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Embarking on international adventures starts with a valid passport! If you’re in Redmond, WA, securing this vital travel document is a straightforward process when you know the steps. This guide will walk you through everything, from figuring out your application type to finding the perfect local spot for submission, ensuring your journey begins smoothly and efficiently.
Your initial task is to identify whether you’re applying for your very first U.S. passport, renewing an expired or expiring one, or perhaps replacing a lost or stolen document. This crucial decision dictates which application form you’ll need and whether an acceptance agent must witness your signature. New applicants, minors, and those replacing lost passports typically use Form DS-11, requiring an in-person visit. If you’re simply updating an eligible passport, Form DS-82 is your friend, often allowing submission by mail. Always confirm your eligibility for renewal to save yourself an unnecessary trip; passports issued when you were under 16 or more than 15 years ago usually necessitate a new application process.
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 for the treasure hunt! You’ll need original evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as your official birth certificate (make sure it has a raised seal!), a previous undamaged passport, or a naturalization certificate. Don’t forget your primary identification, like your current Washington State driver’s license or state ID card. Crucially, you’ll also need a clear photocopy of *both the front and back* of your citizenship document and your ID. These copies must be on plain white paper, 8.5 x 11 inches, with no alterations. Keep all originals pristine for your application appointment; they will be returned to you.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
A crisp, compliant passport photo is non-negotiable. It must be a recent, color photo, 2×2 inches in size, taken against a plain white or off-white background. No smiles, no glasses, and your full face must be visible. Many local spots in Redmond can assist you with this specific requirement. Consider popping into the CVS or Walgreens on Redmond Way, the UPS Store in Bella Bottega, or even your local AAA branch if you’re a member. They typically have the necessary setup and staff who understand the strict guidelines, ensuring your photo doesn’t cause a rejection.
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.
Head over to the official Department of State website to access either Form DS-11 (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals). It’s highly recommended to fill out the form online and print it, as this minimizes errors and ensures legibility. Remember, if you’re using Form DS-11, **DO NOT SIGN IT** until instructed by a passport acceptance agent. For DS-82, you can sign it at home. Double-check every single field for accuracy; mistakes can cause significant delays. An incorrectly filled form is a common reason for application setbacks, so take your time and review thoroughly before proceeding.
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 or anyone needing to use Form DS-11, you must present your application in person to an authorized passport acceptance facility. Good news for Redmond residents: your primary local option is the **Redmond Post Office** at 16120 NE 87th St. It’s always wise to check their specific hours for passport services and whether appointments are required, as walk-in availability can vary significantly. Other nearby facilities in Bellevue or Kirkland might also be options if Redmond’s schedule doesn’t align with yours. If renewing via DS-82, you’ll simply mail your application directly to the address provided on the 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.
When it’s time for your in-person appointment, bring all your essential documents: the unsigned DS-11 form, your original proof of citizenship and ID, photocopies of both, and your passport photo. Be ready to pay the application fee and an execution fee, typically with a check or money order. Credit cards are often not accepted for the application fee itself, so confirm accepted payment methods beforehand. The acceptance agent will review everything, witness your signature, and seal your documents for mailing. Afterwards, keep an eye on the processing times and remember to track your application status online using the reference number provided.
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 redmond
Make sure you have everything needed for redmond facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ redmond 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 redmond’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in King County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no redmond facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from redmond.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in redmond. 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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