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Planning an international adventure from Oak Brook? Getting your passport is the first crucial step! This guide will walk you through the process with easy-to-understand steps, unique tips, and local insights. We’ll help you navigate the paperwork and appointments so you can focus on packing your bags and dreaming of distant shores.
Before anything else, figure out your passport status. Is this your very first passport application? Or are you looking to renew an existing one that’s about to expire or has recently expired? This distinction determines which application form you’ll need and the precise process to follow. If you’re a first-timer, or if your last passport was issued when you were under 16, you’ll tackle the DS-11 form. Renewals, on the other hand, typically use the DS-82 form. Make sure to check your current passport’s expiration date, especially if travel is looming; some countries require several months of validity remaining post-trip.
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, it’s time to gather your critical documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll generally need your original birth certificate (the long-form version with the raised seal is best), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or a naturalization certificate. For identification, your valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID card will do. Crucially, you’ll need both the original documents and a photocopy of the front and back of each for your application. Don’t forget any legal name change documents if your current ID doesn’t match your birth certificate. Keeping these organized makes the rest of the process 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.
Head over to the official travel.state.gov website to access the correct application form. Whether it’s the DS-11 for first-time applicants or the DS-82 for renewals, fill out every section completely and accurately. You can usually fill these out online and then print them, which often ensures better legibility than handwriting. Here’s a critical piece of advice: *do not sign the DS-11 form!* It absolutely must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent. Signing it beforehand will unfortunately make the form invalid, causing delays. Double-check all entered information for typos before printing.
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 2×2 inch color photo, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. No glasses, no hats, and maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open. For Oak Brook residents, convenient spots like CVS, Walgreens, or The UPS Store (e.g., on Butterfield Road) offer passport photo services that are familiar with these strict guidelines. They can usually snap a compliant photo quickly, ensuring it meets all the State Department’s demands.
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.
First-time applicants and those using the DS-11 form *must* submit their application in person at a passport acceptance facility. While Oak Brook itself doesn’t host a direct post office that handles passports, you’re in luck with several excellent options nearby. Consider the Lombard Post Office (200 W St Charles Rd) or the Downers Grove Post Office (5202 Washington St). Another reliable option is the DuPage County Circuit Clerk’s Office in Wheaton (505 N County Farm Rd). Always call ahead or check their website for current hours of operation and whether an appointment is necessary for passport services.
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.
Finally, with all your documents, completed (unsigned DS-11!) form, and passport photo in hand, head to your scheduled or walk-in appointment at the acceptance facility. An agent will carefully review your entire package, witness your signature on the DS-11, and then collect the required fees. Be prepared for two separate payments: one check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State for the application fee, and a separate payment (which can often be credit card or check) to the acceptance facility for their execution fee. Double-check the exact amount before you go!
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 oak brook
Make sure you have everything needed for oak brook facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ oak brook 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 oak brook’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in DuPage County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no oak brook facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from oak brook.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in oak brook. 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.
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