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Hey El Monte neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually a pretty straightforward process. This guide will walk you through it, keeping it super local and relevant to our area. You can typically handle everything at a local acceptance facility like the El Monte Post Office, or even the City Hall might occasionally offer passport services. Keep in mind that standard processing times can vary, so plan ahead, especially if you’re dreaming of a vacation soon! If you’re in a rush, we can help expedite your application. Let’s get you ready to travel!
First things first: determine if you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal. Has your old passport expired, or was it lost or stolen? If it’s been expired for more than 5 years, or if you were under 16 when it was issued, it’s considered a new passport. If it was recent and you have it in hand, a renewal might be all you need. Knowing this from the get-go will save you time and hassle later in the process. Double-check those dates!
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 supporting documents. For new passports, you’ll generally need proof of U.S. citizenship (like your birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a valid photo ID (like your California driver’s license). Make copies of everything! Keep the originals safe and submit the copies with your application. If you are renewing, you need your previous passport. It’s also a good idea to have your Social Security number handy, as it’s required on the application form. Proof of address is a plus too!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
You’ll need to fill out the correct application form. For a new passport, it’s Form DS-11. For a renewal, it’s usually Form DS-82. You can download these forms from the U.S. Department of State’s website. Or, you can sometimes pick them up at the El Monte Post Office. Be sure to fill out the form completely and accurately. Any errors or missing information could cause delays in processing your application. Double-check everything!
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 must meet very specific requirements. Make sure your photo is 2×2 inches, in color, with a white background. No glasses or hats (unless for religious reasons). You can get passport photos taken at several places in El Monte, including drugstores like CVS and Walgreens. AAA members often get a discount. Just tell them it’s for a passport, and they’ll know the drill. The photo places usually have quick turnaround times.
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.
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to submit your application. You can schedule an appointment at the El Monte Post Office on Valley Boulevard or at another acceptance facility nearby. They will witness your signature and send your application package to the State Department for processing. If you’re short on time, or prefer more streamlined service, we can help expedite your passport application. We handle the paperwork and ensure it’s processed as quickly as possible.
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 your application, you’ll receive a tracking number. Use this number on the State Department’s website to monitor the status of your application. Keep in mind that processing times can fluctuate depending on demand. Standard processing usually takes several weeks. If you need your passport urgently, expedited processing is the way to go. Even with expedited service, allow sufficient time before your planned trip. Patience is key!
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 El Monte
Make sure you have everything needed for El Monte facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ El Monte 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 El Monte’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Los Angeles and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no El Monte facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from El Monte.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in El Monte. 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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