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Hey Martinez neighbors! Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s a pretty straightforward process. You can handle it yourself at places like the Post Office or County Clerk’s office – details below! Or, if you’re short on time or just want extra assurance, we can help expedite the process for you, taking the stress out of the equation. Whether you’re planning a relaxing trip to Wine Country beyond the Benicia Bridge, or a cross-country adventure, let’s get your passport sorted. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to go!
First things first: do you *really* need a brand-new passport? Check the expiration date on your current one. Many countries require at least six months of validity remaining. If it’s expired, damaged, or if you’ve had a major life event (like a name change after getting married at the Zio Fraedo’s!), you’ll need to apply for a new one. If not, you might just need a renewal. Even if you aren’t planning any immediate trips, having a valid passport is a great form of ID to keep at home!
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.
You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship. This could be a certified copy of your birth certificate (not a photocopy!), a previous U.S. passport, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Certificate of Naturalization. If using your birth certificate, make sure it’s the official one with the raised seal, the kind you’d get from the county recorder. Check your records, that you might have kept for when you enrolled your child at Morello Park Elementary. This will save you valuable time later!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
There are two main passport application forms: DS-11 (for new passports, lost/stolen passports, or renewals for those under 16) and DS-82 (for renewals that meet specific criteria – see Renewal section below). Download the correct form from the U.S. Department of State website and fill it out *carefully*. Use black ink and print clearly. Double-check all the information – even a small error can cause delays. You can even complete the form online and print it out, making the process easier.
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 very specific requirements – size, background, facial expression, the works! You can get passport photos taken at drugstores in Martinez like Walgreens on Alhambra Avenue, or even at the Martinez Post Office itself. Make sure the photo meets all the requirements – a white background, no glasses, and a neutral expression. Don’t try to take it yourself – trust the professionals to get it right the first time.
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 your application, supporting documents, and photo, it’s time to submit everything. Martinez residents can submit their applications at the Martinez Post Office (401 Ferry St) or at the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office in Martinez (725 Court Street). Call ahead to check their hours and whether appointments are needed. Or, you can use our expedited service for a faster and simpler experience. We’ll handle the submission and keep you updated every step of the way.
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 to monitor your application’s status online. Current processing times can vary, so be patient! The State Department website provides estimated processing times. Remember, it’s always best to apply well in advance of any planned travel. Keep checking that status regularly, you can never be too prepared!
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 Martinez
Make sure you have everything needed for Martinez facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Martinez 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 Martinez’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Contra Costa and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Martinez facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Martinez.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Martinez. 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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