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Embarking on a journey? Getting your passport in Billings, Montana, is a straightforward process when you know the steps. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering clear, actionable advice tailored for residents of the Magic City. Let’s get you ready for your next international adventure with minimal fuss!
Before anything else, figure out which type of passport application fits your situation. Are you applying for your very first passport? Perhaps it expired more than five years ago, or you were a minor when it was issued? If so, you’ll be tackling the DS-11 form, considered a “new” application. This also applies if your previous passport was lost or stolen. On the flip side, if your current passport is less than 15 years old, was issued when you were 16 or older, and is still in your possession and undamaged, you’re likely eligible for a renewal using the DS-82 form. For children under 16, both parents must apply in person with the child using the DS-11 form, so understanding this distinction upfront saves you a lot of time.
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.
Now it’s time to gather the fundamental documents that prove who you are and where you come from. For proof of U.S. citizenship, you’ll need an *original* birth certificate (not a photocopy!), your previous undamaged passport, or a naturalization certificate. Copies won’t cut it, so make sure you have the real deal. Next, grab a valid, government-issued photo identification like your Montana driver’s license or a state ID card. Remember, you’ll need both the original *and* a photocopy of *both sides* of your ID. If you need a certified copy of your birth certificate, you can request one from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services’ Vital Records office; however, that process takes time, so plan accordingly.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your type of application clear and documents in hand, head online to the U.S. Department of State website to find either the DS-11 (new applications) or DS-82 (renewals) form. Download and print it out. Take your time filling out every section accurately. Read the instructions carefully to avoid common pitfalls. A critical note for DS-11 applicants: *Do not sign the form before your appointment!* You must sign it in front of the passport acceptance agent. For DS-82 renewals, you’ll sign it yourself before mailing. Double-check all names, dates, and addresses. Printing the form at home in Billings, or at a local resource like the Billings Public Library, is often the easiest route.
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 snapshot; it has specific rules! You’ll need a recent (taken within the last six months) 2×2 inch color photo with a plain white or off-white background. Look straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. No hats, glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), or uniforms. These strict guidelines are non-negotiable, and an improper photo will lead to delays. Luckily, getting a compliant photo in Billings is easy. Many local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS offer passport photo services, as do the USPS Passport Acceptance Facilities. They’re equipped to ensure your picture meets all the necessary federal requirements.
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.
For first-time applicants (DS-11), minors, or those with lost/stolen passports, you *must* submit your application in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Billings, your primary option is the U.S. Post Office at 811 Central Ave. It’s crucial to schedule an appointment beforehand, as walk-ins are often not accommodated. Call ahead or use the USPS online scheduler to book your slot. Bring all your original documents, photocopies, your unsigned DS-11 form, and your passport photo. The agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and seal your documents for submission. Remember, renewals (DS-82) are usually mailed directly, but for DS-11, an in-person visit is mandatory.
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.
At your in-person appointment (or when mailing a renewal), you’ll need to settle the fees. There are two main costs: the application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State and an execution fee (for DS-11 applicants) paid to the acceptance facility. The State Department fee *must* be paid by check or money order. The execution fee, however, can often be paid by credit/debit card, cash, or check, depending on the facility. Check current fees on the State Department website before your visit. Once submitted, it’s a waiting game. Routine processing can take several weeks, but expedited services are available for an extra cost if you’re in a hurry. You can track your application’s status online after about 7-10 business days.
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 billings
Make sure you have everything needed for billings facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ billings 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 billings’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Yellowstone County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no billings facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from billings.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in billings. 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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