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Planning an adventure beyond the Palmetto State? Whether you’re dreaming of European cobblestones or Caribbean beaches, getting your passport is the first crucial step. For residents of Prosperity, SC, navigating the process is straightforward with a little preparation. Let’s get you ready for that international journey!
Start by figuring out if you’re a first-time applicant or simply renewing an existing passport. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll be filling out Form DS-11. This also applies if your old passport was lost, stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago. However, if you’re an adult whose passport is less than 15 years old and still in your possession, Form DS-82, the renewal form, is your go-to. Don’t overlook the specific requirements for children under 16, which always necessitate a DS-11 and the presence of both parents or legal guardians. Knowing this distinction early saves you a lot of time.
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.
Before you do anything else, round up your essential identification and citizenship documents. For U.S. citizenship, this usually means your original birth certificate (with a raised seal) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. If you were naturalized, bring your Certificate of Naturalization. For your primary ID, grab your valid South Carolina driver’s license or a state-issued identification card. Remember, you’ll need both the original document and a clear photocopy (front and back) for each. If your name has changed since your birth certificate or previous passport, bring original legal documentation like a marriage certificate or court order to prove it.
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 tackle the application form itself. Head to travel.state.gov and select either the DS-11 (for new applications, minors, or lost passports) or DS-82 (for adult renewals). You can fill out the form online, which is recommended, as it helps prevent errors. Print it neatly on single-sided pages. **Crucially, if you’re filling out a DS-11, DO NOT SIGN IT.** You must sign the DS-11 in front of the acceptance agent. For the DS-82, you can sign it before mailing. Double-check every field for accuracy, ensuring all information matches your supporting documents perfectly. Any discrepancies can cause delays in processing your application.
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 good passport photo is non-negotiable and has strict requirements. It needs to be a recent (within the last 6 months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or anything obstructing your face, and maintain a neutral expression or a slight, natural smile. You can’t just take a selfie! Head to a local spot equipped for passport photos. While Prosperity might not have a dedicated facility, you can easily find one nearby. Consider the Walmart Photo Center or CVS Pharmacy in Newberry (a short drive) or Walgreens in Chapin. Explain you need a U.S. passport photo to ensure they meet the specific regulations.
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 step varies based on your form. If you completed a DS-82 for renewal, you’ll mail your signed form, old passport, photo, and payment directly to the address specified on the application form. Use a secure, trackable mailing service. However, if you’re using Form DS-11 (new passport, minor, etc.), you *must* submit it in person. Your closest acceptance facility is likely the **US Post Office in Newberry, located at 2000 Main Street, Newberry, SC 29108**. Call ahead to confirm their passport acceptance hours and if an appointment is necessary. Bring all your original documents, photocopies, your unsigned DS-11, photo, and payment.
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.
The final piece of the puzzle is payment. Passport fees are set by the U.S. Department of State. You’ll typically pay a passport application fee (e.g., $130 for a book) and, if submitting a DS-11, an additional execution fee ($35) directly to the acceptance facility. For the application fee, a personal check or money order made out to “U.S. Department of State” is usually required. The execution fee, however, might be payable to the acceptance facility by check, money order, or sometimes even credit card (confirm with the Newberry Post Office). If you need your passport quickly, consider the expedited processing option for an additional charge.
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 PROSPERITY
Make sure you have everything needed for PROSPERITY facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ PROSPERITY 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 PROSPERITY’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 PROSPERITY facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from PROSPERITY.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in PROSPERITY. 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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