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Hey there, Los Gatos neighbors! Planning a trip to Italy, hiking Machu Picchu, or maybe just a quick jaunt across the border? You’ll likely need a passport. Getting one might seem daunting, but it’s a pretty straightforward process, and we’re here to help. You can handle it yourself through local acceptance facilities like the USPS offices in Los Gatos or Campbell, or if you’re in a hurry, consider using our expedited service to streamline things. This guide will walk you through each step. Just remember to be patient – processing times can vary. Let’s get you ready for your next adventure!
First things first: do you even *need* a new passport? Check the expiration date on your current one. Many countries require at least six months of validity beyond your planned stay. If it’s expired, expiring soon, or you’ve had a significant name change since it was issued, you’ll need to take action. If your passport was lost or stolen, it’s also considered a ‘new’ application, not a renewal. Take a peek now before moving on. It can save you a lot of time!
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 ‘passport kit’! For a new passport, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a valid photo ID (like your California driver’s license). Make sure you have *original* documents *and* photocopies of each. For renewals, you typically just need your expiring passport. Having everything organized and ready will make the application process much smoother, whether you’re submitting it at the Los Gatos Post Office or using our expedited service.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Choosing the right form is crucial. For new passports, you’ll use Form DS-11. For renewals, it’s generally Form DS-82 (but double-check the criteria). You can download these forms from the State Department’s website or pick them up at the USPS offices on Los Gatos Boulevard. Fill them out neatly and completely *in black ink* (critical!). Don’t sign the form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent, which they will do at the post office during your submission.
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. The photo must be 2×2 inches, with a white background, and you must be facing forward with a neutral expression. Walgreens and CVS in Los Gatos offer passport photo services. Avoid wearing white clothing! Consider getting two photos, just in case one is rejected. Keep a digital copy on your phone.
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 two main options for submitting your application: standard or expedited. For the standard route, schedule an appointment at a Passport Acceptance Facility, such as the USPS office on Los Gatos Boulevard or at the Campbell Post Office on Winchester Blvd. These require appointments that are hard to come by! Alternatively, you can use our expedited service. We’ll handle the submission process for you, significantly speeding up the turnaround time. Standard applications require you to mail it yourself and follow-up. Expedited services often require less interaction with the postal service. Choose the option that best fits your timeline and needs!
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 its progress on the State Department’s website. Keep in mind that processing times can vary, especially during peak travel seasons (like summer or holidays). Be patient, but don’t hesitate to contact the National Passport Information Center if you have concerns or haven’t received updates within the estimated timeframe. If you’re using our expedited service, we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
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 Los Gatos
Make sure you have everything needed for Los Gatos facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Santa Clara and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Los Gatos facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Los Gatos.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Los Gatos. 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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