Johnstown, CO Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewal, Replacement

Getting a Passport in Johnstown, CO

If you're in Johnstown, Colorado, or nearby in Weld County, applying for a U.S. passport can feel overwhelming, especially with Colorado's busy travel scene. Residents here often head abroad for business trips to Europe or Asia, family vacations to Mexico or the Caribbean, and seasonal getaways—think summer hikes in the Rockies drawing tourists from afar or winter ski trips to resorts that spike demand during school breaks. College students from nearby Colorado State University in Fort Collins and exchange programs add to the mix, alongside urgent last-minute trips for family emergencies or surprise opportunities. High demand means acceptance facilities book up fast, particularly in spring, summer, and winter holidays, so planning ahead is key.[1]

This guide walks you through every step, addressing common hurdles like scarce appointments, photo rejections from glare or wrong sizes, missing minor documents, and mix-ups between renewals and new applications. We'll help you pick the right service, gather docs without gaps, and navigate local options—no government affiliation here, just practical advice backed by official sources.

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing correctly saves time and avoids rejections. Colorado applicants often confuse renewals with new apps, leading to unnecessary in-person visits.

First-Time Passport

If you're applying for your first U.S. passport in the Johnstown, CO area—whether as an adult or minor who's never had one—you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. This also applies if your prior passport was issued before age 16, is damaged beyond use (e.g., water damage, torn pages, or unreadable info), or was issued more than 15 years ago.[2]

Quick Decision Checklist

• Never had a passport? Yes → First-time, in-person only.
• Previous passport before age 16? Yes → First-time.
• Passport damaged or unreadable? Yes → First-time (even if recent).
• Issued 15+ years ago? Yes → First-time.
• All "no"? → You may qualify for renewal by mail (see Renewal section).

Practical Steps for Johnstown Area

1. Search the U.S. Department of State's website (travel.state.gov) for "passport acceptance facilities" near Johnstown, CO—common spots include post offices, libraries, and clerk offices.
2. Call ahead: Confirm hours, appointment needs (many require them), wait times, and if they handle minors (extra docs required).
3. Bring: Completed DS-11 form (unsigned until in person), proof of citizenship (birth certificate/original), ID, photo (2x2", taken at facility if offered), and fees (check/money order; credit often extra).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mailing DS-11: Always rejected—requires in-person ID verification and oath.
• Wrong facility: Not all post offices do passports; verify they accept first-timers.
• Incomplete docs: Forgetting secondary ID (e.g., driver's license + Social Security card) delays everything—aim to over-prepare.
• Photos: DIY photos often fail specs (white background, exact size); use facility service to save hassle.

Book early—Johnstown-area spots fill up fast, especially pre-travel seasons. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee).

Passport Renewal

Most adults (16+) with an undamaged passport issued within the last 15 years can renew by mail—no in-person needed. Eligibility: Your old passport is in your possession, was issued at age 16+, and not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82. Not eligible? Apply as first-time.[2] Colorado renewals peak seasonally, so mail early.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport (Replacement)

If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, first report it immediately using Form DS-64 (free online at travel.state.gov or by mail)—this is required for replacement and protects against identity theft. Provide details like passport number, issue date, and circumstances; file a police report if stolen for added proof (common in Colorado theft cases). If abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate urgently for an emergency passport.

For Johnstown, CO residents, treat replacement as a new first-time application—you cannot renew by mail. Book an in-person appointment at a local passport acceptance facility (check travel.state.gov for availability; expect 4-6 weeks processing standard, longer in peak seasons like summer). Always include your completed DS-64 with the application.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping DS-64: Apps get rejected outright.
• No police report for theft: Not always mandatory but strengthens urgent claims.
• Assuming renewal eligibility: Lost/damaged passports disqualify mail renewal.
• Poor photos: Use compliant 2x2" color photos taken within 6 months (avoid selfies; local pharmacies often help).

Rush options for upcoming travel:

• Expedited service (+$60, 2-3 weeks): Prove travel within 14 days.
• Life-or-death emergency (free urgent): Immediate family death abroad, within 14 days.
• Private courier (extra fee): Trackable return shipping.

