First-Time Passport: Complete Checklist for 2025
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
Read More →Get Your U.S. Passport Fast in Cambridge, Minnesota
Expert expedited service from $147 — Processing in as fast as 3 days with zero errors guaranteed
✓
500,000+ Passports
⭐
4.8/5 Rating
🔒
State Dept. Authorized
What You Need to Know: Getting a Passport in Cambridge
Trusted by 500,000+ Customers Since 1992
UPS
Make-A-Wish
Coca-Cola
State Dept. Authorized
As seen in:
The New York Times
Forbes
USA TODAY
NBC
AI Passport Assistant for Cambridge
Ask me anything about getting your passport in Cambridge — instant expert answers
✓
Guaranteed to Make Your Trip
We’ll handle everything from your Cambridge home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
📊 EXCLUSIVE DATA
Real Passport Processing Times from Cambridge Residents
Based on verified reports from Cambridge 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 Cambridge times vary. Our data shows reality based on real user submissions.
How to Get a Passport in Cambridge, Minnesota
Let’s break down your passport journey into manageable steps.
1
Decode Your Passport Puzzle
First things first – determine whether you need a brand new passport or a renewal. Each pathway has unique requirements. New applicants will need more documentation, while renewals offer a slightly smoother route. If you’ve never had a passport before, prepare for a bit more paperwork, but don’t worry – our staff has seen it all.
💡 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
Document Detective Work
Gather your identification materials like a pro. You’ll need your birth certificate (original, not a copy), valid driver’s license, and proof of citizenship. Pro tip from Cambridge locals: keep these in a secure folder and double-check everything before walking into City Hall. Our staff appreciates preparedness almost as much as we appreciate a good hotdish.
💡 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
Picture Perfect Preparation
Your passport photo needs to meet strict federal guidelines. No selfies allowed! Head to a local pharmacy or designated photo location that understands passport specifications. The Cambridge Coborn’s photo center is a reliable spot. Make sure your expression is neutral, head is straight, and background is plain white or off-white.
💡 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
Form Filling Fundamentals
Time to complete your DS-11 (new passport) or DS-82 (renewal) form. Do this in black ink and print clearly. If you’re struggling, our City Hall staff can offer guidance. Some folks find filling out government forms as complex as navigating our local county fair, but we’re here to help simplify the process.
💡 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
Submit and Verify
Bring all materials to Cambridge City Hall during standard business hours. Our staff will meticulously review your application, checking every detail. We take pride in getting this right the first time. Expect the process to take about 30 minutes, depending on how prepared you are. Patience is a virtue we value in Isanti County.
💡 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
Fees and Final Touches
Payment is the final hurdle. Bring a check or money order – we recommend calling ahead to confirm current fee structures. Passport card and book prices vary, so know exactly what you need. Processing times range from routine (4-6 weeks) to expedited (2-3 weeks). Our City Hall team can break down all the details for you.
💡 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 Cambridge Applicants
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Travel Date Calculator
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from Cambridge
Document Checklist
Make sure you have everything needed for Cambridge facilities
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 Cambridge:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Cambridge facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
• 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 Cambridge:
Photos taken with phone at home often get rejected. Most Cambridge facilities offer photo services for $10-15, or our service includes compliant photos free.
Common Mistakes in Cambridge
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ Cambridge 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 Cambridge
Understanding which process applies to you
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 Cambridge’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
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 Cambridge facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from Cambridge.
Parking & Directions Pro Tip
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in Cambridge. 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 Cambridge Passport Facilities
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
No Facilities Found
There are no passport facilities currently listed for Cambridge.
Facility Application vs. Our Expedited Service
Honest comparison to help Cambridge residents choose the right option
Feature
Apply at Cambridge Facility
Use PassportsAndVisas.com
Processing Time
8-11 weeks standard
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
5-7 weeks expedited (+$60)
1-3 business days guaranteed
Convenience
Visit facility, wait in line, limited hours
Done from your Cambridge 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 Cambridge
Support
Facility hours only, general help
24/7 support + dedicated specialist
Total Cost
$165 (new) or $130 (renewal)
+$60 for expedited
+$15 photos = $240
+$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 adults (16 and older), a passport book costs $130, while a passport card is $30. If you need both, the combination book and card is $160. Children’s passports (under 16) are less expensive at $80. These fees include execution fees and are standard across Minnesota, including our Cambridge location.
Cambridge City Hall and the Isanti County Government Center handle passport applications. The local post office also provides passport photo services and can accept applications. For the most convenient service, call ahead to verify current hours and confirm specific passport processing availability.
Yes, you’ll need a valid passport or passport card for land and sea travel to Canada. For air travel, a full passport book is required. Cambridge residents near the Minnesota-Canadian border should ensure their documentation is current before any international travel.
Adult passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issue. Passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years. Cambridge residents should plan renewal well in advance of international travel, typically 6-9 months before expiration.
Birth location doesn’t impact passport eligibility. What matters is your U.S. citizenship. If you were born in Cambridge and can provide a valid birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and meet other requirements, you can apply for a passport at our local facilities.
You’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, along with an original or certified birth certificate. For first-time applicants in Cambridge, bringing both parents (if possible) can help streamline the application process at the Isanti County service center.
Passport fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Cambridge applicants should carefully review all requirements before submission. If there are issues with your application, you’ll typically receive documentation explaining why and how to correct any problems.
Still Have Questions?
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
Expert Passport & Travel Resources
Stay informed with our latest guides and tips
Passport Guide
Travel Tips
10 Countries Americans Can Visit Without a Visa
Discover which destinations welcome U.S. passport holders without additional visa requirements.
Read More →
Visa Guide
Understanding Visa Types: Tourist, Business & More
A comprehensive guide to different visa categories and when you might need them for international travel.
Read More →