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 a U.S. passport in Cypress, TX doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re planning an international adventure or renewing an old one, navigating the process is straightforward with a little preparation. This guide will walk you through each essential step, ensuring your journey from Cy-Fair to anywhere is smooth sailing. Let’s get your travel document ready!
Before anything else, understand if you’re applying for your very first passport (or replacing one issued when you were a minor, or one that expired over 15 years ago) or simply renewing an existing adult passport. First-time applicants, minors, and certain expired passports require a DS-11 application and an in-person visit. Renewals for adult passports issued within the last 15 years typically use the DS-82 form and can often be mailed in. Knowing this upfront will dictate your next steps and what documents you’ll need to gather, saving you a potential trip back home.
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 crucial! For new passports (DS-11), you’ll 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 also need a valid government-issued ID, like your Texas driver’s license or state ID, along with a photocopy of both the front and back. For renewals (DS-82), your most recent passport usually serves as both citizenship proof and ID. Make sure all names on your documents match or you have supporting legal name change paperwork.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Your passport photo must meet specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last six months, a plain white or off-white background, and no glasses (unless medically necessary). Avoid hats or uniforms. Many places in Cypress can help you get this done correctly. Consider popping into your local CVS or Walgreens, or the FedEx Office on US-290. They’re familiar with the specs and can usually provide two photos quickly and affordably, ensuring yours won’t be rejected for being out of compliance.
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.
Head over to the official travel.state.gov website to download and print the correct form: DS-11 for new applications or DS-82 for renewals. Fill out all sections completely and accurately, preferably using black ink. This sounds basic, but errors can cause delays. Here’s a critical tip for DS-11 applicants: DO NOT SIGN THE FORM until you are explicitly instructed to do so by a Passport Acceptance Agent at your appointment. Signing prematurely will invalidate the form and you’ll have to restart, so keep that pen capped!
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.
For DS-11 applications (new passports), you must submit your materials in person. You’ll need to find a Passport Acceptance Facility. Post offices are common choices; the Copperfield Post Office (8320 Hwy 6 N, Houston, TX 77095) or the Cypress Post Office (17006 Mueschke Rd, Cypress, TX 77433) are good local options. Call ahead to check their hours and if an appointment is necessary, as some facilities can get quite busy. Bring all your original documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo to your appointment.
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.
There are two separate fees: the application fee (for the passport itself) and the execution fee (paid to the acceptance facility for processing). The application fee typically requires a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of State,” while the execution fee (usually $35) might be payable by check, money order, or sometimes credit card to the facility. Verify current fees and accepted payment methods beforehand. After submission, you can track your application status online. Standard processing times vary, but expedited options are available if you need it sooner for your next great escape!
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 cypress
Make sure you have everything needed for cypress facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ cypress 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 cypress’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Harris County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no cypress facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from cypress.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in cypress. 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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