Your initial move is figuring out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an expired one. This choice dictates which form you’ll need. If you’re applying for the very first time, if your previous passport was issued when you were under 16, or if your last passport was lost/stolen, you’ll generally use Form DS-11. Renewals, assuming your most recent passport is intact, was issued when you were 16 or older, and isn’t too old, typically utilize Form DS-82. Don’t stress too much; the U.S. Department of State website provides clear guidelines. Carefully read their ‘New vs. Renewal’ section to confirm your category before proceeding.

Next up, gather all the foundational documents that confirm who you are and where you come from. For a first-time application (DS-11), you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, like your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also require a valid form of identification, such as your Texas driver’s license. Remember, for DS-11, you’ll need the *original* documents, plus photocopies of both sides. For renewals (DS-82), your previous passport is usually sufficient. Double-check expiration dates; outdated IDs won’t fly. Organizing these now saves a huge headache later. Keep everything together in a safe folder.

Now it’s time to complete your specific passport application form. Head over to the Department of State’s official website (travel.state.gov) and find either Form DS-11 or DS-82. You can fill these out digitally, which helps prevent errors and ensures legibility. Accuracy is paramount here – every detail matters, from your middle name to your place of birth. Print the completed form single-sided, but *do not sign* it if you’re using Form DS-11. That crucial signature must be witnessed by an acceptance agent, which we’ll cover in a bit. For DS-82, you will sign it before mailing. Take your time and review every field.

Your passport photo isn’t just any selfie; it has very strict requirements. It needs to be a recent, color photo, taken within the last six months, sized 2×2 inches, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses are allowed, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile. Finding a place in San Antonio for this is simple. Many CVS, Walgreens, and UPS stores offer passport photo services, ensuring they meet federal guidelines. Even the AAA office or local photo studios often provide this service. It’s worth the small fee to ensure your picture isn’t rejected, delaying your entire application.

This is a key step, especially for DS-11 applicants. You must submit your materials in person at a passport acceptance facility. In San Antonio, you’ll find these primarily at select U.S. Post Offices and some Bexar County Clerk’s offices. For example, the USPS locations at 727 E Durango Blvd or 12100 Broadway are popular choices. It’s *highly recommended* to schedule an appointment online beforehand to avoid long waits; walk-ins are often a gamble. Bring all your documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your photo, and your payment. An acceptance agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and seal your documents for submission. For DS-82 renewals, simply mail your documents directly.

The final administrative step involves paying the necessary fees. There’s a passport application fee and, for DS-11 applicants, an execution fee charged by the acceptance facility. These fees vary based on the type of passport (book, card, or both) and whether you opt for expedited service. Check the Department of State’s website for the most current fee structure. Many acceptance facilities in San Antonio accept checks or money orders payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. You can then monitor the processing status online at travel.state.gov, eagerly awaiting your new passport’s arrival in your mailbox!