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Passport services in WASHINGTON DC
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What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in WASHINGTON DC

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We’ll handle everything from your WASHINGTON DC home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.

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Peak Times Alert

WASHINGTON DC passport facilities are busiest , especially during . Average wait time is minutes without an appointment. Call ahead at for or book appointments at Post Offices. Our service eliminates all wait times—we come to you anywhere in .

📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA

Real Passport Processing Times from WASHINGTON DC Residents

Based on verified reports from WASHINGTON DC applicants (last updated: )

56
Average Days
Routine Service
8 Weeks
Typical Range
90% of cases
3-6 Days
Days with Us
Average expedited
Note: Government states “” but actual WASHINGTON DC times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.

How to Get a Passport in WASHINGTON DC, DC

Navigating the world of passport applications can feel like a bureaucratic maze, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re planning an international adventure or renewing an old travel document, getting your passport sorted in Washington D.C. is totally doable. Follow these simple steps to streamline your journey to a new passport.

1

Figure Out Your Passport Path: Newbie or Refresher?

Your first move is to determine if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply refreshing an expired one. This crucial decision dictates which application form you’ll need. If this is your very first passport, or if your previous one was issued before age 16, lost, stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago, you’ll tackle Form DS-11. Renewing a passport issued within the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older, and still have in your possession? Then DS-82 is your form. For minors under 16, both parents (or legal guardians) must typically apply in person with the child, using DS-11. Understanding your status from the outset saves considerable time and ensures you gather the correct initial paperwork.

💡 Pro Tip:

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.

2

Round Up Your Proof-of-Self Papers

Now, it’s time for a document hunt! For a new passport (DS-11), you’ll absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Alongside that, bring proof of identity, like your valid D.C. driver’s license or a government-issued ID. Remember, these must be originals or certified copies; photocopies alone won’t cut it. For renewals (DS-82), your old passport is typically your primary document. Make sure it’s in good condition and wasn’t issued when you were a minor. Keep all these vital documents safe, as they will be mailed off with your application and returned to you separately.

💡 Pro Tip:

Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.

3

Tackle the Official Paperwork

With your documents assembled, it’s time to complete the application form. You can fill out Form DS-11 or DS-82 online at the Department of State’s website, then print it out. For DS-11 applicants, a critical reminder: DO NOT sign the form until instructed to do so by an Acceptance Agent. Signing prematurely could invalidate your application. Carefully review every section for accuracy, paying close attention to names, dates, and contact information. Errors can cause significant delays. Additionally, prepare your payment for the application fee. Checks or money orders are usually preferred at acceptance facilities, made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’

💡 Pro Tip:

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.

4

Snag That Perfect Passport Mugshot

A crucial, often overlooked, step is getting your passport photo right. This isn’t just any snapshot! It needs to be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, hats, or uniforms (except religious attire worn daily) are permitted. Maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. You can typically get compliant photos at numerous places around D.C. Many CVS, Walgreens, or FedEx Office locations, easily accessible by Metro or walking, offer passport photo services that ensure adherence to federal guidelines. It’s quick, inexpensive, and helps avoid rejection of your application.

💡 Pro Tip:

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.

5

Hand Over Your Packet to Uncle Sam

This is where the D.C. specific knowledge comes in handy! If you’re using Form DS-11 (new passport), you *must* submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility. D.C. has several post offices and libraries acting as such facilities. Consider the Main Post Office at 900 Brentwood Rd NE, or branches like the one near L’Enfant Plaza for convenience. **Always call ahead or check online to book an appointment**; walk-ins are rarely accommodated, especially in a busy city like D.C. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll simply mail your application, old passport, and payment to the address specified on the form. For urgent travel, the Washington Passport Agency, located at 1111 19th Street NW, is an option, but it requires a confirmed appointment for imminent international travel.

💡 Pro Tip:

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.

6

Play the Waiting Game (and Track It!)

Once your application is submitted, the waiting begins. Processing times can fluctuate, so always check the State Department’s website for current estimates, especially during peak travel seasons. Standard processing can take several weeks, while expedited service (for an extra fee) is faster. You’ll receive your new passport and original documents back in separate mailings. Don’t worry, you can easily track the status of your application online using the Application Status Checker on the Department of State website. Just enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Stay patient, and happy travels!

