Englewood, CO Passport Guide: Apply, Renew, Replace

Getting a Passport in Englewood, CO

Englewood, located in Arapahoe County, Colorado, serves a diverse community with frequent international travel needs. Residents often travel for business through Denver International Airport, a major hub, or for tourism to destinations like Europe and Mexico. Seasonal peaks occur during spring and summer vacations, as well as winter breaks for skiing trips abroad. Students and exchange programs add to the demand, alongside urgent scenarios like last-minute family emergencies or job relocations. High demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, so planning ahead is essential, especially avoiding reliance on last-minute processing during these busy periods [1].

This guide walks you through every step to apply for, renew, or replace a U.S. passport from Englewood. It draws directly from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to ensure accuracy. Whether you're a first-time applicant, renewing an eligible passport, or replacing a lost one, follow the structured process below to minimize common pitfalls like photo rejections or incomplete forms.

Determine What Type of Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right service prevents delays and extra trips. Colorado applicants face confusion here, especially with renewals—many mistakenly use the in-person form when eligible for mail-in renewal.

First-Time Passport

If you're applying for your first U.S. passport—or if your previous one was issued before age 16, is damaged beyond reasonable use (e.g., water damage, torn pages, or unreadable info), or was issued more than 15 years ago—you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11 [2]. This cannot be done by mail, online, or renewal.

Quick Decision Guide

• Yes, apply as new: No prior passport; old passport from childhood (under 16); passport >15 years old; or unusable damage.
• No, consider renewal: Valid passport issued at 16+, within 15 years, undamaged—use Form DS-10 by mail or online if eligible.
• Unsure? Check issue date, your age at issuance, and condition against State Department rules.

Practical Steps for Englewood, CO

1. Find a facility: Use the official State Department locator (travel.state.gov) for "Englewood, CO" or nearby ZIPs (80110-80113). Common local spots include post offices, public libraries, and county/municipal offices—many require appointments via their websites or phone.
2. Prepare documents (bring originals, no photocopies):
   • Completed but unsigned DS-11 (print single-sided).
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate).
   • Valid photo ID (e.g., driver's license).
   • Two passport photos (2x2", recent, specific rules—many facilities offer photo service).
   • Fees (checkbook/money order for application fee; cash/card for execution fee).
3. Schedule ahead: Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee); book early, especially post-holidays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signing DS-11 early (voids it—sign only in front of agent).
• Using expired ID or non-certified birth certificates.
• No appointment (many Englewood-area facilities limit walk-ins).
• Wrong photo specs (white background, no selfies—use pharmacies like Walgreens if needed).
• Forgetting name change proof (e.g., marriage certificate) if applicable.

Apply early—processing times spike in peak seasons (summer, holidays). Track status online after submission.

Passport Renewal

You can renew by mail if:

• Your passport is undamaged.
• Issued when you were 16 or older.
• Issued within the last 15 years.
• Not reported lost/stolen.

Use Form DS-82. Colorado residents with expiring passports often overlook this during travel planning for summer trips [2].

Passport Replacement

If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged in Englewood, CO:

1. Report it immediately online: Visit travel.state.gov and use the lost/stolen passport form first—this invalidates it worldwide and protects against identity theft. Common mistake: Skipping this, leaving your passport usable by others; do it ASAP, even before applying for replacement.

2. Apply in person for replacement: Use Form DS-11 at a local passport acceptance facility (post offices, county clerks, or libraries in the Denver metro area)—treat it exactly like a first-time application. You cannot mail DS-11 or use the DS-82 renewal form.

   Required items (bring originals + photocopies):

   • Completed (unsigned) DS-11.
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., original birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization).
   • Valid photo ID (e.g., driver's license; bring a second ID if names don't match citizenship docs).
   • One 2x2-inch passport photo (taken within 6 months, white background, no glasses/selfies—many pharmacies offer this).
   • Fees (check travel.state.gov for current CO rates: ~$130 application fee + $35 execution fee; pay by check/money order for application).

