What To Know
- Yes, you can visit a passport office in person to apply for or renew your passport.
- To apply for a passport, you will need to complete the DS-11 passport application form and submit it to a passport office.
- A passport is a travel document that allows you to travel internationally, while a passport card is a smaller, card-sized version of a passport that can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Yes, you can visit a passport office in person to apply for or renew your passport. However, it’s important to note that not all passport offices offer the same services. Some offices only handle applications for new passports, while others can also process renewals and other passport-related services.
Locating a Passport Office
To find the nearest passport office, you can use the online locator provided by the U.S. Department of State:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-a-passport/passport-agencies.html
Services Offered at Passport Offices
Passport offices typically offer the following services:
- Applying for a new passport
- Renewing an expired passport
- Replacing a lost or stolen passport
- Getting a passport card
- Reporting a passport that has been lost or stolen
Preparing for Your Visit
Before visiting a passport office, it’s important to gather the necessary documents and information. These may include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
- Photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID card)
- Two passport photos that meet the U.S. Department of State’s specifications
- The application fee (which can be paid by cash, check, money order, or credit card)
Applying for a Passport
To apply for a passport, you will need to complete the DS-11 passport application form and submit it to a passport office. The form can be downloaded from the U.S. Department of State’s website:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/forms.html
Renewing a Passport
To renew your passport, you will need to complete the DS-82 passport renewal application form and submit it to a passport office. The form can be downloaded from the U.S. Department of State’s website:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/forms.html
Other Services
In addition to applying for and renewing passports, passport offices can also provide other services, such as:
- Getting a passport card (a smaller, card-sized version of a passport)
- Reporting a lost or stolen passport
- Getting a certified copy of your passport
- Getting a passport visa (if required for your destination)
Fees
The fees for passport services vary depending on the type of service and the method of application. You can find the current fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State’s website:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/fees.html
Processing Times
The processing time for passport applications varies depending on the time of year and the method of application. You can find the current processing times on the U.S. Department of State’s website:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-a-passport/processing-times.html
Appointment vs. Walk-in
Some passport offices offer appointments, while others are walk-in only. It’s best to check with the passport office you plan to visit to see if they require an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a passport and a passport card?
A: A passport is a travel document that allows you to travel internationally, while a passport card is a smaller, card-sized version of a passport that can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Q: How long is a passport valid for?
A: A regular passport is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
Q: Can I apply for a passport online?
A: No, you cannot apply for a passport online. You must apply in person at a passport office or through the mail.
Q: What should I do if I lose my passport?
A: If you lose your passport, you should report it to the U.S. Department of State immediately. You can do this online or by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Q: How can I get a passport visa?
A: To get a passport visa, you will need to contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit. The visa requirements vary depending on the country.
