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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Embarking on international adventures or simply needing official ID? Securing a U.S. passport from Cedar Hills, UT, is a straightforward process. This guide cuts through the confusion with clear steps and local tips to help you sail smoothly from your doorstep to your destination, ensuring you’re ready for whatever journey lies ahead.
Before anything else, determine if you’re applying for a new passport (your very first, or replacing one issued when you were a minor) or simply renewing an existing adult passport. This distinction is crucial because it dictates which form you’ll need. If you’re a first-time applicant or under 16, you’ll tackle the DS-11 form and must appear in person. Adults renewing a passport issued less than 15 years ago, when you were 16 or older, will use the DS-82 form and can often mail it in. Check the U.S. Department of State’s official website carefully to confirm your specific situation, as requirements can shift. Understanding this initial classification saves significant time and effort down the line, ensuring you gather the correct documents from the outset.
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.
Next, it’s time to gather your critical documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, dig out your original birth certificate (with a raised seal), previous undamaged passport, or naturalization certificate. A simple photocopy won’t suffice here; they’ll need the original. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification, like your Utah driver’s license. Don’t forget to make a clear, front-and-back photocopy of both your citizenship evidence and your ID. These copies must be separate from the originals and will be submitted alongside your application. Missing any of these key pieces means a definite delay, so double-check everything meticulously before moving on. Keep all these important papers in a safe, accessible place as you proceed through the remaining steps.
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 complete the actual application form. For new applications or those for minors, you’ll be working with Form DS-11. Renewals for eligible adults require Form DS-82. While you can often print these out and fill them by hand, it’s usually best to complete the form online at the Department of State’s website. This helps ensure legibility and minimizes common errors. Print the completed form single-sided, but *do not sign* the DS-11 until instructed by an acceptance agent, as it must be signed in their presence. Fill in every required field accurately; any mistakes could prolong the processing time. A careful review before printing is highly recommended to catch any typos or omissions, making your submission process smoother.
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 guidelines, so don’t just snap a selfie! The picture must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches, with a white or off-white background, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are permitted. You’ll need two identical photos. Luckily, several places near Cedar Hills can assist. Consider popping over to the Walgreens in American Fork (708 E 500 S) or the CVS Pharmacy in Pleasant Grove (998 W 200 S) – both offer passport photo services. Local photo studios might also provide this service with professional quality. Explain that you need U.S. passport-compliant photos to ensure they meet all federal requirements.
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.
Before you head out, calculate the exact fees for your passport book, passport card, or both, plus any expedited service charges if you’re in a hurry. You’ll find the most current fee schedule on the Department of State’s website. Payment for the passport application fee must generally be made by check or money order, payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ Cash and credit cards are usually not accepted for the application fee itself. If you’re submitting a DS-11 in person, there will also be a separate execution fee (currently $35) paid directly to the acceptance facility, which might accept credit cards or cash. Ensure you have the correct payment methods ready for both fees to avoid any last-minute hassles during 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.
For first-time applicants or anyone using the DS-11 form, you must personally visit a passport acceptance facility. Fortunately, several U.S. Post Offices near Cedar Hills serve this purpose. Excellent options include the American Fork Post Office (78 N Center St, American Fork, UT 84003) or the Pleasant Grove Post Office (175 E 200 S, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062). It’s wise to call ahead or check their website for current hours and to confirm if an appointment is needed. Bring all your original documents, photocopies, completed forms (unsigned DS-11!), photos, and payment. If you’re renewing by mail with a DS-82, simply follow the mailing instructions on the form. Once submitted, you can track your application’s progress online, then eagerly await your new passport!
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 CEDAR HILLS
Make sure you have everything needed for CEDAR HILLS facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ CEDAR HILLS 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 CEDAR HILLS’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no CEDAR HILLS facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from CEDAR HILLS.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in CEDAR HILLS. 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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