Quick Decision Tree:

• Valid old passport? (Issued <15 years ago for adults, <5 for minors; undamaged/not reported lost): → Renew by mail (easier, cheaper).
• Lost, stolen, damaged, expired >15 years, or no old passport? → New in-person application (required; bring DS-64 if lost/stolen).
• Minor (<16), first-time, or urgent need? → In-person only; parent/guardian presence mandatory—see minor section below.
• Travel imminent? → Expedite or embassy; don't wait if <4 weeks out.

Required Documents by Applicant Type

Gather all items before your appointment—missing even one leads to rejection and 4-6+ week delays (common pitfall: forgetting proof of citizenship). Use Form DS-11 for new/replacement apps.

Adults (16+):

• Completed DS-11 (unsigned until interview).
• DS-64 (if lost/stolen).
• U.S. citizenship evidence (original/certified birth certificate, naturalization cert, or prior undamaged passport).
• Valid ID (driver's license, military ID) + photocopy.
• Two passport photos.
• Fees: $130 app + $35 execution (cash/check/credit varies by facility).

Minors (<16):

• Both parents' presence or notarized consent (Form DS-3053).
• Child's birth certificate.
• Parents' IDs.
• Same as adult but $100 app fee; no mail option.

Decision tip: Scan/photocopy everything; originals returned. For Johnstown-area apps, confirm facility hours/fees online to avoid wasted trips.

Adults (16+): First-Time or Replacement

• Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until instructed).[4]
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original birth certificate (raised seal), naturalization cert, or prior passport. Photocopy front/back on 8.5x11 white paper.
• Valid photo ID: Driver's license, military ID. Photocopy.
• Passport photo (2x2 inches).
• Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (payable to acceptance facility) + $60 expedited (optional).[5]
• Name change proof if docs mismatch (e.g., marriage cert).

Adult Renewal (DS-82 by Mail)

• Completed DS-82.
• Old passport.
• New photo.
• Fees: $130 (check to Dept of State).[5]
• Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.

Minors Under 16

Both parents/guardians must appear (or submit notarized consent Form DS-3053). Common pitfall: Missing docs for non-custodial parents, frequent in Colorado's blended families.[6]

• DS-11.
• Child's citizenship proof + photocopy.
• Parents' IDs + photocopies.
• Parental relationship proof (birth cert).
• Photo.
• Fees: $100 application + $35 execution.

Vital records snag many: Order Colorado birth certs from CDPHE if needed (allow 5-10 business days).[7]

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos cause 25%+ of rejections in busy areas like Weld County.[1] Specs are strict:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• White/cream/off-white background.
• Full face, neutral expression, eyes open.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats, uniforms; even indoor glare/shadows fail.
• Recent (within 6 months), color print on matte/glossy photo paper.

Colorado's bright sun or home printers often cause glare—use CVS, Walgreens, or USPS ($15).[8] Selfies? Almost always rejected. Check samples on State Dept site.[9]

Acceptance Facilities in Johnstown and Weld County

Johnstown's small (pop. ~10k), so options are limited—book ASAP via online tools, as spring/summer and winter slots fill from Fort Collins/Loveland spillover.[1]

• Johnstown Post Office: 4756 E 1st St, Johnstown, CO 80534. Mon-Fri 9am-4pm by appointment. Call (970) 587-4261 or use USPS locator.[10]
• Weld County Clerk and Recorder (Greeley, 20-min drive): 915 10th St, Greeley, CO 80631. Handles first-time/minors. Appts via website; high volume for locals.[11]
• Nearby: Loveland Post Office (4750 E Crossroads Blvd, ~15 min): Full service.[10]
• Fort Collins Post Office (Main branches): Timberline & Drake, popular but booked.[10]

No clerk in Johnstown—head to Greeley. Search iafdb.travel.state.gov for 200+ CO facilities; peaks mean 4-6 week waits.[1] Private expeditors exist but add fees—no endorsement here.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing to Apply

Use this to avoid 90% of errors.

1. Determine type (first-time/renew/replace) using decision tree above.
2. Fill forms: DS-11/DS-82/DS-64/DS-3053. Download, complete in black ink, don't sign DS-11 early.[4]
3. Gather citizenship/ID/proof: Originals + single-sided photocopies (shrink to fit page).
4. Get photo: Professional, check specs twice.[9]
5. Calculate fees: Use fee calculator; execution fee varies ($35 USPS).[5]
6. Book appointment: Call or online 4-8 weeks ahead—earlier for peaks.
7. Arrive 15 min early: Bring all in folder. For minors, all parties.