3. Decision guidance:

   Need	Processing Time	Best Option	Notes
   Routine	6-8 weeks	Local acceptance facility (search usps.com or travel.state.gov for "near Englewood, CO")	No appointment needed; walk-in OK but call ahead.
   Expedited	2-3 weeks (+$60 fee)	Same local facility	Add at application; track online.
   Urgent (travel <14 days)	Same/next day possible	Regional passport agency	Requires confirmed flight itinerary; book appointment via travel.state.gov (limited slots).

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Assuming renewal rules apply (DS-82 only for undamaged passports signed <15 years ago, issued at age 16+).
• Bringing expired/low-quality photos or forgetting citizenship originals (delays everything).
• Paying fees in cash/card (most facilities require check/money order for app fee).
• Not tracking status (use email/text alerts on application).

Start early—Colorado facilities can get busy; allow extra time for mailed docs to arrive.

Additional Passports (e.g., for Children or Expedited)

Minors under 16 always require in-person applications with both parents. For urgent travel within 14 days, seek expedited service—note the distinction from "urgent" processing, which is separate [4].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Englewood

Englewood lacks a passport agency (those are for life-or-death emergencies within 14 days, like in Denver). Use acceptance facilities for routine applications. Book appointments early—Arapahoe County spots fill quickly due to seasonal travel [5].

Key local options:

• Englewood Post Office (South Broadway Station): 3960 S Broadway, Englewood, CO 80113. Offers photos onsite. Call (303) 761-7535 or book via usps.com [6].
• Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder - Centennial Office: 5334 S Kenton Way, Centennial, CO 80111 (10-min drive). Fees deposited via check. Appointments required [7].
• Arapahoe County Clerk - Littleton Office: 10795 W 50th Ave, Littleton, CO 80165 (15-min drive). Handles first-time and minors [7].
• Cherry Creek Post Office: 7750 S Broadway, Littleton, CO 80122 (nearby). Photos available [6].

Search for more: Use the USPS locator [8]. Facilities verify identity, witness signatures, and collect $35 execution fees (check or money order only—no cash/cards at most).

Required Documents and Forms

Gather everything before your appointment to avoid rejections, a top challenge in high-volume areas like Arapahoe County.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original + Photocopy)

• U.S. birth certificate (raised seal, from Colorado Vital Records if needed: $20+ fee) [9].
• Naturalization Certificate.
• Previous passport (if renewing, submit it).

Photocopy on standard 8.5x11 paper, front/back.

Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy)

• Driver's license (Colorado DMV issues these) [10].
• Military ID or government employee ID.

Name must match exactly—no nicknames.

For Minors Under 16

• Both parents' IDs and presence (or notarized consent Form DS-3053).
• Parents' citizenship proof.
• Court orders if sole custody.

Incomplete minor docs cause 30% of rejections statewide [2].

Forms

Download from travel.state.gov:

• DS-11 (first-time/replacement): Do not sign until instructed.
• DS-82 (renewal): Sign and date.
• DS-64 (lost/stolen report) [3].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos fail 25% of the time due to shadows, glare, or wrong size—exacerbated by home printers in Englewood's variable lighting [11].

Requirements [11]:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• White/cream background, no shadows/glare.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses/headwear (unless religious/medical).
• Color photo <6 months old.

Get at USPS locations ($15-17) or Walmart (Englewood Supercenter: 601 Englewood Pkwy). Specs: PDF guide at travel.state.gov [11].

Step-by-Step Application Checklist

Follow this checklist for in-person applications (first-time, replacement, minors). Print and check off.

1. Determine eligibility: Use table above. Download correct form(s) [2].
2. Gather documents: Citizenship proof (original + copy), ID (original + copy), photos (2 identical), prior passport if applicable.
3. Complete form: Fill DS-11/DS-64 but do not sign DS-11.
4. Book appointment: Call facility or use online scheduler [6][7]. Aim 6-8 weeks before travel.
5. Calculate fees (2024 rates; check for updates):

   Applicant Age	Application Fee (to State Dept)	Execution Fee	Total (Book/Card)
   Adult (16+)	$130	$35	$165
   Minor (<16)	$100	$35	$135
   Execution fee to facility; application fee via check/money order to "U.S. Department of State."

