sides of your citizenship evidence and your ID. These copies will be submitted along with your originals. For renewals (DS-82), your most recent passport is usually sufficient as proof of identity and citizenship. Double-check all expiration dates to ensure everything is current!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
A compliant passport photo is non-negotiable, and it needs to be just right. This isn’t the time for selfies! The photo must be 2×2 inches, in color, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats (unless for religious reasons, with a signed statement), or uniforms. Your expression should be neutral or a natural, subtle smile. While there isn’t a dedicated photo studio in Lyman offering instant passport photos, you can easily get this done at pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens in nearby Duncan or Spartanburg. Many UPS Stores in the Spartanburg/Greenville area also offer this service, ensuring it meets all federal requirements.
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.
Filling out the correct form accurately is crucial. You can access Form DS-11 (for new applications) or DS-82 (for renewals) directly from the U.S. Department of State website. It’s often easiest to fill it out online and then print it, as this helps prevent common errors. Make sure all information matches your supporting documents exactly. For DS-11 applicants, *do not* sign the form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign and date the form before mailing. Always review everything twice for typos or missing information before moving on to the next step.
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 first-time applicants (DS-11) and all minor applicants, you *must* submit your application in person at an official passport acceptance facility. Fortunately for Lyman residents, several U.S. Post Office locations nearby serve this purpose. The **Duncan Post Office (2539 E Main St, Duncan, SC 29334)** is very convenient. You could also visit the **Spartanburg Main Post Office (9507 Asheville Hwy, Spartanburg, SC 29306)**. Call ahead to confirm their passport acceptance hours and if an appointment is needed. Remember to bring all your original documents, photocopies, your photo, the unsigned DS-11 form, and your payment. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll mail your completed form, old passport, photo, and payment directly to the address on the form.
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 need to pay two separate fees for a new passport: the application fee (to the U.S. Department of State) and an execution fee (to the acceptance facility). Checks or money orders are usually required for the application fee, while the execution fee can often be paid via money order or sometimes credit card at the facility. Expect standard processing times to vary, so it’s always wise to apply well in advance of your travel dates. The State Department’s website provides current estimated processing times for both routine and expedited services. After submission, you’ll receive tracking information so you can monitor your application’s journey online until your new passport arrives in your mailbox.
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 LYMAN
Make sure you have everything needed for LYMAN facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ LYMAN 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 LYMAN’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 LYMAN facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from LYMAN.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in LYMAN. 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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