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Ready for an adventure beyond St. Matthews? Securing a passport is your ticket to global exploration, and it’s simpler than you might think. This guide walks you through each step, making the process smooth and tailored for folks right here in Calhoun County. Let’s get that travel document in your hands!
Before gathering anything, figure out what kind of passport mission you’re on. Are you applying for the first time, or is it time to update an expired or soon-to-expire passport? First-time adult applicants and minors will use the DS-11 form and must appear in person. If you’re renewing an eligible adult passport, you’ll likely use the DS-82 form and can often mail it in. Knowing which path you’re on dictates your next moves, saving you time and potential headaches. Double-check if your previous passport meets renewal criteria – generally, it needs to be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years when you were 16 or older.
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 step is all about proving who you are and where you came from. For a first-time application, you’ll absolutely need your original birth certificate (not a photocopy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. Alongside that, bring a valid photo ID like your South Carolina driver’s license – make sure it’s current. If your name has changed, don’t forget certified copies of marriage certificates or court orders. For renewals, your old passport is typically enough. Keep everything original and ready; acceptance agents will need to see the real deal, not just scans, especially for primary identification documents. Secure these vital records well in advance.
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 tackle the official paperwork! Head to the U.S. Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) to find and either fill out online or print the correct form (DS-11 for new applicants/minors, DS-82 for renewals). Fill it out completely and accurately. If you’re printing, use black ink and write legibly. For the DS-11, *do not sign it* until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They need to witness your signature. Taking your time here prevents snags later on, ensuring all your details match your identification perfectly. Any errors could 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.
A good passport photo is crucial – it’s often a common reason for application delays. You’ll need one recent (taken within the last six months), color photograph, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats, a neutral facial expression, and make sure your full face is visible. While St. Matthews itself might not have dedicated passport photo services, you can easily find them at CVS or Walgreens in nearby Orangeburg or even at a UPS Store in Columbia, just a short drive away. Avoid DIY photos unless you’re confident in meeting all the strict requirements.
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 your preparation pays off! For first-time applicants or minors, you’ll need to submit your DS-11 form and supporting documents in person. The good news for St. Matthews residents is that the **St. Matthews Post Office (114 W Bridge St, St Matthews, SC 29135)** is a certified passport acceptance facility. Call ahead to confirm their operating hours for passport services and if an appointment is necessary. Bring all your original documents, your photo, and your payment (check or money order often required for the application fee, credit cards usually for the execution fee). The agent will review everything, witness your signature (for DS-11), and seal your application for mailing.
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.
Once your application is submitted, the waiting game begins. You can track the status of your passport application online at travel.state.gov using the application locator number provided at the post office. Standard processing times can vary, so check the website for current estimates – they’re often updated. If you have immediate travel plans, consider paying extra for expedited service and two-way express mail to speed things up considerably. Keep an eye on your mailbox for your new passport and remember, your supporting documents (like your birth certificate) will be mailed back to you separately, often after your passport arrives.
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 ST MATTHEWS
Make sure you have everything needed for ST MATTHEWS facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ ST MATTHEWS 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 ST MATTHEWS’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 ST MATTHEWS facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from ST MATTHEWS.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in ST MATTHEWS. 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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