💡 Pro Tip:

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.

Smart Tools for WASHINGTON DC Applicants

Use these free tools to plan your passport application

📅

Travel Date Calculator

Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from WASHINGTON DC

✓

Document Checklist

Make sure you have everything needed for WASHINGTON DC facilities

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Photo Validator

Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities

✓ Requirements:
• 2×2 inches in size
• White or off-white background
• Taken within last 6 months
• Clear, front-facing view
• No glasses, hats, or headphones
• Neutral expression

Common mistakes in WASHINGTON DC:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most WASHINGTON DC facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
⚠️

Common Mistakes in WASHINGTON DC

We’ve analyzed 1,200+ WASHINGTON DC 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.

New Passport vs. Renewal in WASHINGTON DC

Understanding which process applies to you

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New Passport

  • First-time applicants (never had a U.S. passport)
  • Children under 16 applying for their first passport
  • Previous passport lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition
  • Passport issued before age 16 and you’re now over 16
  • Passport issued more than 15 years ago
📍 Must Apply in Person

New passport applications require you to visit one of WASHINGTON DC’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.

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Renewal

  • Current passport in your possession (undamaged)
  • Passport issued when you were 16 or older
  • Passport issued within last 15 years
  • Passport issued in your current name (or you can document name change)
  • Adult passport holder (age 16+)
✉️ Can Mail It In

Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no WASHINGTON DC facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from WASHINGTON DC.

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Parking & Directions Pro Tip

Parking typically costs $2 per hour in WASHINGTON DC. 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.

All WASHINGTON DC Passport Facilities

Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely

Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service

Honest comparison to help WASHINGTON DC residents choose the right option

Feature
Apply at WASHINGTON DC Facility
Use PassportsAndVisas.com
Processing Time
8-11 weeks standard
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
1-3 business days guaranteed
Convenience
Visit facility, wait in line, limited hours
Done from your WASHINGTON DC home—we handle everything
Document Review
Basic check at facility (errors common)
Expert review before submission—99% error-free
Passport Photo
$10-15 at facility, quality varies
Professional photo included free
Application Tracking
Basic online status (3 stages only)
Real-time SMS/email updates + dedicated specialist
Error Protection
Self-responsible for mistakes (30% error rate)
Zero-error guarantee—we fix mistakes at our cost
Delivery
USPS First-Class (no tracking)
Priority delivery with full tracking to WASHINGTON DC
Support
Facility hours only, general help
24/7 support + dedicated specialist
Total Cost
$165 (new) or $130 (renewal)
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
From $147 (all-inclusive)

Frequently Asked Questions

We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.

For a first-time adult passport book (DS-11), the basic cost is $130, paid to the Department of State. Additionally, there’s a $35 execution fee payable to the acceptance facility, like a D.C. post office. So, expect to pay a total of $165. These fees are standard across the U.S., regardless of where in D.C. you submit your application.
Routine processing times can vary, but generally, expect to wait 6-8 weeks from the date your application is submitted and received by the National Passport Center. This includes mailing time. Always check the official Department of State website for the most current estimates, as these can fluctuate based on demand, especially during peak travel seasons.
For faster service, you can expedite your application. This adds an extra $60 fee, potentially reducing the processing time to 2-3 weeks. You can also pay for 1-2 day delivery for an additional $19.53. If you have urgent travel (within 14 days), you might qualify for an appointment at the Washington Passport Agency for even quicker processing.
A passport book is valid for all international air, land, and sea travel. A passport card, much smaller, is only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It cannot be used for international air travel. Whether you need both depends on your travel plans. Most international travelers opt for the book.
If your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older, is undamaged, and expired within the last 5 years (or is still valid), you can usually renew it by mail using form DS-82. Otherwise, if it was issued when you were under 16, or is severely damaged, you’ll need to apply in person as if it were a new passport using form DS-11.
To prove U.S. citizenship for a passport application, you’ll typically need your original birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship. Photocopies are not accepted; you must present the original document, which will be returned to you after processing.

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