For folks in Morgantown eyeing international travel, your very first step is figuring out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply refreshing an old one. This choice dictates which government form you’ll need and whether you’ll submit it in person or by mail. If you’ve never held a valid U.S. passport, or if your last one was issued when you were under 16, or if it’s lost/stolen, you’re a “newbie” needing the DS-11 form. If you’re renewing an adult passport issued less than 15 years ago and it’s still in your possession and undamaged, congratulations – you’re a “pro” and you’ll tackle the DS-82 form. This initial clarity saves a lot of hassle down the line.

Now’s the time to gather all the critical documents proving who you are and where you come from. Everyone needs proof of U.S. citizenship – usually your original birth certificate (with a raised seal!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo identification like your West Virginia driver’s license. Don’t forget copies of *both sides* of your ID! If your name has changed since your birth certificate or previous passport, bring original marriage certificates or court orders. Remember, these need to be originals; photocopies won’t cut it for the citizenship proof, though you’ll provide photocopies for the application itself.

With your documents at the ready, it’s time to actually fill out the appropriate application form: the DS-11 for new applicants or the DS-82 for renewals. While you *can* pick up blank forms at a local acceptance facility, it’s generally easier to fill out the form online at travel.state.gov. This ensures everything is legible and prompts you for all necessary information. **Crucial tip:** print it out but **DO NOT SIGN IT** if you’re a DS-11 applicant! That signature must happen in front of an acceptance agent. Be meticulously accurate with every detail; any error can cause significant delays in processing.

You need a recent, color photograph that meets very specific State Department requirements. No glasses, no hats, a neutral facial expression, and a plain white or off-white background are key. This isn’t the time for a casual selfie. Thankfully, Morgantown has several convenient spots where you can get this done professionally. Think local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, or shipping centers like The UPS Store (check locations like Suncrest Town Centre or Sabraton Plaza). They typically understand the precise passport photo rules, ensuring your picture won’t be rejected. Don’t try to crop one yourself; let a pro handle it.

Understanding the fees is straightforward but crucial because you’ll likely have two separate payments. There’s the fee for the passport itself (book, card, or both) which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, and a separate “execution fee” if you’re submitting a DS-11 in person, which goes to the acceptance facility. Check travel.state.gov for the most current fee schedule. For the State Department fee, you’ll need a check or money order; cash isn’t accepted. The acceptance facility fee might allow cash, credit card, or check. Budget for expedited service if you’re in a hurry; it costs extra but can cut processing time significantly.

This is where the Morgantown-specific action happens! If you’re using the DS-11 (new passport), you *must* submit your application in person. Thankfully, our town has several official passport acceptance facilities. You can head to the Morgantown Post Office on Pleasant Street or the one on Dents Run. Another option is the Monongalia County Clerk’s Office. Schedule an appointment if possible, especially at the Clerk’s Office, to avoid long waits. Bring all your original documents, copies, photo, unsigned DS-11, and both payment methods. For DS-82 renewals, simply mail your old passport, new form, photo, and payment directly to the address on the form.