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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What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in Carthage
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AI Passport Assistant for Carthage
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We’ll handle everything from your Carthage home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Carthage Residents
Based on verified reports from Carthage applicants (last updated: )
56
Average Days
Routine Service
8 Weeks
Typical Range
90% of cases
3-6 Days
Days with Us
Average expedited
Note: Government states “” but actual Carthage times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Carthage, Tennessee
Getting your passport in Carthage is easier than you might expect.
1
Decode Your Passport Needs
Determine whether you’re applying for a brand new passport or renewing an existing one. In Carthage, we see a mix of first-time travelers and seasoned globetrotters. First-timers will need more comprehensive documentation, while renewals typically require less paperwork. Consider your specific travel timeline and international destination requirements.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
2
Gather Your Documentation Arsenal
Collect proof of citizenship like your birth certificate, valid government ID, and any name change documentation. Here in Carthage, our courthouse staff have seen it all – from military discharge papers to adoption certificates. Make copies of everything and keep originals secure. Pro tip: local copy shops near Betty’s Country Store can help if needed.
💡 Pro Tip:
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
3
Photography: Your Passport Portrait
Passport photos must meet strict federal guidelines. In Carthage, several local businesses offer professional passport photo services. The pharmacy on the town square typically provides excellent, regulation-compliant photos. Avoid casual selfies or home snapshots – these will be rejected immediately. Neutral expression, proper lighting, and correct dimensions are crucial.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
4
Completing the Passport Application
Form DS-11 for new passports requires meticulous completion. Use black ink, write clearly, and double-check every entry. Local residents often find it helpful to complete the form at home, then review it with courthouse staff. Consider bringing an extra copy as a backup. Remember, Carthage’s small-town efficiency means minor errors can quickly derail your application.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
5
Payment and Processing
Passport fees vary based on book type and processing speed. Carthage residents can pay via personal check, money order, or credit card at the courthouse. Expedited services cost more but guarantee faster turnaround. Our local staff recommend budgeting for standard processing unless you have imminent travel plans. Keep all receipts and transaction records.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
6
Final Submission and Tracking
Submit your meticulously prepared application in person at the Smith County Courthouse. Our staff will verify documents, take your oath, and provide a tracking number. Typical processing takes 6-8 weeks for standard service. Carthage’s efficient system means you’ll likely receive updates via mail. Consider creating an online account to track your passport’s journey.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
Smart Tools for Carthage Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Carthage
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Carthage facilities
Photo Validator
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
✓ Requirements:
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in Carthage:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Carthage facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in Carthage:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Carthage facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Carthage
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Carthage 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.
New Passport vs. Renewal in Carthage
Understanding which process applies to you
New Passport
- First-time applicants (never had a U.S. passport)
- Children under 16 applying for their first passport
- Previous passport lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition
- Passport issued before age 16 and you’re now over 16
- Passport issued more than 15 years ago
📍 Must Apply in Person
New passport applications require you to visit one of Carthage’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewal
- Current passport in your possession (undamaged)
- Passport issued when you were 16 or older
- Passport issued within last 15 years
- Passport issued in your current name (or you can document name change)
- Adult passport holder (age 16+)
✉️ Can Mail It In
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Carthage facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Carthage.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Carthage. 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.
All Carthage Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Carthage.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Carthage residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Carthage Facility
Use PassportsAndVisas.com
Processing Time
8-11 weeks standard
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
1-3 business days guaranteed
Convenience
Visit facility, wait in line, limited hours
Done from your Carthage home—we handle everything
Document Review
Basic check at facility (errors common)
Expert review before submission—99% error-free
Passport Photo
$10-15 at facility, quality varies
Professional photo included free
Application Tracking
Basic online status (3 stages only)
Real-time SMS/email updates + dedicated specialist
Error Protection
Self-responsible for mistakes (30% error rate)
Zero-error guarantee—we fix mistakes at our cost
Delivery
USPS First-Class (no tracking)
Priority delivery with full tracking to Carthage
Support
Facility hours only, general help
24/7 support + dedicated specialist
Total Cost
$165 (new) or $130 (renewal)
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
From $147 (all-inclusive)
Frequently Asked Questions
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
For adults 16 and older, a new passport book costs $130 with an additional $35 execution fee. For children under 16, the passport book is $100 with the same $35 execution fee. These fees can be paid by check or money order at the Carthage passport acceptance facility.
In Carthage, you can typically apply for passports at the Smith County Clerk’s Office. They are an official passport acceptance facility that can witness your application, verify documents, and process initial submissions for both adult and child passports.
While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, the Smith County Clerk’s Office strongly recommends scheduling an appointment for passport services. This ensures shorter wait times and guarantees a dedicated staff member will assist you with your application.
Tennessee residents must provide proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), a valid government-issued photo ID, a passport photo taken within the last 6 months, and complete the appropriate DS-11 or DS-82 form depending on whether it’s a first-time or renewal application.
If you were born outside the U.S. but are a U.S. citizen, you’ll need additional documentation like a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or your previous U.S. passport. You’ll still follow standard application procedures at the Carthage passport facility.
No, passport fees are non-refundable in Carthage or anywhere in the United States. Even if your application is denied or rejected, the processing and execution fees cannot be returned. It’s crucial to ensure all documentation is complete and accurate before submission.
A passport book allows international travel by air, land, and sea. A passport card is cheaper but only valid for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. In Carthage, most residents opt for the full passport book for maximum travel flexibility.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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