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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Ready to explore the world beyond Killeen? Getting a U.S. passport is your first step. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering straightforward, Killeen-specific advice to help you secure your travel document with ease. Let’s get you set for adventure!
Before you do anything else, figure out whether you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an old one. If you’ve never had one, your previous passport was issued when you were under 16, it’s been lost/stolen, or it expired more than 15 years ago, you’ll likely need to apply in person using form DS-11. However, if your most recent passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years ago (and you were over 16 when it was issued), you’re probably eligible to renew by mail with form DS-82. Double-check your specific situation on the official travel.state.gov website to confirm your path.
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 gather all your foundational paperwork. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll need an original birth certificate (with a raised seal!) or your most recent, undamaged passport. Don’t forget proof of identity, typically your valid Texas driver’s license or a state-issued ID. Critically, you’ll need both the original *and* a photocopy of your citizenship document and ID for the application. Make sure those copies are clear, single-sided, and on standard white paper. Keep these documents safe; they’re precious!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Head over to travel.state.gov to access either Form DS-11 (for first-time or in-person applicants) or DS-82 (for mail-in renewals). It’s highly recommended to fill out the form online and then print it; this helps prevent errors and ensures readability. For the DS-11, remember this crucial tip: DO NOT sign the form until you are in front of a Passport Acceptance Agent. They need to witness your signature. For the DS-82, you can sign it before mailing. Take your time, fill in every required field accurately, and review it carefully for any mistakes.
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 6 months, white or off-white background, full-face view, and a neutral facial expression (no big smiles!). Absolutely no glasses are allowed, and your ears should be visible. In Killeen, you can easily get these done at local spots like CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store. They’re familiar with the specs and can usually provide printouts on the spot. Just tell them you need a U.S. passport photo.
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.
There are usually two separate fees: the passport application fee and an execution fee (if applying in person with a DS-11). The passport fee must typically be paid by check or money order, made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ The execution fee, paid to the acceptance facility (like the Post Office), can often be paid with a card or check. Check the current fee schedule on travel.state.gov as costs can change. Be prepared with the correct payment methods to avoid any delays when you submit your application.
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.
For DS-11 applicants, you must submit everything in person. The Killeen Main Post Office (on South W.S. Young Drive) is a reliable passport acceptance facility. Call ahead or check their website for appointment availability – it’s often required! Bring all your original documents, their photocopies, your unsigned DS-11 form, your passport photo, and your payment (checks/money orders prepared). The acceptance agent will review your documents, witness your signature, and mail your application. If you’re renewing by mail with a DS-82, simply send your signed form, old passport, photo, and payment to the address listed on the form.
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 killeen
Make sure you have everything needed for killeen facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ killeen 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 killeen’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Bell County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no killeen facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from killeen.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in killeen. 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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Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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