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 to explore beyond the beautiful Upstate? Getting your passport in Taylors, SC, is a straightforward journey if you know the steps. This guide will walk you through everything, from gathering your documents to submitting your application, with local tips to make the process smooth and stress-free for your next adventure!
Your initial task is figuring out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an old one. If you’ve never held a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll need the DS-11 form. This also applies if your prior passport was lost, stolen, or issued more than 15 years ago. On the flip side, if you’re over 16, your old passport is still in good condition, and it was issued within the last 15 years, the DS-82 renewal form is your friend. Parents applying for a minor (under 16) will always use the DS-11 and require both parents’ presence or specific consent forms.
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.
Next up, it’s time to play detective and gather your essential documentation. For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate (not a copy!), a previous undamaged passport, or a certificate of naturalization. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo ID like your South Carolina driver’s license. Don’t forget to bring a photocopy (front and back) of your ID and a photocopy of your citizenship document. Renewals (DS-82) typically only require your old passport and any name change documents, if applicable.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your documents in hand, it’s time to tackle the application form itself. You can find both the DS-11 and DS-82 forms online at the U.S. Department of State website. Print it out, but take your time filling in every section accurately and legibly. For the DS-11 form, the most critical piece of advice is: DO NOT SIGN IT! You must sign the DS-11 in front of a passport acceptance agent. The DS-82, however, can be signed and mailed directly. Double-check all spellings, dates, and addresses to avoid any processing 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 crucial element for your passport is a compliant photo. This isn’t just any selfie! Your picture must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. You need a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, with both eyes open. No glasses, hats, or anything that obstructs your face is allowed. Many local places in Taylors and nearby Greenville, like CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store on Wade Hampton Blvd, offer passport photo services that meet these specific requirements, ensuring your picture is just right.
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.
Now for the big moment: submitting everything! For new passport applications (DS-11), you must apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. The Taylors Post Office, located at 3043 Wade Hampton Blvd, is a convenient local option. Other nearby facilities include the Greenville Post Office. You’ll need to bring all your documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photo, and your payment. It’s often a good idea to call ahead to see if an appointment is needed. Remember, the acceptance agent will witness your signature on the DS-11.
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 you leave the acceptance facility, you’ll need to pay the application fees. There’s a passport book fee and a separate execution fee for DS-11 applications. You can also opt for a passport card, which is less expensive and valid for land and sea travel to certain destinations. You might also consider expedited processing if you have an urgent trip planned, which incurs an additional charge. Once everything is submitted and paid, it’s a waiting game. You can track your application status online, but typical processing times can vary. Plan well in advance of your travel dates!
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 TAYLORS
Make sure you have everything needed for TAYLORS facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ TAYLORS 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 TAYLORS’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 TAYLORS facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from TAYLORS.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in TAYLORS. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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