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Hey Oaklanders! Planning a trip from the Town to somewhere a little more…exotic? Getting a passport might seem daunting, but it’s totally doable. This guide breaks it down into simple steps tailored just for us. You can handle this through standard channels like the downtown Oakland Post Office or even some libraries. But if you’re crunched for time – hey, we get it, sideshows wait for no one! – we also offer expedited services to speed things up. Just remember, the official processing times can vary, so plan ahead and let’s get you that passport!
First things first: Do you need a brand-new passport or just a renewal? Check your current passport’s expiration date. If it’s already expired, or will expire within the next year (especially if you’re traveling internationally), you’ll likely need a renewal. If you’ve never had a passport before, or your old one was lost or stolen, then you’re looking at a new application. This simple check saves a lot of time and frustration down the line, trust me!
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 essentials! For a new passport, you’ll definitely need proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate) and a valid photo ID (like your California driver’s license). If you’re renewing, you’ll usually need your old passport. Make photocopies of everything! It’s always good to have backups. Pro Tip: Keep these documents in a safe place, like a fireproof safe, especially given Oakland’s susceptibility to earthquakes and fires.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Head to the U.S. Department of State’s website and find the correct application form. For a new passport, it’s Form DS-11. For renewals (if eligible), it’s DS-82. Fill it out carefully and legibly! Double-check everything before printing. You can fill it out online and then print it, which helps avoid messy handwriting. There are even libraries in Oakland with free computer and printer access if you need them. Don’t sign the form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
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 are super specific. They need to be 2×2 inches, in color, with a white background, and show your full face. Places like Walgreens or CVS in Oakland offer passport photo services. Or, support a local business! Plenty of photo studios around Lake Merritt can handle this. Just make sure they understand the passport photo requirements. Avoid wearing glasses (unless you have a medical reason and provide a doctor’s note). No hats or head coverings unless it’s for religious reasons.
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.
Okay, now you’re ready to submit! You can schedule an appointment at the Oakland Main Post Office (201 13th Street) – they are a designated passport acceptance facility. Some Oakland public libraries offer passport services, but check their schedules first. Alternatively, if you’re looking to expedite the process and avoid the lines and scheduling hassles, contact us! We can significantly reduce processing times for an additional fee.
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 it on the U.S. Department of State’s website to check the status of your application. Processing times can vary, so be patient. Standard processing can take several weeks or even months, so plan accordingly. If you chose expedited processing, it’ll be faster, but still, allow ample time. Soon you’ll be ready for that trip to Bali, Cancun, or just across the Bay!
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 Oakland
Make sure you have everything needed for Oakland facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Oakland 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 Oakland’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Alameda and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no Oakland facility visit needed. But mailing takes 35+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Oakland.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Oakland. 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 Oakland residents choose the right option
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