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Hey Fontana neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Whether you’re planning a trip to Mexico from Rancho Cucamonga or finally visiting family overseas, this guide will walk you through it. You can apply at local acceptance facilities like the Fontana Post Office or the San Bernardino County Clerk-Recorder’s office. Keep in mind processing times can vary, so plan ahead! For expedited service and peace of mind, we also offer assistance to help streamline your application. Let’s get started and make your travel dreams a reality!
Before you start gathering documents, figure out if you need a brand new passport or just a renewal. If your current passport is expired (or will expire within a year) or was issued when you were under 16, you’ll need to renew it. Check the issue date and expiration date carefully! This simple step will save you a lot of time and potential headaches later on. Double-check the requirements – it’s easier than driving all the way to downtown San Bernardino and finding out you’re missing something!
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 gather your paperwork! You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate or previous passport) and a valid photo ID (like your California driver’s license). Make a photocopy of both the front and back of your ID. Keep the originals safe! The Fontana Branch Library sometimes offers free or low-cost document copying services, so check their website or call ahead to see if they can help you out.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Head over to the U.S. Department of State’s website and download the correct passport application form. It’s usually Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Read the instructions carefully and fill it out completely and accurately. Even small errors can cause delays. Use black ink! You can even complete the form online and then print it out. A good tip: double check everything before submitting. A clear, accurate form is the key to a speedy approval.
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.
Your passport photo needs to meet very specific requirements. It must be 2×2 inches, taken against a plain white background, and show your full face. Many drugstores and photo studios in Fontana, like those on Sierra Avenue, offer passport photo services. Make sure the photographer knows the U.S. passport photo specifications! Avoid wearing white clothing, as it can blend into the background. Get a couple of extra copies just in case.
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 Fontana Post Office on Sierra Lakes Parkway is a common choice, but appointments are usually required, so call ahead. Alternatively, you can go to the San Bernardino County Clerk-Recorder’s office. Depending on your urgency, we can also help with an expedited process to get your passport quicker. The main thing is to bring all your documents, photos, payment and a happy attitude!
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 U.S. Department of State website to monitor the status of your application. Processing times can vary, so be patient. Currently, processing times are taking longer than usual, so plan well in advance of your trip! Once approved, your new passport will be mailed directly to your Fontana address. Keep it safe and start packing your bags!
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 Fontana
Make sure you have everything needed for Fontana facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Fontana 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 Fontana’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in San Bernardino and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Fontana facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Fontana.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Fontana. 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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