Renewing your passport is easy; print the form, include your expired passport and mail it in. Applying for a passport for the first time or after you turn 18 is not so easy.
Here are the steps you'll take.
1. Renewing (DS-82)
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/renew-by-mail.html
2. Applying for the first time (DS-11)
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/forms.html
3. Lost or Stollen (DS - 64)
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/requirements/forms.html
Where to take your application if your are doing this for the first time; you can make an appointment if you want.
http://www.hillsclerk.com/about-us/service-options-and-locations
What to bring with you:
Bring with you your ID, old passport, birth certificate, photo of yourself from walgreens, two checks & a credit card
make a black and white copy of your application and fill out before you arrive at the court house
fees for applying ($120)
Audio Instructions: