Passport Guide Four Square Mile CO: Steps Facilities Tips

Getting Your Passport in Four Square Mile, CO: A Step-by-Step Guide

Four Square Mile, an unincorporated community in Arapahoe County, Colorado, offers convenient access to Denver International Airport (DIA) and major highways, making it ideal for frequent travelers heading to business hubs in Europe and Asia, ski trips to nearby resorts like Vail or Breckenridge, warm-weather escapes during Colorado's variable winters, or university exchanges at institutions like the University of Denver. However, the area's proximity to DIA drives high passport demand, with acceptance facilities often booking 4-6 weeks out—especially during spring break (March-April), summer vacations (June-August), and holiday rushes (December-February). Plan 8-11 weeks ahead for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited to avoid delays. This guide follows U.S. Department of State guidelines, highlighting common pitfalls like signing forms early, blurry photos, or mismatched names to streamline your process.

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Assess your needs first to pick the correct form and method—wrong choices lead to rejections or extra trips, wasting time in Colorado's busy season. Use the State Department's online wizard (travel.state.gov) for confirmation.

• First-Time Passport: Choose Form DS-11 if you've never had one or your last was issued before age 16. Must apply in person; common mistake: assuming mail works (it doesn't). Decision tip: If over 16 with no prior passport, this is your path—expect 10-13 weeks processing.
• Renewal: Use Form DS-82 by mail if your passport was issued at 16+, is less than 15 years old, undamaged, and in your current name. No in-person needed unless adding visa pages or it's a child's. Mistake to avoid: Renewing in person unnecessarily (slower, costs more). Tip: Check expiration date early; mail from Four Square Mile takes 2-5 days via USPS Priority.
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: File Form DS-64 online/phone (free) to report, then DS-11 (in person, like first-time) or DS-82 (mail if eligible) with loss proof (police report helps but not required). Expedite for $60 extra if urgent. Guidance: If damaged beyond water stains or tears, treat as new; track via USPS for mailed apps.
• Name Change or Data Correction: For changes within 1 year of issuance, mail Form DS-5504 (free) with marriage/divorce docs—no fee or in-person. After 1 year, use DS-11/DS-82 process. Common error: Forgetting supporting docs like court orders. Tip: Verify name matches current ID exactly.
• Child (Under 16) Passport: Always DS-11 in person with both parents/guardians (or sole consent Form DS-3053 notarized). Mistake: One parent showing up without consent—automatic rejection. Decision: Photos must be child-specific (head size 1-1 3/8 inches).

For travel in 14 days, call National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778) before applying—life-or-death emergencies get same-day at agencies, but routine urgent differs. Local peaks near DIA mean booking ASAP.

Step-by-Step Checklist for In-Person Applications (DS-11)

Perfect for first-time, child, or non-renewable replacements. Prep all items first—facilities reject incompletes, and Colorado spots fill fast (book via each facility's site or PassportAppointmentScheduler.gov). Aim for off-peak weekdays.

1. Complete Form DS-11: Download from travel.state.gov; fill online or print black ink. Do not sign until instructed by agent (top mistake—signing early voids it). Include all travel plans if urgent. Tip: Double-check name spelling against ID; use legal name only.
2. Get 2 Passport Photos: 2x2 inches, color, white background, taken in last 6 months at pharmacies/CVS/Walgreens (common locally). Head 1-1 3/8 inches, eyes open/neutral expression, no glasses/selfies. Error: Glare/shadows or smiling—50% rejections. Guidance: Pay $15-20; facilities don't take photos.
3. Gather Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (raised seal), naturalization certificate, or prior undamaged passport. Photocopy front/back. Mistake: Certified copies only (hospital ones invalid). Tip: Order replacement birth cert from Arapahoe County Vital Records early if lost (3-5 weeks).
4. Provide Photo ID: Valid driver's license, military ID, or passport card. Show + photocopy. Common pitfall: Expired ID (must be current). If no ID, secondary proofs like bills/utility statements (get witness statement).
5. Parental Consent (for Kids Under 16): Both parents appear, or one with DS-3053 (notarized) from absent parent. Stepparent/divorced? Extra docs. Tip: Notarizations available at banks/UPS stores; plan 30-min buffer.
6. Calculate and Prepare Fees: Checkbook/money order (exact amount)—$130 adult/$100 child application + $35 execution (facility fee) + $60 expedite (optional). Credit cards sometimes accepted. Guidance: Use fee calculator on State site; mail payment separate if hybrid process.
7. Book Appointment: Search "passport acceptance facility" + "Arapahoe County" on iafdb.travel.state.gov. Slots vanish—book 4+ weeks early, have backups. Walk-ins rare post-COVID.
8. Attend Appointment: Arrive 15 mins early with everything organized in folder. Agent witnesses signature, collects docs. Processing: 6-8 weeks routine, 2-3 expedite. Track online after 5-7 days.

