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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Getting your passport sorted for that upcoming trip doesn’t have to be a headache, even right here in Brazoria, Texas. Whether you’re planning an international adventure or just need crucial proof of citizenship, follow these straightforward steps to navigate the process smoothly. We’ll guide you from gathering necessary documents to submitting your application locally, making it a breeze.
Before diving into paperwork, clarify your situation. If this is your very first U.S. passport, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, or if it was lost/stolen, you’re considered a ‘new applicant’ (DS-11 form). This means an in-person visit is mandatory. However, if your current passport is less than 15 years old, you were 16 or older when it was issued, and it’s in good condition, you can likely renew by mail using form DS-82. Knowing this upfront saves a lot of time and effort for Brazoria residents. Get this right, and the rest flows much easier.
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 is where you assemble your proof. For new applicants, you’ll need original proof of U.S. citizenship (like a certified birth certificate or previous passport) AND a valid photo ID (such as your Texas driver’s license). Ensure your birth certificate isn’t just a hospital record; it must be an official, certified copy with a raised seal. For renewals, your old passport usually suffices. If your name has changed, don’t forget the original legal document (marriage certificate or court order). Double-check every item against the official State Department checklist to avoid a wasted trip from Brazoria. Always bring copies of everything too!
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 accurately fill out the correct form. If you’re a new applicant, grab the DS-11. Renewing? You’ll need the DS-82. Both are readily available online at the State Department’s website (travel.state.gov) and can often be filled out digitally before printing. It’s highly recommended to type it out to ensure absolute legibility. Read every instruction carefully. A critical note: do NOT sign the DS-11 form until you’re explicitly instructed to do so by an acceptance agent, as it must be signed in front of them. For Brazoria residents, completing it at home prevents delays at the facility.
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 strict federal guidelines: 2×2 inches, white or off-white background, no glasses, a neutral facial expression, and taken within the last six months. Don’t try a selfie! Many places in or near Brazoria can provide this service for you. Your local Walgreens or CVS in nearby Lake Jackson or Angleton are excellent bets, offering instant prints that meet the requirements. They are usually well-versed in the specifics. This isn’t the time for creative photography; follow the rules precisely to avoid frustrating delays with your application. A good photo is key!
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 a new applicant (DS-11), you *must* submit your materials in person. Brazoria County residents have several convenient options. The Angleton Post Office (301 E Cedar St, Angleton, TX 77515) is a reliable local choice. Other nearby options include the Lake Jackson Post Office. Always call ahead to confirm their passport service hours and if an appointment is needed. Bring all your original documents, the completed but unsigned DS-11, your passport photo, and payment for fees. The acceptance agent will verify your identity and witness your signature. Remember, absolutely no signing the DS-11 beforehand!
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.
At the acceptance facility, you’ll need to pay two separate fees: one to the U.S. Department of State (typically a personal check or money order) and another to the acceptance facility itself (often cash, credit card, or money order). The current adult passport book fee is $130, plus a $35 execution fee. Expedited service costs extra, if you’re in a hurry. Once paid, your application will be mailed off to the processing center. You can track its status online using the State Department’s website. Standard processing takes several weeks, so plan your trip accordingly. Soon, your brand-new passport will arrive, ready for your next adventure beyond Brazoria!
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 brazoria
Make sure you have everything needed for brazoria facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ brazoria 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 brazoria’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Brazoria County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no brazoria facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from brazoria.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in brazoria. 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 brazoria residents choose the right option
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