How to Get a U.S. Passport in Berthoud, CO: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a U.S. Passport in Berthoud, CO

Residents of Berthoud, Colorado, in Larimer County, frequently apply for U.S. passports for international travel like ski trips to Vail or Breckenridge followed by European connections, summer family vacations abroad, business trips via nearby Denver International Airport, or student exchanges near Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Urgent needs arise from last-minute family emergencies, job relocations, or cruise departures. Peak application times hit in spring (March-May) for summer travel and fall/winter (October-December) for holidays, leading to long waits—plan 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited. Common pitfalls include booking appointments too late (check multiple facilities early), passport photo failures from glare/off-center heads/wrong background (use 2x2 inches on white/off-white, no selfies), incomplete minor applications (both parents' consent required), form errors like unsigned DS-11s, or confusing "expedited" (extra fee, faster processing) with "emergency" (life/death abroad or travel in 14 days or less, requiring in-person proof). Use official checklists from travel.state.gov to verify everything upfront—this guide provides step-by-step help from U.S. Department of State sources to minimize rejections and delays [1].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Start by answering these key questions to pick the correct form and method—wrong choices cause 30% of re-applications:

• First-time applicant, name/gender/appearance change, or passport lost/stolen/damaged? Use Form DS-11; must apply in person during business hours. No mailing.
• Eligible for renewal? Use Form DS-82 if your last passport was issued when you were 16+, is undamaged, and issued within the past 15 years. Mail it if U.S.-issued and you're not expediting in person.
• Applying for a child under 16? Always DS-11 in person; both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Common mistake: forgetting evidence of parental relationship (birth certificate).
• Urgent travel? Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks (add 2-3 for mailing); add $60 for expedited (2-3 weeks); for true emergencies (travel ≤14 days), bring itinerary/proof to an agency after starting online.

Decision tip: Download forms from travel.state.gov/forms; print single-sided, black ink. Berthoud locals often qualify for renewals due to repeat travel—double-check eligibility table on the site to avoid in-person trips. Gather docs next based on your category.

First-Time Passport (New Adult Applicant)

Use Form DS-11 if you've never held a U.S. passport or your previous one expired more than 15 years ago—treat it like a brand-new application. Decision guidance: Confirm eligibility by checking your passport's issue and expiration dates; if it expired less than 15 years ago and is undamaged, consider renewal with Form DS-82 (by mail for faster processing if eligible). You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, which are available in the Berthoud area and nearby Colorado communities—book an appointment online via the U.S. Department of State website to avoid long waits.

Practical steps to prepare:

1. Gather proof of U.S. citizenship (original or certified copy of birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport).
2. Bring valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID, or government ID; name must match citizenship docs).
3. Get a passport photo (2x2 inches, color, white background, taken within 6 months—no selfies, uniforms, or glasses).
4. Pay fees (check, money order, or card; separate checks for application fee to State Dept. and execution fee to facility).
5. Complete Form DS-11 but do not sign until instructed in person.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong form (e.g., DS-82 for first-timers delays everything).
• Forgetting original documents (photocopies alone won't work).
• Submitting an improper photo (most rejections happen here—use a professional service).
• Arriving without an appointment (many facilities require them, especially post-pandemic).
• Underestimating processing time (routine: 6-8 weeks; expedited: 2-3 weeks—plan 3+ months ahead for Berthoud business travelers starting international routes or tourists planning first trips abroad).

This process suits most first-time applicants in Berthoud heading overseas for work or leisure [1].

Passport Renewal

Eligible adults (over 16) with an expired or expiring passport (within 5 years of expiration) can use Form DS-82 and mail it directly—no in-person visit needed. Check eligibility: your old passport must be undamaged, issued when you were 16+, and in your current name. This saves time for Colorado's busy professionals renewing before winter ski seasons. If ineligible (e.g., name change, damaged book), treat as first-time with DS-11 [2].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• Lost/Stolen Abroad: Report via Form DS-64, then apply for replacement.
• Lost/Stolen in U.S.: Use DS-64 with DS-82 (if eligible to renew) or DS-11.
• Damaged: Submit with DS-11 for a new one. Frequent flyers in Larimer County should keep digital scans of their passport for quick reporting [1].

New Passport for a Minor (Under 16)

Always DS-11 in person; both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent. Common for exchange students or family vacations—documentation errors cause frequent rejections here [1].

Other Changes

Name change, gender marker update, or corrections use specific forms like DS-5504 (post-issue) or DS-4085 [1].

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application

Use this checklist to gather everything before heading to an acceptance facility. Incomplete applications delay processing, especially during Colorado's high-demand periods like summer and holidays.

1. Confirm Eligibility and Form: Download DS-11, DS-82, etc., from travel.state.gov. Print single-sided; do not sign until instructed [1].
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (long-form preferred from Colorado Vital Records), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Photocopies required. For Berthoud births, order from Larimer County Clerk or state office—allow 1-2 weeks [3][4].
3. Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license (Colorado DMV), military ID, or government ID. Name must match citizenship doc; bring name change docs if needed [1].
4. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo on white/cream background, taken within 6 months. No selfies, uniforms, glare, shadows, or glasses unless medically necessary (side view required). Rejections are common—get at pharmacies [5].
5. Parental Consent (Minors): Both parents' presence or DS-3053 notarized form + ID copy. Divorce decrees or custody papers if applicable [1].
6. Fees: Check exact amounts; cash/check preferred at facilities [6].
7. Completed Form: Fill out but do not sign.
8. Appointment: Book online or call—walk-ins limited during peaks [7].