Post-submission, use USPS Informed Delivery for mail tracking. If delayed >4 weeks routine, contact via goldform portal. Renew early (9 months before expiration) to skip lines next time. Safe travels from Four Square Mile!

Form DS-11**: Download, fill by hand (black ink, no signing until instructed). Do not use for renewals.[1] Download DS-11 2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original + photocopy (front/back on standard 8.5x11 paper). Options: certified U.S. birth certificate (raised seal), naturalization certificate, previous undamaged passport. Colorado birth certificates from CDPHE Vital Records.[4] 3. Proof of Identity: Original + photocopy. Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Arapahoe County residents can get IDs at the County Clerk.[5] 4. Passport Photo: One 2x2 inch color photo taken within 6 months, white/cream/off-white background, no glasses/headwear unless religious/medical (doctor's note). Common rejections: shadows under eyes/nose, glare, wrong size.[6] 5. Parental Consent (Minors Under 16): Both parents/guardians appear, or one with Form DS-3053 notarized consent + ID photocopy from absent parent.[1] 6. Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee ($130 adult/$100 child book); execution fee ($35) to facility. Expedited +$60.[7] Total adult first-time: ~$195. 7. Book Appointment: Facilities verify identity and witness signature—walk-ins rare. 8. Attend Appointment: Arrive early with all items. Sign DS-11 there. 9. Track Status: Online after 7-10 days.[8]

Print two photocopies of citizenship/identity docs per applicant. For name changes post-marriage, include certified marriage certificate.

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections.[6] Specs from the State Department:

• 2x2 inches (51x51mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Full face, neutral expression, eyes open.
• Even lighting: no shadows, glare; plain background.
• Recent (6 months), color print.

Local options in Four Square Mile/Arapahoe:

• USPS at Centennial Post Office (7600 S Pennsylvania St, Centennial, CO—nearby): $15.[9]
• CVS/Walgreens: Self-service kiosks, check dimensions.
• Avoid selfies/home prints—digital submissions not accepted at facilities.[6]

Pro tip: Take extras; facilities don't provide.

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Four Square Mile

Four Square Mile has no facility inside, but Arapahoe County options are close (5-15 min drive). Book via website/phone—high demand, especially pre-summer/winter.

Prince St, Littleton, CO 80120 (15 min) | 303-649-6351 | M-F 8am-4:30pm (appt req.) | Handles DS-11, photos nearby.[5] | | Centennial Post Office | 7600 S Pennsylvania St, Centennial, CO 80122 (5 min) | 303-730-0501 | M-F 9am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm (appt for passports) | USPS standard, execution fee.[9] | | Southglen Post Office (Greenwood Village) | 6500 S Quebec St #100, Centennial, CO 80111 (10 min) | 303-779-8822 | M-F 9am-5pm (appt) | Busy, book early.[9] | | Aurora City Clerk | 15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012 (20 min) | 303-739-6913 | By appt. | Alternative if Arapahoe full.[10] |

Use the State Department's locator for real-time slots: Passport Acceptance Facility Search.[11] Peak seasons: Book 4-6 weeks ahead.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard: 6-8 weeks (mail time included). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Urgent (<14 days): Life-or-death only, call 1-877-487-2778.[3]

No guarantees—peaks like summer add delays. Colorado's DIA traffic spikes applications 20-30% seasonally. Avoid relying on last-minute; apply 10+ weeks early.[1] Track at Passport Status.[8]

Renewals by Mail (DS-82): Simpler for Eligible Applicants

If eligible (passport <15 years old, issued at 16+, your name):

1. Complete DS-82.[1] Download DS-82
2. Include old passport, photo, fees ($130 adult).
3. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (expedited box separate).[7] No local trip needed—ideal for Four Square Mile's busy professionals.

