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Soaking in Aspen’s splendor is incredible, but when wanderlust strikes for destinations beyond the Rockies, a current passport is your golden ticket. Navigating the application process doesn’t have to be a climb; this guide makes getting your essential travel document straightforward and stress-free, even from our beautiful mountain town.
Before you even think about packing your bags, the first step is understanding which application path you’re on. Are you applying for a brand-new passport because you’ve never had one, or is your old one simply expired or expiring soon? This distinction is crucial as it determines whether you’ll complete a DS-11 form (for first-timers, minors, or those with lost/stolen passports) or a DS-82 (for renewals). Take a moment to check your old passport’s expiration date. If it expired more than 5 years ago, or you were under 16 when it was issued, you’ll likely need the DS-11. Grab a warm drink from a local Aspen cafe and spend a few minutes on the U.S. Department of State website to confirm your specific situation; it’ll save you headaches later.
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 stage is about meticulously gathering every piece of identification and citizenship documentation needed. For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely require your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Don’t forget a valid government-issued photo ID like your Colorado driver’s license. Renewals (DS-82) typically just need your old passport. If your last name changed, bring your original marriage certificate or court order. Remember, these must be originals, not photocopies, for verification. Think of it like assembling your ski gear – you wouldn’t hit the slopes without your boots! Ensure all your documents are pristine and readily accessible, perhaps in a designated folder, before you proceed to the next step.
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 tackle the actual paperwork. For new passports (DS-11), it’s highly recommended to fill out the application online at the U.S. Department of State website, then print it out. Crucially, do not sign the DS-11 form until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent! If you’re renewing (DS-82), you can sign it before submitting. Every single field needs to be completed precisely. Errors or omissions can cause significant delays, extending your wait time for those international adventures. Double-check names, dates, and addresses. Find a quiet spot in your Aspen abode, maybe with a view of Ajax, and dedicate focused attention to this essential task. Precision here pays off immensely.
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 isn’t just any selfie; it has very specific requirements. It must be a recent (within the last six months), color photo, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. You can’t wear uniforms. In Aspen, your best bet for a compliant photo is often a local pharmacy or a dedicated photography studio if one exists. Some places like CVS or Walgreens (though the closest are in Glenwood Springs) offer this service. Call ahead to confirm their passport photo availability and hours. This step is critical; a non-compliant photo is a surefire way to get your application 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.
Getting your passport involves a couple of financial outlays. There’s the application fee, which varies depending on whether you choose a passport book, card, or both, and if you opt for expedited service. Then there’s the execution fee (also called acceptance fee), which is a separate payment made directly to the acceptance facility. For the application fee (to the U.S. Department of State), you’ll typically need a check or money order. The execution fee (to the acceptance facility) can sometimes be paid by credit card, check, or cash, but policies vary. Always check the current fees on the State Department’s website. Ensure you have the correct payment methods ready to go to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
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.
This is the culmination of your efforts! For new passports (DS-11), you absolutely must present your application in person to an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Aspen, the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder’s Office is your go-to spot. For renewals (DS-82), you can typically mail your application directly, but delivering in person is often an option too. Remember to bring all your original documents, including your unsigned DS-11 form, your photo, and your payment. It’s wise to call the Clerk and Recorder’s office beforehand to inquire about their hours, any appointment requirements, and specific payment methods they accept for the execution fee. Parking downtown can be tricky, so plan a little extra time for your visit.
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 aspen
Make sure you have everything needed for aspen facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ aspen 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 aspen’s 9 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Pitkin County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no aspen facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from aspen.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in aspen. 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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