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Ready to explore the world beyond our beautiful Santa Monica beaches? Getting your passport is the first exciting step! This guide will walk you through the process, making it as smooth as a bike ride down the Marvin Braude Path. Let’s get you set up for your next global adventure!
Your initial move is figuring out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport (maybe it’s your very first, or your last one expired ages ago), or if you’re just renewing an existing one. This distinction is key because it dictates which application form you’ll need: the DS-11 for new applicants or the DS-82 for renewals. Additionally, if you’re getting a passport for a little one under 16, specific rules apply, involving both parents and proof of parental relationship. Head over to the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to double-check the exact criteria for your situation before gathering anything else. It’s the definitive source!
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.
Next up, it’s time to play detective and gather your crucial official documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll generally need your original, certified birth certificate (with a raised seal), your previous, undamaged passport, or an original naturalization certificate. Photocopies simply won’t cut it here; they need the real deal! You’ll also need a valid, current photo ID, like your California driver’s license or state ID card. Make sure your ID isn’t expired. For minors, additional proof of parental relationship and parental ID are mandatory. Keep these precious documents safe – you’ll need to present the originals when you apply.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now for the actual paperwork! Depending on your ‘passport adventure type’ from Step 1, you’ll either be tackling the DS-11 or the DS-82 form. While you can usually fill these out online at travel.state.gov and then print them, some prefer to print a blank form and complete it by hand with black ink. For those needing access to a printer, remember that the Santa Monica Public Library locations, like the Main Library on Santa Monica Blvd, offer public computer and printing services for a small fee. Just remember not to sign the DS-11 until you’re in front of 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.
Your passport photo needs to meet very specific federal requirements: it must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches, with a white or off-white background, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile, with both eyes open. No glasses allowed anymore! Fortunately, several places around Santa Monica can handle this for you quickly and correctly. Local options include The UPS Store on Wilshire Blvd, many CVS Pharmacy locations (like the one on Lincoln Blvd), or FedEx Office on 14th Street. They’re familiar with the specs and can usually get you squared away in minutes.
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.
If you’re using the DS-11 form (for a new passport or minor’s passport), you *must* submit your application in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Santa Monica, your best bets are local Post Office branches, such as the Santa Monica Main Post Office on 5th Street or the Wilshire Blvd location. Crucially, the Santa Monica Public Library (Main Branch) also serves as a passport acceptance facility, typically by appointment only. Always call ahead or check their website to schedule your visit and confirm hours. For DS-82 renewals, you’ll simply mail your application packet directly to the address specified on the form.
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.
The final hurdle is payment! You’ll typically have two separate fees: the passport application fee, which *must* be paid to the “U.S. Department of State” via check or money order only (no credit cards or cash), and an execution fee for the acceptance facility, which can often be paid by credit card, check, or money order. Be prepared for these separate transactions. After submission, you can usually track the status of your application online at travel.state.gov. Processing times can vary, so always check the current estimates, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. Soon, your new passport will arrive, ready for adventure!
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 santa monica
Make sure you have everything needed for santa monica facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ santa monica 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 santa monica’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Los Angeles County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no santa monica facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from santa monica.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in santa monica. 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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