How do I apply for a passport?

Notice:  All passport application forms and information on passport processing times from the US State Department may be found here.  We are currently processing passports by appointment only.

Appointments are currently scheduled

Monday -Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. 

Note: Appointments are scheduled in advance by calling (770) 781-2140.  

School Holidays and School Breaks:  Please make appointments for these days well in advance because it is quite likely that capacity will be reached and no appointments will be available. 

You can schedule an appointment to apply in person if at least one of the following conditions applies to you:

• You are applying for your first U.S. passport
• You are under age 16
• Your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16
• Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
• Your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago

If you do not meet any of the above conditions, you are classified as a renewal.  You will need to complete form DS-82 available at travel.state.gov.  Renewals of existing adult passports are handled directly with the US State Department. 

What do I need to apply for a passport?

PASSPORT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Please read carefully

1. Complete application form DS-11 in black ink (DO NOT SIGN-DO NOT COMPLETE SECTION BELOW THE WORD “STOP”). Application must be 2 pages (cannot be front & back).

2. Please bring the following items with the completed application:

a. One (1) recent passport photo.

b. Certified Birth Certificate with raised vital records seal. (These certificates cannot be hospital issued and must include parental information-birth certificate cards are not acceptable.)

i. If a passport was previously issued as an adult, you may submit that passport in lieu of a birth certificate. 

ii. All minors (under 18) must submit a birth certificate along with the previously issued passport. 

c. Applicants under 16 years old must have both parents present.

d. Applicants who are 16-17 years old must have 1 parent present.

e. If a naturalized citizen, submit original certificate.

f. If your name on the application differs from your birth certificate/naturalization papers, provide supporting certified documentation.

g. Driver’s License (if licensed). If “LIMITED TERM” driver’s license, you MUST submit a second form of identification (permanent resident card or passport).

h. CHECK OR MONEY ORDER ONLY payable to US DEPT OF STATE for the following fees:

                              16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER-   $130.00 (Passport Book) 

                                                                                          $30.00 (Passport Card)

                              15 YEARS OF AGE AND UNDER-   $100.00 (Passport Book)

                                                                                          $15.00 (Passport Card)

TO EXPEDITE A PASSPORT add $60.00 (expedite fee) plus $21.36 (overnight return delivery fee) for each application (overnight return for passport book only). 

 i.  PAYMENT in the amount of $35.00 for each application, payable to PROBATE COURT.  (Only the Probate Court fee can be paid using cash, check, or credit/debit card.  If using a credit/debit card, there is a 4.7% convenience fee charged by the credit card processing company and added to the total amount.)

j.  All applicants must appear in person regardless of age.

How do I renew a passport?

NOTE:  Renewals of existing adult passports are handled directly with the US State Department.  Click here for the Home Page of the Travel Division.  Some individuals may be eligible to renew their passport online at their convenience and from the comfort of home.  Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years and must be applied for in person with two parents or guardians present.  You cannot renew a child's passport.

Processing times listed by the US Department of State as of October 4, 2024 is estimated at 4-6 weeks for routine service and 2-3 weeks for expedited service.  Processing times begin on the day the US Department of State office receives the application sent by Probate Court, not the day you apply with the Probate Court.  Mail times to and from the US Department of State office vary across the country.  Some customers have reported a serious delay with the USPS delivering to the passport center or receiving the completed passport.   Please be advised that our office and the US Department of State have no control over the delivery time of the USPS. Please check the US State Department website for the latest estimated processing times.