Harford County Public Library Passport Services

If you require a passport sooner than the standard processing times, you have options in the Bel Air area. Start by contacting the National Passport Information Center to inquire about expedited service. Expedited processing typically shortens the wait time to around 2-3 weeks, but it involves an additional fee of $60. The Bel Air Post Office on Blum Court might also be able to assist with expedited requests, so it’s worth giving them a call at (410) 838-3343. Alternatively, consider contacting your congressional representative, particularly if your need is critical. Representative Andy Harris’s office can sometimes help expedite passport applications for constituents with urgent travel needs, such as a family emergency. Make sure to have all your documentation ready to go when you contact these services to facilitate a faster response.

The processing time for passports applied for at the Harford County Public Library varies depending on the current demand. As of November 2024, routine processing averages 7.2 weeks from the date of application to the date you receive your passport. Expedited processing, for an additional fee, takes approximately 2.5 weeks. Keep in mind these are estimates, and processing times can fluctuate. You can check the latest processing times on the Department of State’s website. After submitting your application at the library, you’ll receive a tracking number, allowing you to monitor the status of your application online. If you need your passport by a specific date, consider applying well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

Yes, there is parking available at the Harford County Public Library for your passport appointment. The library has a dedicated parking lot located directly behind the building, accessible from Bond Avenue. This lot is free to use, which is a nice perk. However, it can get busy, especially during peak hours, so it’s a good idea to arrive a bit early to snag a spot. If the library lot is full, there’s metered street parking available on Pennsylvania Avenue and nearby streets. Just remember to bring some change or be prepared to use a credit card at the meter. And if you’re visiting during the winter, be mindful of potential ice in the parking lot!

Your passport photos need to meet strict requirements, and the Harford County Public Library staff will double-check them for you. The photos must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size, with your head positioned in the center of the frame. The distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head should be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm – 35 mm). They should be in color and taken against a plain white or off-white background. You need to have a neutral facial expression, with both eyes open. Glasses are generally not allowed, but there are exceptions for medical reasons. If you’re unsure, it’s best to remove them. The ShopRite Pharmacy on Main Street offers passport photo services if you need them taken locally.

To ensure a smooth passport application process at the Harford County Public Library, gather all the necessary documents before your appointment. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or a previous U.S. passport. You also need a valid photo ID, like a driver’s license or government-issued ID. If you’re applying for a child, both parents must be present, and you’ll need to provide proof of parental relationship. Don’t forget to bring the completed DS-11 application form and two identical passport photos. Payment for the application fee and execution fee is also required. Being prepared with all these items will help expedite your application process significantly!

The passport office is located at 100 E PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, BEL AIR, MD 21014. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 4106383151.0 to confirm before visiting.

Photos on-site: 1. If available, photos typically cost around $15 in cash.

Routine processing takes 12-13 weeks. Expedited service (additional $60 fee) takes 7-9 weeks. Our expedited service gets your passport in 3-10 days.

Most facilities accept check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments: one to “U.S. Department of State” ($130) and one to “HARFORD COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

Handicap access: 1. The facility is ADA compliant with accessible entrances and facilities.

Parking at the Harford County Public Library is available in the adjacent lot directly behind the building. Access to the lot is via Bond Avenue. This free lot offers approximately 65 spaces, however, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekdays. If the library lot is full, metered street parking is available on Pennsylvania Avenue and Bond Avenue. These meters typically cost $1 per hour and accept coins or credit cards. Alternatively, the Mary Risteau Garage, located at 220 South Main Street (0.3 miles south), offers covered parking at a rate of $8 per day. During the summer months, be mindful of the heat and try to park in shaded areas if possible. In the winter, be aware that the parking lot can become icy; take caution when walking. Allow an extra 10-15 minutes to find parking, particularly during busy times. An additional parking option is the small lot behind the Bel Air Town Hall on Hickory Avenue, a 5-minute walk from the library. This lot is also free but tends to fill up even faster.

No, passport renewals cannot be done at acceptance facilities. Renewals must be mailed directly to the State Department using Form DS-82, or you can use our expedited renewal service.

If you’re traveling soon, our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 days. We handle everything from document review to delivery, with 24/7 support. Call 800-860-8610 to get started.