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Hey Scottsdale neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but we’re here to make it a breeze. Whether you’re dreaming of a European vacation after a long summer or need to hop across the border, this guide will walk you through the process, Scottsdale-style. You can apply through the usual channels, like the Scottsdale Post Office or Clerk of the Superior Court in downtown Phoenix, or, for a quicker turnaround, use our expedited service detailed below. Just follow these steps, be patient (processing times vary!), and you’ll be sipping a margarita on a beach in no time. Let’s get started!
Before anything else, figure out if you need a completely new passport or just a renewal. Did your last passport expire? Were you a minor when you got it? If so, you’ll need a new one. If you’re just renewing, the process is usually simpler. Knowing this upfront will save you time and hassle. Check your passport’s expiration date and the issue date. This will determine which form you need to fill out.
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.
Gather all the required documents. This typically includes proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate) and a valid photo ID (like your Arizona driver’s license). Make sure to have originals AND photocopies of everything. Also, locate your Social Security number – you’ll need to provide it on the application. Double-check that the names on all your documents match; discrepancies can cause delays. Gather everything in a folder so it’s organized for when you fill out the form.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Next, complete the appropriate passport application form. For new passports, it’s Form DS-11. For renewals, it’s typically Form DS-82 (more on that below). You can download these forms from the U.S. Department of State website or pick them up at the Scottsdale Post Office on N Drinkwater Blvd. Fill it out carefully and accurately, using black ink. Don’t sign it until you’re instructed to do so by an acceptance agent if you’re applying in person.
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.
You’ll need a passport-compliant photo. This means a 2×2 inch color photo with a white background, taken within the last six months. Avoid wearing glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note). You can get your photo taken at many places in Scottsdale, including Walgreens on Shea Blvd, CVS Pharmacy on Scottsdale Rd, or even professional photography studios that specialize in passport photos. Make sure the photo meets all the requirements to avoid rejection.
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.
You have a couple of options for submitting your application. The most common is through the USPS. You can schedule an appointment at the Scottsdale Post Office. Alternatively, the Maricopa County Clerk of the Superior Court in downtown Phoenix accepts passport applications. For expedited service, you can use a registered passport agency (search online for ‘expedited passport Scottsdale’) or, contact us directly! Expedited processing can significantly reduce the waiting time if you’re in a hurry.
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.
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this to monitor the status of your application online through the U.S. Department of State website. Keep in mind that processing times can vary, so be patient. Current wait times are listed on the Department of State website. If your travel is urgent, consider contacting your congressional representative’s office – they may be able to assist with expediting your application, but no promises!
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 Scottsdale
Make sure you have everything needed for Scottsdale facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Maricopa and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Scottsdale facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Scottsdale.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Scottsdale. 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.
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
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