Are you a first-time applicant or renewing an existing passport? First-time adult applicants need to apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. If you’re 16 or older and your previous passport was issued within the last 15 years, you can likely renew by mail. Bring proof of citizenship like a birth certificate and valid government ID.

Collect your proof of citizenship (original birth certificate or naturalization document), a valid photo ID, and a recent passport photo. Sunnyvale residents can get passport photos at local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens. Ensure your photo meets strict federal guidelines: 2×2 inches, color, taken within the last 6 months.

Fill out Form DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals. Be precise and match information exactly as it appears on your supporting documents. Many Sunnyvale residents complete this form online and print, but you’ll still need to submit in person for first-time applications.

Visit the Sunnyvale Town Hall or a nearby Dallas County passport acceptance location. Bring all original documents, don’t sign the form until instructed, and be prepared to pay fees. Processing times vary, so plan ahead if you have upcoming travel.

Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service runs 3-5 weeks. For urgent travel, you can request same-day to 2-week processing at additional cost. Sunnyvale’s proximity to Dallas means you have multiple passport agency options nearby.

Use the US Department of State’s online tracking system to monitor your passport status. Most Sunnyvale applicants receive email updates. Keep your receipt and tracking number handy, and consider setting up text or email alerts for status changes.