Before anything else, figure out your starting point. Are you a brand-new applicant, perhaps for a child, requiring a DS-11 form? Or are you simply renewing an expired passport with a DS-82? The requirements differ significantly. If you’re getting your very first passport or applying for a minor, you’ll need the DS-11, which always requires an in-person appearance. For renewals, you might be able to mail everything in if you meet specific criteria, like your old passport being less than 15 years old. Double-check your eligibility on travel.state.gov. Knowing this upfront will save you time and potential headaches down the road, especially before you head to a Clarksville acceptance facility.

This step involves a bit of detective work to gather your essential documents. For proving your U.S. citizenship, you’ll typically need an original birth certificate (with a raised seal) or a previous, undamaged passport. For identification, a valid Tennessee driver’s license or state-issued ID works perfectly. Remember, you’ll need both the original document *and* a photocopy of the front and back of your ID, as well as a photocopy of your citizenship evidence. Don’t forget these copies; facilities in Clarksville won’t make them for you, and finding a copier last minute can be a hassle. Make sure everything is current and matches your name exactly.

Now it’s time to complete the actual passport application form. You can fill out either the DS-11 (for new applications and minors) or DS-82 (for renewals) directly on the travel.state.gov website, then print it out. This is often recommended as it minimizes errors and ensures legibility. However, if you prefer, you can print a blank form and fill it out neatly by hand using black ink. A crucial note for DS-11 applicants: *Do not sign the form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent*. This signature must be witnessed. For Clarksville residents, using a local library like the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library can be a great option if you need access to a computer and printer to complete your form.

Your passport photo needs to meet strict guidelines, so resist the urge for a selfie! It must be recent (within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches in size, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes and accompanied by a signed statement), and maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open. Think ‘serious, but approachable.’ Fortunately, several places around Clarksville can help you with this. Local drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, as well as The UPS Store, typically offer passport photo services. Just make sure to double-check their work against the official requirements before you leave the store.

This is where you make it official! You’ll need to visit a passport acceptance facility. In Clarksville, your primary options include several U.S. Post Office branches and the Montgomery County Clerk’s Office (check their website for specific passport services and hours). Be sure to call ahead or check their online portals to see if an appointment is required, as walk-ins might not always be accommodated. Bring all your gathered documents—the unsigned DS-11 (if applicable), proof of citizenship, ID, copies, and your passport photo. An agent will review everything, witness your signature (for DS-11), and seal your documents for mailing to the State Department.

The final step at the facility involves payment. You’ll typically have two separate fees: one for the passport application itself, payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State’ (usually by check or money order), and an ‘execution fee’ for the acceptance facility, which can often be paid by credit card or cash. Confirm accepted payment methods with your chosen Clarksville facility beforehand. Once everything is submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this number on the travel.state.gov website to monitor your application’s progress. Standard processing can take several weeks, but expedited services are available for an extra fee if your travel plans are urgent. Patience is key, but checking its status helps ease the wait!