Expert expedited service from $147 — Processing in as fast as 3 days with zero errors guaranteed
Ask me anything about getting your passport in bellmore — instant expert answers
We’ll handle everything from your bellmore home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
Based on verified reports from bellmore applicants (last updated: )
Planning a trip abroad from Bellmore? Getting your passport might seem like a maze, but it’s totally manageable! This straightforward guide will help you navigate the process, from figuring out your application type to knowing exactly where to go right here in Nassau County. Let’s get you ready for your next international adventure!
When you’re ready to embark on international adventures, your first move is to determine if you’re a first-time applicant or simply need to update an expired or soon-to-expire travel document. If you’ve never held a U.S. passport, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll be completing Form DS-11. This requires an in-person appointment. For those who can renew by mail (if your passport is less than 15 years old, undamaged, and you were 16 or older when issued), you’ll use Form DS-82. Knowing this upfront dictates which forms and documents you’ll need to round up, making the subsequent steps much clearer.
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 up, it’s a documentation scavenger hunt! For a brand-new passport (DS-11), you absolutely need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate (the long-form, government-issued one with the raised seal, not a hospital copy!) or a previous, undamaged passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID, like your New York State driver’s license or state ID. If you’re renewing (DS-82), your previous passport is your primary proof. Make photocopies of the front and back of your photo ID, and also of your citizenship document – you’ll need these along with the originals for your appointment.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Your passport photo isn’t just any selfie; it must meet strict government criteria. Think 2×2 inches, color, a plain white or off-white background, and taken within the last six months. No hats, no glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), and a neutral facial expression – no big smiles! While the Bellmore Post Office doesn’t offer photo services, you can easily get compliant photos at local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens right in Bellmore, or nearby stores in Merrick or Wantagh. Just tell them it’s for a U.S. passport, and they’ll handle the specifics, ensuring it meets all requirements.
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.
Now for the paperwork! Head over to the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov) to find and either fill out online and print, or print blank and complete by hand, Form DS-11 (new applications) or DS-82 (renewals). Filling it out digitally helps avoid legibility issues. Be meticulous; every detail must be accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. For DS-11 applicants, a crucial reminder: DO NOT sign the application form until you are instructed to do so by the acceptance agent at your appointment. This is vital for its validity and proper processing.
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), an in-person visit to a passport acceptance facility is mandatory. While the Bellmore Post Office on Bellmore Ave does not process passport applications, don’t fret! Many other Post Offices in neighboring communities do. Consider booking an appointment at the Merrick Post Office (1700 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY), Wantagh Post Office (3320 Sunrise Hwy, Wantagh, NY), or the Hempstead Post Office (200 Fulton Ave, Hempstead, NY). Check their websites or call ahead, as appointments are often required and fill up fast. Bring all your original documents, copies, passport photo, and the unsigned DS-11 form.
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 acceptance facility appointment, you’ll pay two separate fees. The application fee, payable to the “U.S. Department of State,” must typically be by check or money order – they won’t accept credit cards for this part. The second fee is the execution fee, paid directly to the acceptance facility (e.g., the Post Office), which is often payable by cash, check, money order, or sometimes credit/debit card. Once both fees are settled and the agent witnesses your signature (for DS-11), your application packet will be sealed and mailed off. You can track its progress online via the State Department’s website, then simply await your new passport!
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 bellmore
Make sure you have everything needed for bellmore facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ bellmore 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 bellmore’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Nassau County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no bellmore facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from bellmore.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in bellmore. 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
View detailed information for each location
Honest comparison to help bellmore residents choose the right option
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
Stay informed with our latest guides and tips
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
Read More →
Discover which destinations welcome U.S. passport holders without additional visa requirements.
Read More →
A comprehensive guide to different visa categories and when you might need them for international travel.
Read More →