6. Attend appointment: Bring all items. Sign DS-11 in front of agent. Get receipt.
7. Track status: Online at travel.state.gov/passport-status [12].

For renewals: Mail DS-82, passport, photo, fee ($130 adult check to "U.S. Department of State") to address on form. Use USPS Priority ($20+ tracking).

Expedited and Urgent Services

Standard processing: 6-8 weeks (routine); no guarantees during Colorado's peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) [13].

• Expedited (2-3 weeks): Add $60 at acceptance or mail. Includes 1-2 day return shipping ($21.36).
• Urgent (within 14 days): Life-or-death only at passport agencies (Denver: 303-331-1500, appointment required) [4]. Business trips don't qualify—plan ahead.

Common error: Confusing expedited with urgent. High demand means even expedited can slip during student exchange rushes [13].

Processing Times and Planning Tips

Factors delaying: Peaks from DIA's international flights, incomplete apps. Track weekly [12]. Colorado Vital Records rush birth certificates ($30 expedited) if needed [9].

Renewal-Specific Checklist

For mail-in renewals (DS-82 eligible):

1. Verify eligibility: Passport <15 years old, age 16+ at issue, undamaged [2].
2. Prepare packet: Signed DS-82, current passport, 1 photo, $130 check (adult).
3. Mail securely: USPS Priority Express to PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 [2].
4. Add expedited?: Include $60 fee, Form DS-70 for 1-2 day return.
5. Track: 7-10 days post-mailing [12].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Englewood

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to receive and review passport applications from U.S. citizens. These include common public venues such as post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Englewood, you'll find several such facilities within the local area and nearby towns, offering convenient options for residents and visitors alike. These sites do not process passports on-site; instead, staff verify your identity, witness your signature, collect fees, and forward the sealed application to a regional passport agency for final processing, which can take several weeks.

When visiting an acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants or renewals not eligible for mail-in), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting State Department specifications, and payment for application and execution fees (typically via check or money order). Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Expect a short wait for staff assistance, document review, and oath administration. Not all locations handle every type of application, so confirm eligibility via the official U.S. Department of State website's locator tool before heading out.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, on Mondays following weekends, and mid-day hours around lunch. These patterns can vary by location and unforeseen events, so approach with caution and flexibility.

To plan effectively, use the State Department's online locator to check for appointment-based services, which many facilities now offer to reduce wait times. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding seasonal rushes. Prepare all documents meticulously in advance, arrive with extras like additional photos, and monitor processing times on the official website, as expedited services may require a passport agency visit instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Englewood?
No, acceptance facilities don't issue passports. Nearest agency is Denver (for qualifying urgencies only) [4].

What if my child is traveling internationally in 3 weeks?
Apply in person ASAP, request expedited ($60 extra). Both parents needed; no guarantees during peaks [13].

My passport was issued 14 years ago—can I renew by mail?
Yes, if other criteria met (age 16+ at issue). Use DS-82 [2].

Where do I get a birth certificate in Arapahoe County?
Order from Colorado Department of Public Health ($13.50+), not county clerk. Expedite for $25 [9].

Photos were rejected—what now?
Get new ones meeting exact specs. USPS retakes often free if recent [11].

Lost my passport abroad—now back in Englewood?
Report via DS-64, apply in person with police report if available [3].

How much for a minor's passport?
$100 application + $35 execution = $135 base. Expedite extra [2].

Can I pay fees with credit card?
Application fee: Check/money order only. Some facilities take cards for execution/photos [6].

Sources

[1]Travel.State.Gov - Passports
[2]Apply for First-Time or Replacement Passport
[3]Report Lost/Stolen Passport
[4]Passport Agencies
[5]Denver Passport Agency
[6]USPS Passport Services
[7]Arapahoe County Clerk Passports
[8]USPS Location Finder
[9]Colorado Vital Records
[10]Colorado DMV
[11]Passport Photo Requirements
[12]Check Application Status
[13]Processing Times