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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Planning an adventure beyond Vermont’s borders? Securing your passport in Barton doesn’t have to be a mountain of paperwork. This guide breaks down each step, making the process straightforward for residents of our charming Northeast Kingdom town. Get ready to explore the world!
Before diving into forms, pause to figure out if you’re a new applicant or simply updating an expired or expiring passport. If it’s your very first passport, or your previous one was issued before you were 16, expired more than 15 years ago, or is damaged, you’ll be using Form DS-11. This requires an in-person application. If you meet certain criteria – your previous passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16 or older, and expired less than 5 years ago – then you’re likely eligible for a simpler mail-in renewal using Form DS-82. Knowing this first step streamlines everything else.
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 unearth your crucial identity papers. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll usually need your original, certified birth certificate (with a raised seal!), or a previous, undamaged passport. Don’t just bring a photocopy; they need the original. If you were naturalized, bring your Certificate of Naturalization. Next, gather your valid, government-issued photo identification, like your Vermont driver’s license. You’ll need both the original ID and a front-and-back photocopy for your application. For children, you’ll need proof of parental relationship and both parents’ IDs. Double-check everything before moving on!
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 get down to the nitty-gritty of filling out the correct application. You can find both DS-11 (for new applicants) and DS-82 (for renewals) forms on the U.S. Department of State website. It’s often easiest to complete these online, then print them out. If you’re using Form DS-11 for a first-time passport, remember a crucial detail: DO NOT SIGN IT. You must sign the DS-11 in front of an acceptance agent at your submission appointment. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign it before mailing. Fill out every section completely and accurately to avoid any processing hiccups.
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 isn’t just any snapshot; it has specific rules! You’ll need one 2×2 inch color photo, taken within the last six months, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious purposes, with a signed statement), and a neutral facial expression or natural smile. While Barton might not have a dedicated photo studio, many residents head to nearby Newport. Stores like Hannaford in Newport often have self-service kiosks, or pharmacies like Rite Aid or CVS in larger towns nearby can take compliant photos. Just ensure they meet all the State Department’s strict guidelines.
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.
Getting a passport involves a couple of fees. There’s the application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State. This usually needs to be paid by check or money order. A separate ‘execution fee’ or ‘acceptance fee’ is paid to the facility that processes your application (if applying in person), typically paid to them directly, often by cash or credit card. Look up the current fees on the State Department website, as they can change. If you need it expedited, there’s an additional fee for faster processing and potentially for faster shipping. Plan your payments carefully to avoid delays.
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 new applicants using the DS-11 form, you must apply in person. This means visiting an official passport acceptance facility. While Barton itself doesn’t have one, your closest options are generally the Post Offices in nearby towns. The Newport Post Office at 23 Cherry St, Newport, VT 05855, or the Orleans Post Office at 23 Main St, Orleans, VT 05860, are excellent choices for Barton residents. Call ahead to confirm their passport acceptance hours and if an appointment is needed. Remember to bring all your originals – citizenship proof, ID, photos, and the unsigned DS-11 – as the agent will verify documents, witness your signature, and seal everything for mailing. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll simply mail your application directly.
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 BARTON
Make sure you have everything needed for BARTON facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ BARTON 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 BARTON’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 BARTON facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from BARTON.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in BARTON. 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
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