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Ready to explore the world? Getting your U.S. passport in Van Nuys doesn’t have to be a headache. This guide will walk you through each step, making the process straightforward and less daunting. From figuring out your paperwork to finding local resources, we’ll help you get that essential travel document in hand.
Before anything else, understand what sort of passport mission you’re undertaking. Are you a first-timer, needing a brand-new passport? Or is it time to refresh an expired one? This distinction is crucial because it dictates which application form you’ll need: the DS-11 for new applications (or minors), or the DS-82 for renewals by mail. Additionally, consider if you need a passport book for international air travel, or a passport card for land and sea travel to specific neighboring countries. Knowing your specific scenario from the start will save you time and confusion down the road. Double-check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest requirements based on your situation.
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.
This step involves gathering the crucial documents that prove who you are and where you come from. For most new applicants, this means your original birth certificate (with a raised seal) or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as your California driver’s license or state ID. Remember, you’ll need the *original* documents, not just photocopies, as they’ll be reviewed and usually returned to you. Make sure all your identification is current and reflects your legal name. Having everything organized beforehand makes your application appointment much smoother.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now it’s time to fill out the actual application form. If you’re using a DS-11, you can complete it online and print it, but **DO NOT SIGN IT** until you are in front of a Passport Acceptance Agent. For DS-82 renewals, you can sign it at home. Ensure every field is accurate and legible. Mistakes can cause significant delays. Take your time, read all instructions carefully, and use black ink. If you make an error, start fresh with a new form if possible, rather than scribbling corrections. The Department of State website (travel.state.gov) offers fillable PDFs, which are often the easiest way to ensure legibility.
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 must meet very specific guidelines – no selfies allowed! It needs to be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. Look straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no big smiles or silly faces) and your eyes open. No glasses are permitted, and head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons with a signed statement. For convenience in Van Nuys, many local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS on Sepulveda Blvd or Sherman Way offer passport photo services. You can also find independent photo studios in the area that specialize in meeting these exact requirements, ensuring your picture won’t be rejected.
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.
For first-time applicants or minors (DS-11), you’ll need to submit your application in person at an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility. The most common and convenient option for Van Nuys residents is often the **Van Nuys Post Office** (located at 15700 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91406), but it’s essential to **make an appointment** in advance. Many facilities operate by appointment only, and walk-ins are rarely accommodated. Check their specific hours and appointment booking procedures online or by calling directly. Bring all your gathered documents, the unsigned DS-11 form, your photo, and your payment method to this appointment. An agent will verify your identity and witness your signature.
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 step involves paying the necessary fees. You’ll typically pay two separate fees: the application fee directly to the U.S. Department of State, and an ‘execution fee’ to the acceptance facility. Acceptable payment methods vary, but usually include personal checks, money orders, or cashier’s checks for the State Department fee, and often credit cards for the execution fee. Confirm these options with your chosen facility beforehand. Once submitted, you’ll receive tracking information. You can track the status of your application online via the Department of State’s website using your last name and date of birth. Processing times fluctuate, so check current estimates if you have upcoming travel plans.
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 van nuys
Make sure you have everything needed for van nuys facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ van nuys 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 van nuys’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 van nuys facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from van nuys.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in van nuys. 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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