Special Considerations for Minors and Colorado Residents

Children under 16 need both parents. Colorado vital records delays (2-4 weeks for birth certs) hit hard—order early from CDPHE ($20).[4] Students: Campus mail-in renewals possible.

Lost passports abroad? Contact U.S. Embassy; replacement upon return.[12]

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Limited Appointments: Facilities near DIA book months out in peaks. Check multiple daily; consider Littleton/Aurora.
• Expedited vs. Urgent Confusion: Expedited speeds processing (not shipping); <14 days needs proof of travel (itinerary) + call.[3]
• Photo Rejections: 40% local is

sues from poor lighting. Use pro service.

• Docs for Minors: Absent parent DS-3053 must be notarized recently.[1]
• Renewal Mistakes: Using DS-11 for eligible renewal wastes $35 fee.
• Peak Season Delays: Spring/summer business/tourism, winter breaks overwhelm—plan ahead.

FAQs

How far in advance should I apply for a passport in Four Square Mile?
Apply 10-13 weeks before travel, especially in peak seasons. Standard processing is 6-8 weeks, but Colorado's high volume near DIA can extend it.[1]

Can I get a passport photo at the acceptance facility?
Some like USPS Centennial offer them for $15, but call ahead. Better to arrive prepared to avoid rescheduling.[9][6]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60) cuts to 2-3 weeks for any travel. Urgent (<14 days) requires itinerary proof and NPIC contact; not guaranteed.[3]

Do I need an appointment at Arapahoe County Clerk?
Yes, book online/phone. Walk-ins not accepted for passports.[5]

How do I replace a lost passport?
Submit DS-64 online/phone, then DS-11/DS-82 with police report if domestic. Fees apply.[2]

Can Colorado birth certificates be expedited?
Yes, same-day at CDPHE Denver office ($30 extra), but plan for mail delays otherwise.[4]

Is passport renewal online available?
Limited online renewal for eligible adults via MyTravelGov—no for first-timers or children.[13]

What if my travel is for a family emergency?
Life-or-death emergencies qualify for fastest service; provide death certificate/statement. Call 1-877-487-2778.[3]

Final Tips

Double-check docs against the checklist. Colorado's travel patterns mean proactive planning prevents stress. For status issues, call 1-877-487-2778 (M-F 8am-10pm ET).[3]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply for a Passport
[2]U.S. Department of State - Lost or Stolen Passport
[3]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service
[4]Colorado Department of Public Health - Vital Records
[5]Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder - Passports
[6][U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements](https://tra

[7] U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html)
Calculate exact costs for new passports, renewals, or expedites—adults pay $130 application + $35 execution fee at local facilities; kids under 16 are $100 + $35. Common mistake: underestimating add-ons like photos ($15–20 locally) or shipping ($20+). Decision guide: Use fee calculator first; pay by check/money order at acceptance facilities near Four Square Mile.

[8] U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status (https://passportstatus.state.gov/)
Track processing (6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 expedited). Tip: Wait 5–7 days post-submission before checking; have tracking # ready. Common mistake: checking too early or using wrong details.

[9] USPS - Passport Services (https://www.usps.com/international/passports.htm)
Find nearby post offices offering passport services—ideal for Four Square Mile residents as many handle first-time apps. Decision guide: Choose if convenient; they charge $35 execution fee but no appointment needed at most. Verify hours/services online.

[10] City of Aurora - Passport Services (https://www.auroragov.org/city_clerk/passport_services)
Local option for nearby residents; check for walk-ins or appointments. Practical tip: Combine with DMV visits if needed. Common mistake: assuming all locations offer photos—confirm specifics.

[11] U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search (https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/)
Search "Four Square Mile, CO" or nearby ZIPs for post offices, clerks, or libraries. Decision guide: Prioritize those noting "by appointment" for faster service; aim for 20–30 min drive. Common mistake: picking distant facilities—80%+ of routine apps processed here.

[12] U.S. Department of State - Passports Abroad (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies/lost-stolen-passport-abroad.html)
For emergencies overseas (replacements via embassies). Tip for CO travelers: Report theft immediately; carry color copy. Not for routine use.

[13] U.S. Department of State - Online Renewal (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/renew-online.html)
Renew if eligible (undamaged passport <15 yrs old, issued age 16+, sig in place). Decision guide: Skip if name/gender changed or first-time—use local facility instead. Saves $35 execution fee; 6–8 weeks processing. Common mistake: trying online for ineligible apps.