Double-check against the official checklist [1].

Step-by-Step Checklist: Submitting Your Application

1. Book Appointment: Facilities near Berthoud fill fast—schedule early.
2. Arrive Early: Bring all originals + photocopies (8.5x11 white paper).
3. Present Documents: Agent reviews; sign Form DS-11 in their presence.
4. Pay Fees: Separate checks for application fee (to State Dept.) and execution fee (to facility).
5. Track Status: Get tracking number; check online after 1-2 weeks [8].
6. Expedite if Needed: Add $60 + overnight fee; for 14-day urgent, prove life/death emergency [9].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Berthoud

Berthoud has limited options, so nearby Loveland (10 minutes) or Fort Collins (25 minutes) work best. All are official Passport Acceptance Facilities requiring ID and appointments during busy Colorado seasons.

• Berthoud Post Office: 400 4th St, Berthoud, CO 80513. Phone: (970) 532-6505. Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-4PM (call for passport window). Walk-ins possible but book via usps.com [7].
• Loveland Post Office: 809 N Lincoln Ave, Loveland, CO 80537. Phone: (970) 667-4321. Larger facility, more slots [7].
• Larimer County Clerk & Recorder - Loveland Office: 200 W Oak St, Loveland, CO 80538. Phone: (970) 498-7400. Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM; appointments online. Handles high student volume [10].
• Larimer County Clerk - Fort Collins: 200 W Oak St (main), Fort Collins, CO 80521. Similar services [10].

Use the USPS locator for real-time availability [7]. Avoid unofficial spots to prevent fraud.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Colorado applicants often face returns for photos with headwear shadows, uneven lighting, or wrong dimensions (exactly 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches). Specs: full face front view, neutral expression, even lighting, no glare [5].

Where to Get:

• CVS/Walgreens in Berthoud/Loveland: $15-17, digital preview.
• Walmart Photo Center (Loveland Supercenter).
• Some USPS locations (call ahead).
• AAA Northern Colorado (membership req'd) [11].

Take within 6 months; print on matte paper.

Fees and Payment

Fees change; verify current:

• First-time adult book: $130 application + $35 execution.
• Renewal: $130 (mail).
• Minor: $100 + $35.
• Expedite: +$60 [6].

Pay execution fee by check/money order to facility; application fee by check to "U.S. Department of State." Card options limited [1].

Processing Times and Expediting

Routine: 6-8 weeks door-to-door (mailed from facility). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60, 1-2 day return shipping). Urgent (within 14 days): Life-or-death only—call 1-877-487-2778 with proof [9].

Colorado peaks (spring break, summer, winter holidays) add 2-4 weeks due to volume from tourism/business/students. Do not count on last-minute during highs—plan 10+ weeks ahead. Track at travel.state.gov [8]. No guarantees; high demand causes backlogs [1].

Special Considerations for Minors and Renewals

Minors: Presence of both parents or notarized DS-3053. Colorado custody docs scrutinized—bring court orders. Valid 5 years [1].

Renewals: Mail DS-82 to National Passport Processing Center if eligible. Include old passport—gets canceled. Ineligible? In-person DS-11 [2]. Berthoud mail via USPS.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Berthoud

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for processing. These locations do not issue passports on-site; instead, they verify your identity, review your paperwork, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Berthoud, such facilities can typically be found in the town itself as well as nearby communities like Loveland, Longmont, and Fort Collins. Always verify eligibility and requirements through the official State Department website before visiting, as participation can vary.

When visiting an acceptance facility, expect to bring a completed DS-11 application form (for first-time applicants or renewals not eligible for mail-in), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, passport photos meeting strict specifications (2x2 inches, white background, recent), and payment (checks or money orders preferred for fees). Minors under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians. Agents will administer an oath, seal your application in an envelope, and provide a receipt with tracking info. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant, but allow extra time for queues. Applications are sent via mail, with processing times ranging from 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring break, and holidays, when demand surges for international trips. Mondays and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) tend to be especially crowded due to weekend catch-up and lunch-hour rushes. To minimize waits, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less busy weekdays like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Check facility websites or call ahead for appointment options, which many now offer to streamline visits. Arrive prepared with all documents to avoid rescheduling, and consider mail-in renewals if eligible to bypass lines altogether. Patience is key—delays can occur unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my passport by mail from Berthoud?
Yes, if eligible (undamaged passport issued 15+ years ago? No—must be within 5 years expiration, age 16+ at issue, same name). Use DS-82; mail to P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190 [2].

How do I get a birth certificate for my application?
Order from Larimer County Clerk (Berthoud births) or Colorado Vital Records. Online/mail; expedited available but plan ahead [3][4].

What if I need it for travel in 3 weeks?
Expedite service ($60 + shipping); apply in person. Not for non-emergency—routine/expedited only. Peaks worsen waits [9].

My child is on a school exchange—how fast for minors?
Same times; both parents required. Start early—documentation delays common [1].

Lost my passport while traveling—what now?
Report to embassy abroad or local police in U.S.; file DS-64/DS-11. Emergency passport possible overseas [1].

Can I get photos at the post office?
Some like Loveland USPS offer; call. Otherwise, pharmacies [7].

Peak times in Colorado?
Spring/summer (tourism), winter breaks (skiing)—book appointments 4-6 weeks early [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail
[3]Larimer County Clerk - Vital Records
[4]Colorado Department of Public Health - Vital Records
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[7]USPS Passport Locations
[8]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[9]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service
[10]Larimer County Clerk - Passports
[11]AAA Passport Photos