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Ready to explore beyond Alvin? Getting your U.S. passport is the first exciting step toward international adventures. Don’t let the process intimidate you! We’ve crafted a simple, Alvin-friendly guide to help you navigate each stage, ensuring you’re ready to jet-set with minimal fuss.
Your initial move is figuring out if you’re applying for a brand-new passport or simply renewing an existing one. This distinction is crucial as it determines which form you’ll complete and the specific documents you’ll need. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, reported lost/stolen, or expired more than 15 years ago, you’ll be a first-timer using Form DS-11. However, if you’re an adult with an unexpired or recently expired passport (issued within the last 15 years) that’s still in good condition, you’re likely eligible for a simpler renewal process using Form DS-82. Take a moment to check your old passport’s expiration date and condition before moving forward!
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 essential paperwork that proves your U.S. citizenship and identity. For new applicants, this typically means your original birth certificate (not a copy!) or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport, along with a valid government-issued photo ID like your Texas driver’s license. If you’re renewing, your old passport usually suffices for both proofs. Remember, all citizenship documents must be originals or certified copies. Make sure your identification documents are current and match your full legal name. Don’t forget photocopies of both your citizenship evidence and ID, front and back, as you’ll need them 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.
With your category identified and documents in hand, head over to travel.state.gov to locate and complete the appropriate application form online: DS-11 for new applicants or DS-82 for renewals. Filling it out digitally helps avoid common errors and ensures legibility. Print it out single-sided on plain white paper – no double-sided printing, please! Crucially, for the DS-11 form, *do not sign it* until you are in front of a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature. For the DS-82 renewal form, you can sign it before your visit, but double-check every field for accuracy. Errors can cause significant delays in processing, so take your time and review carefully.
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 needs to meet very specific criteria, so don’t just use a selfie! It must be recent (within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches in size, with a white or off-white background. Look straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are permitted. Luckily, getting a compliant photo in Alvin is straightforward. Local pharmacies like Walgreens (at 100 S Gordon St, Alvin, TX 77511) or CVS (e.g., 200 S Gordon St, Alvin, TX 77511) offer passport photo services that adhere to federal guidelines. It’s a small investment to ensure your application isn’t rejected for a photo mishap.
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 using Form DS-11, you *must* submit your application in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Your go-to spot right here in Alvin is the **Alvin Post Office**, located at 100 S Gordon St, Alvin, TX 77511. It’s highly recommended to call ahead (281-331-3141) and schedule an appointment, as walk-ins might face long waits or be turned away. For your appointment, bring ALL your original documents (proof of citizenship, ID), their photocopies, your completed (but unsigned!) DS-11 form, and your passport photo. Remember, all applicants, including minors, must be present.
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 Post Office appointment, you’ll finalize the payment. Be aware that there are typically two separate fees: the passport application fee, paid directly to the U.S. Department of State (usually by check or money order), and an execution fee, paid to the Post Office (which may accept credit cards, cash, or checks). Once everything is submitted, your documents and application are mailed off. Standard processing can take several weeks, but expedited options are available for an extra fee if you’re in a hurry. After submission, you can track the status of your application online via the State Department’s website. Now, it’s just a matter of waiting for that little blue book to arrive in your Alvin 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 alvin
Make sure you have everything needed for alvin facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ alvin 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 alvin’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Brazoria County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no alvin facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from alvin.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in alvin. 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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