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Hey Surprise neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Whether you’re planning a trip to Mexico, hopping over to Europe, or just want to be prepared, this guide will walk you through it, Surprise-style! You can process your passport at local facilities like select USPS locations or, for a quicker turnaround, use our expedited service right here in the Valley. Just follow these steps and you’ll be ready to travel in no time. Remember to factor in processing times – it’s always better to start sooner rather than later!
First things first: Do you need a brand-new passport, or a renewal? Generally, if your passport is expired or was issued when you were under 16, you’ll need a new passport. If your passport is still valid, was issued when you were 16 or older, and isn’t damaged, you can likely renew it. Figuring this out at the start saves you time and headaches! Double-check the requirements on the State Department’s website – policies change, so it’s better to be sure.
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.
Time to assemble your documents! This includes proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or previous passport), a valid photo ID (like your Arizona driver’s license), and a photocopy of both. Make sure your birth certificate is an original or certified copy – a hospital certificate won’t cut it. Organize everything in a folder to keep it all together; maybe one of those folders you picked up at the Surprise Regional Library!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
The form you need depends on whether you’re applying for a new passport (Form DS-11) or a renewal (Form DS-82, if eligible). You can download these forms from the State Department website or fill them out online. Double-check that all the information is accurate and legible – any errors can delay your application. Use black ink if you’re filling out a paper form. No white-out! If you mess up, print a fresh one.
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 specific requirements: white background, no glasses (usually), a neutral expression, and a certain size. You can get passport photos taken at many places around Surprise, including drugstores like Walgreens or CVS on Bell Road, or at professional photography studios. Make sure the photo meets all the requirements, or your application could be rejected! Alternatively, you could use an online service for convenience.
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.
If you’re applying for a new passport, you’ll need to submit it in person. Select USPS locations in Surprise, such as the one on Grand Avenue, accept passport applications. Check their hours and appointment requirements online before you go. If you need your passport sooner, consider using our expedited service. This can significantly cut down on processing time, which is especially helpful if you have a last-minute trip planned from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.
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 number on the State Department website to check the status of your application. Processing times can vary, so be patient! If you haven’t received your passport within the estimated timeframe, you can contact the National Passport Information Center. If you used our expedited service, we’ll help you with the tracking process.
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 Surprise
Make sure you have everything needed for Surprise facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Surprise 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 Surprise’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 Surprise facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Surprise.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Surprise. 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
Honest comparison to help Surprise residents choose the right option
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