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Hey Tuscaloosa! Getting a passport might seem like a hassle, but trust us, it’s easier than navigating game day traffic. This guide breaks down the process into simple steps, specific to our area. You can handle this at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse or the main post office, but keep in mind those can have longer wait times. Need it sooner? We offer expedited passport services right here in town, helping you jump the line and get travel-ready fast. Paperwork and processing take time, so start early, especially if you have a trip to the beach or further afield planned. Let’s get you traveling!
Before diving in, figure out if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. Has your old passport expired, or will it soon? Is it lost or stolen? Did you get it when you were a kid (under 16)? If any of those apply, you’re likely looking at a new passport application. Renewals are simpler but have specific requirements. Take a quick look at your current passport, if you have one, to determine which path to take. This first step saves time and frustration later!
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.
The form you need depends on whether it’s a new passport or renewal. For a new passport, you’ll use Form DS-11. Renewal? That’s Form DS-82. You can download these forms from the U.S. Department of State website or pick them up at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse on Greensboro Avenue. Pro Tip: Fill out the form neatly in black ink, or better yet, type it out online before printing. This reduces errors that could delay your application.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Gathering your documents now will save you trips back and forth later! You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or previous passport) and a valid photo ID (like your Alabama driver’s license). Make photocopies of everything! You’ll submit the copies with your application and keep the originals safe. If your name has changed, include official documentation like a marriage certificate. Having everything organized in a folder will make the submission process smoother.
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.
Passport photos have strict requirements! Size, background, even your expression matters. You can get these taken at the CVS or Walgreens on McFarland Boulevard. Make sure they know it’s for a passport, and they’ll know the proper dimensions. Alternatively, many shipping/mailing stores like The UPS Store also offer passport photo services. Avoid taking selfies – they’re almost always rejected! Pay the small fee for a professional photo; it’s worth avoiding delays.
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.
Ready to submit? If you are not in a rush, schedule an appointment with the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse. You can also check for availability at the main post office on 22nd Avenue. Remember you will need to bring ALL documents (original and copies), the correct forms, and your passport photo. Alternatively, skip the lines and potential delays. Let us expedite your passport! We handle the submission, ensuring everything is perfect, and get it processed much faster.
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.
After submitting, you’ll receive a tracking number to monitor your application online through the Department of State’s website. Processing times vary, so patience is key. Don’t book non-refundable travel until you have your passport in hand! If you used our expedited service, we’ll keep you updated on the progress every step of the way. Once it arrives, double-check all the information for accuracy. Now, get ready to explore the world… Roll Tide!
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.
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Tuscaloosa
Make sure you have everything needed for Tuscaloosa facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Tuscaloosa 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.
Understanding which process applies to you
New passport applications require you to visit one of Tuscaloosa’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Tuscaloosa and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Tuscaloosa facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Tuscaloosa.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Tuscaloosa. 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.
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