Before you even think about forms, pause and consider your situation. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport? That means you’ll typically need to use the DS-11 form. Perhaps you’re renewing an expired passport, or one that’s about to expire? If it’s less than 15 years old and you were at least 16 when it was issued, the DS-82 form is usually your friend. Minors, those under 16, always require a DS-11 and specific parental consent. Knowing this initial detail will streamline your entire journey, ensuring you collect the correct paperwork and understand which submission rules apply to you. Take a moment to confirm your scenario on the official U.S. Department of State website.

Once you’ve nailed down whether you’re a fresh applicant or a renewer, it’s time to secure the appropriate form. If you’re a first-time applicant or processing for a minor, you’ll need the DS-11. The crucial thing here? *Do not sign it!* You’ll sign the DS-11 in front of a passport acceptance agent. For renewals, grab the DS-82 form; this one you *can* sign at home. You can find both forms readily available for download and printing on the U.S. Department of State’s official website, or sometimes pick them up pre-printed at a local passport acceptance facility like the SeaTac Post Office. Having this paperwork in hand is your next big move.

This step is all about proof! You’ll need to demonstrate both your U.S. citizenship and your identity. For citizenship, dig out your original birth certificate (with a raised seal), your previous undamaged passport, or your naturalization certificate. For identity, a valid, government-issued photo ID like your Washington State driver’s license works perfectly. Remember, for the DS-11, you’ll generally need the *original* documents, not just copies. While you should bring copies of both sides of your ID and citizenship evidence, the acceptance agent *must* see the originals. Missing a critical document can halt your application right there, so double-check everything meticulously before heading out.

Your photo is a vital component of your application, and there are specific rules to follow. It needs to be current (taken within the last six months), in color, and 2×2 inches in size. Ensure you have a plain white or off-white background, a neutral facial expression (no big smiles!), and both eyes open. Absolutely no glasses, hats, or uniforms are permitted unless for religious reasons. For convenience in SeaTac, many local pharmacies like Rite Aid or Walgreens, as well as several UPS Store locations in the area, offer compliant passport photo services. They can usually get you set up quickly and ensure your photo meets all the official requirements, preventing any delays.

Now that your forms are filled (but unsigned if DS-11) and your documents are ready, it’s time to submit everything. Most new passport applications (DS-11) require an in-person visit to an official passport acceptance facility. In SeaTac, the United States Post Office at 20045 19th Ave S is your primary local option. It’s wise to call ahead or check their specific passport service hours and whether an appointment is necessary; many facilities require one. Alternatively, you might find other options in neighboring Federal Way or Kent if SeaTac’s facility has limited availability. Bring all your original documents, your unsigned DS-11, and your crisp passport photo.

The final step at the facility is paying the necessary fees. There are typically two separate payments: one for the passport application itself (payable to the U.S. Department of State, usually by check or money order) and an execution fee for the acceptance facility (often payable directly to them, sometimes allowing cards or cash). Confirm acceptable payment methods with your chosen facility beforehand. Once paid, your application is officially submitted! You’ll receive a tracking number or receipt. Standard processing times can vary, so check the State Department’s website for current estimates. Then, it’s a waiting game, but you can track your application’s progress online, eagerly anticipating your new passport’s arrival.