Expert expedited service from $147 — Processing in as fast as 3 days with zero errors guaranteed
Ask me anything about getting your passport in WHITMIRE — instant expert answers
We’ll handle everything from your WHITMIRE home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
Based on verified reports from WHITMIRE applicants (last updated: )
Getting your first passport, or renewing an old one, might feel like a big hurdle, especially living right here in Whitmire. But don’t you worry! We’ve broken down the whole process into easy-to-follow steps, with local tips to make your journey to international travel smooth and straightforward. Let’s get you ready for that adventure!
Before anything else, figure out if you’re applying for your very first passport, renewing an expired one, or getting a passport for a child under 16. This crucial decision dictates which form you’ll complete and whether you need to appear in person. If it’s your first time or for a minor, you’ll tackle the DS-11 application. Renewals for adults use the simpler DS-82 form, often handled by mail. Knowing this upfront will save you time and potential headaches down the line. Take a moment to check your old passport’s expiration date or confirm if this is truly your inaugural application before moving forward. It’s a foundational step for your international journey!
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.
Gathering your necessary documents is paramount. For first-timers or minors, you’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued identification document, like your South Carolina driver’s license, along with a photocopy of both the front and back of that ID. If you’re renewing, your old passport usually suffices. Ensure all names match across documents. If your birth certificate is missing, contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) to request a certified copy well in advance, as this can take some time to arrive in Whitmire.
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 complete the actual passport application. For a new passport or a child’s passport, you’ll fill out Form DS-11. If you’re an adult renewing an old passport, Form DS-82 is your go-to. Head over to the U.S. Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) to fill out the form online. This helps ensure accuracy and neatness. Print it out single-sided, but whatever you do, DO NOT sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of a Passport Acceptance Agent! They need to witness your signature to verify your identity. The DS-82 form can be signed at home 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 needs to meet very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last six months, a plain white or off-white background, and no glasses, hats, or uniforms. Seriously, they’re particular! You can’t take this yourself with a smartphone and expect it to pass. Since there isn’t a dedicated photo studio in Whitmire, you’ll need to drive a bit. Your best bets are drugstores like CVS or Walgreens in nearby towns such as Newberry (about 20 minutes) or Clinton (about 15 minutes). Most of these locations offer passport photo services that guarantee compliance with federal guidelines, saving you a potential resubmission hassle.
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 form), you absolutely must submit your application in person. You’ll bring all your documents, your unsigned DS-11, and your photos to a Passport Acceptance Facility. Whitmire doesn’t have one, so you’ll head to a nearby Post Office in Newberry (2009 Main St, Newberry), Clinton (202 N Broad St, Clinton), or Union (103 W Main St, Union). It’s highly recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment, as walk-ins might not be accommodated, especially during busy times. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll simply mail your application, old passport, photo, and fees directly to the address specified 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.
Don’t forget the payment! There are two main fees: the application fee for the passport itself (book, card, or both) and an execution fee for in-person applications (DS-11). The application fee typically must be paid by check or money order made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State,’ while the execution fee (for DS-11) is paid separately to the acceptance facility. Check current fees on travel.state.gov, as they do change. If you’re mailing in a renewal, you’ll include one check or money order for the total. Consider paying extra for expedited service if you need your passport quickly, and factor in the cost of secure mailing, especially for renewals where you’re sending your old passport.
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 WHITMIRE
Make sure you have everything needed for WHITMIRE facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ WHITMIRE 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 WHITMIRE’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 WHITMIRE facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from WHITMIRE.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in WHITMIRE. 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
Honest comparison to help WHITMIRE residents choose the right option
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
Stay informed with our latest guides and tips
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
Read More →
Discover which destinations welcome U.S. passport holders without additional visa requirements.
Read More →
A comprehensive guide to different visa categories and when you might need them for international travel.
Read More →