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Ready to explore beyond the Golden Triangle? Getting your U.S. passport in Conrad, MT, is a straightforward process. With a little preparation, your international adventures will be just around the corner. No need to trek far; let’s get your travel document sorted right here in our community!
This crucial first step determines which application form you’ll need. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport, or is it time to renew an old one? If you’re a first-timer or applying for a child under 16, you’ll use Form DS-11. If you previously had a passport, it was issued less than 15 years ago, you were 16 or older when it was issued, and it’s undamaged, you can likely use Form DS-82 for a renewal. Understanding this distinction early on saves a lot of time and effort down the road.
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.
Before you do anything else, you’ll need to locate your foundational documents. For proof of U.S. citizenship, dig out your original birth certificate (with a raised seal), your previous undamaged passport, or your Certificate of Naturalization. Remember, photocopies aren’t enough – you need the genuine article! You’ll also need valid identification, such as your Montana driver’s license or a state-issued ID card. Make sure your ID isn’t expired. Having these ready prevents delays, as they are non-negotiable for proving who you are and where you come from.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now that you know your application type, it’s time to complete the correct form. Head to travel.state.gov to find either the DS-11 (for new applications, minors) or DS-82 (for renewals). It’s best to fill these out online, then print them single-sided. The online forms help ensure accuracy and are generally easier to read. Remember, if you’re completing a DS-11, **do not sign it yet!** You’ll need to sign it in front of a passport acceptance agent at the Post Office. Double-check every field for accuracy to avoid any processing hiccups.
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.
A proper passport photo is vital and has very specific requirements: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last 6 months, plain white or off-white background, no glasses, and a neutral facial expression or natural smile. While Conrad might not have a dedicated photo studio for passports, places like the local pharmacy in Great Falls, or even the Post Office in larger towns like Shelby or Choteau often offer this service. Plan a short drive if you can’t find a local option to ensure your photo meets all the strict government guidelines.
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.
This is where you bring everything together! For DS-11 applicants (new passports or minors), you *must* submit your application in person. Head to the Conrad Post Office located at 108 S Main St, Conrad, MT 59425, which serves as an official passport acceptance facility. Bring your completed (unsigned DS-11), all original documents (proof of citizenship, ID), and your passport photo. An acceptance agent will review your documents, witness your signature on the DS-11, and seal your application materials for mailing. Call ahead to confirm their passport service hours!
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.
Your application requires two separate payments: the application fee (to the U.S. Department of State, usually a check or money order) and an execution fee (to the acceptance facility, often payable by cash, check, or money order). The acceptance agent will clarify the exact amounts and payment methods. Once everything is submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number. You can then monitor the status of your application online at travel.state.gov. Processing times vary, so plan accordingly and resist the urge to book flights until that new passport arrives in your mailbox!
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 CONRAD
Make sure you have everything needed for CONRAD facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ CONRAD 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 CONRAD’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no CONRAD facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from CONRAD.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in CONRAD. 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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