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.
Read More →Get Your U.S. Passport Fast in Lakewood, Washington
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What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in Lakewood
Trusted by 500,000+ Customers Since 1992
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AI Passport Assistant for Lakewood
Ask me anything about getting your passport in Lakewood — instant expert answers
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Guaranteed to Make Your Trip
We’ll handle everything from your Lakewood home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Lakewood Residents
Based on verified reports from Lakewood applicants (last updated: )
56
Average Days
Routine Service
8 Weeks
Typical Range
90% of cases
3-6 Days
Days with Us
Average expedited
Note: Government states “” but actual Lakewood times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Lakewood, Washington
Let’s transform your travel dreams into reality, Lakewood style.
1
Figure Out: New Traveler or Passport Renewer?
First things first – determine whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing an existing passport. For newcomers, you’ll need to appear in person at our Lakewood City Hall. Seasoned travelers can often use mail-in options. Consider your military status, as JBLM personnel have slightly different protocols.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
2
Hunt Down Your Paperwork Arsenal
Gather your documentation like a strategic mission. You’ll need proof of citizenship (birth certificate), valid photo ID, and recent passport photos. Pro tip: The UPS Store near Clover Park often provides excellent passport photo services that meet strict government requirements.
💡 Pro Tip:
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
3
Craft Your Application with Precision
Fill out Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Use black ink, write clearly, and double-check every detail. Our local processing centers have seen countless applications, so accuracy is key. Military members should pay extra attention to deployment-related documentation nuances.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
4
Capture Your Official Portrait
Passport photos in Lakewood require specific guidelines. Consider locations like the UPS Store or local pharmacies that understand government photo requirements. Avoid casual selfies – these need professional standard backgrounds and lighting. Military personnel might have additional photo protocols.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
5
Submit Your Passport Packet
Head to Lakewood City Hall or an approved acceptance facility. Bring all original documents, completed forms, and payment. Processing times vary, but our local staff work efficiently. Military ID holders might experience slightly expedited processing due to base connections.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
6
Seal the Deal with Payment
Current passport fees range from $130-$165 depending on book or card type. Cash, credit, and personal checks are typically accepted. Military members might qualify for reduced fees. Keep your receipt and tracking information for future reference.
💡 Pro Tip:
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.
Smart Tools for Lakewood Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Lakewood
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Lakewood facilities
Photo Validator
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
✓ Requirements:
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in Lakewood:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Lakewood facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression
Common mistakes in Lakewood:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Lakewood facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Lakewood
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Lakewood 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.
New Passport vs. Renewal in Lakewood
Understanding which process applies to you
New Passport
- First-time applicants (never had a U.S. passport)
- Children under 16 applying for their first passport
- Previous passport lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition
- Passport issued before age 16 and you’re now over 16
- Passport issued more than 15 years ago
📍 Must Apply in Person
New passport applications require you to visit one of Lakewood’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewal
- Current passport in your possession (undamaged)
- Passport issued when you were 16 or older
- Passport issued within last 15 years
- Passport issued in your current name (or you can document name change)
- Adult passport holder (age 16+)
✉️ Can Mail It In
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Lakewood facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Lakewood.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Lakewood. 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.
All Lakewood Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Lakewood.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Lakewood residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Lakewood Facility
Use PassportsAndVisas.com
Processing Time
8-11 weeks standard
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
1-3 business days guaranteed
Convenience
Visit facility, wait in line, limited hours
Done from your Lakewood home—we handle everything
Document Review
Basic check at facility (errors common)
Expert review before submission—99% error-free
Passport Photo
$10-15 at facility, quality varies
Professional photo included free
Application Tracking
Basic online status (3 stages only)
Real-time SMS/email updates + dedicated specialist
Error Protection
Self-responsible for mistakes (30% error rate)
Zero-error guarantee—we fix mistakes at our cost
Delivery
USPS First-Class (no tracking)
Priority delivery with full tracking to Lakewood
Support
Facility hours only, general help
24/7 support + dedicated specialist
Total Cost
$165 (new) or $130 (renewal)
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
From $147 (all-inclusive)
Frequently Asked Questions
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Adult passport books cost $130 for first-time applicants, with an additional $35 execution fee. Passport cards are $30 plus the $35 fee. For Lakewood residents, fees can be paid by check, money order, or credit card at the Pierce County Passport Acceptance Facility.
The Lakewood City Hall and select local post offices serve as passport acceptance facilities. The Pierce County Annex and Lakewood Library are also approved locations. Always call ahead to confirm current hours and availability for passport services.
For international travel, a passport is required for all U.S. citizens. If traveling by land to Canada or Mexico, a passport card might suffice. For cruises departing from Seattle, a full passport book is recommended to ensure maximum travel flexibility.
Adult passports (age 16 and over) are valid for 10 years from the date of issue. Child passports (under 16) are valid for 5 years. Lakewood residents should plan to renew well before expiration, especially if international travel is anticipated.
Your birthplace doesn’t impact passport eligibility. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate), valid photo ID, passport photo, and completed application form. Lakewood residents have multiple local facilities to assist with the application process.
Lakewood applicants need a government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, military ID, or previous passport. If your current ID is expired, you’ll need additional documentation like a valid passport or naturalization certificate along with the expired ID.
Active duty military personnel can receive expedited processing at no additional cost. With Joint Base Lewis-McChord nearby, many Lakewood residents qualify for special passport services. Military members should bring current military ID when applying.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
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