Printed Checklist for Minors (Extra Steps):

1. Both parents appear or DS-3053 notarized (within 90 days).
2. Child's presence required.
3. Relationship docs (full birth cert chain).
4. No marital status proof needed unless name change.

Submitting Your Application: In-Person Process

At facility:

• Review docs (they execute fee).
• Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
• Pay: Cash/check/credit (varies).
• Get receipt—track online.[12]

Mail renewals certified for tracking.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 10-13 weeks (in-person) from receipt—longer in peaks (spring/summer starts April, winter Dec-Feb).[1] No guarantees; COVID/backlogs persist.

Expedited (2-3 weeks, +$60): Request at acceptance or mail. Still peaks delay.

Urgent (within 14 days): Life/death only (funeral proof). Call 1-877-487-2778 for appt at agency (Denver Passport Agency, 5+ hr drive).[13] Not for vacations/business—misunderstanding this strands Coloradans.

Track: Create account at travel.state.gov.[12] Add $21.36 delivery.

Lost tracking? Wait 2 weeks post-receipt before inquiring.

Special Considerations for Johnstown Residents

Weld County's ag/business hub means farm-related trips (e.g., equipment expos abroad). Students: CSU exchanges need visas too. Seasonal workers: Renew before winter layoffs.

Name changes post-marriage/divorce: Include court orders/certificates.

After You Apply

• Passport arrives 6-13 weeks: Sign immediately.
• No-show pickup? Contact facility.
• Errors? Report within 90 days.
• Travel soon? Get foreign entry reqs.[14]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Johnstown

In the Johnstown area, passport acceptance facilities provide essential services for first-time applicants, renewals, and replacements. These designated locations, authorized by the U.S. Department of State, handle the initial processing of passport applications but do not issue passports on-site. Common types include certain post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings within Johnstown and nearby communities like surrounding townships and adjacent counties.

Acceptance facilities verify your identity, administer the oath, and review your application for completeness before forwarding it to a regional passport agency for final processing. Expect to bring a completed DS-11 form (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals), two passport photos meeting specific requirements, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—typically separated into checks or money orders for each. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Processing times vary, but standard service takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an extra fee.

While many facilities operate on a walk-in basis, others recommend or require appointments to streamline visits. Always check the official U.S. State Department website or facility guidelines for the latest procedures, as services can change. Surrounding areas may offer additional options if Johnstown locations are crowded, expanding accessibility for residents in nearby rural or suburban zones.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities around Johnstown tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and international trips. Mondays often start the week with backlogs from weekend inquiries, and mid-day hours (roughly 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can get particularly crowded due to lunch breaks and shift changes.

To plan effectively, schedule appointments well in advance where possible, especially during high season. Arrive early in the day or toward closing to avoid peak rushes, and prepare all documents meticulously to prevent delays. Monitor wait times indirectly through general advisories, and consider off-peak weekdays like Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Patience is key—arrive with extras like additional photos or fees, and be ready for security checks similar to those at government offices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Johnstown?
No—local facilities don't issue; processing is federal. Urgent only via agencies with proof.[13]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60, 2-3 weeks) for any travel; urgent (within 14 days, agency appt) for life/death emergencies only. Don't count on either during CO peaks.[1]

My photo was rejected—what now?
Regret fee, retake immediately. Common: Shadows from CO sun, wrong size. Use pros.[9]

How do I renew if my passport is expiring soon?
Mail DS-82 if eligible—your old one remains valid until expiry for travel.[2]

Do both parents need to come for a child's passport?
Yes, or notarized DS-3053. Colorado notaries at banks/USPS.[6]

Where do I get my birth certificate in Weld County?
CDPHE online/vitalchek (fast fee) or county clerk for recent.[7]

Can I track my application status?
Yes, online with receipt number after 7-10 days.[12]

Is my driver's license enough proof of citizenship?
No—need birth cert/passport. REAL ID helps for ID only.[15]

Sources

[1]U.S. Passports & International Travel
[2]Renew an Adult Passport
[3]Lost or Stolen Passport
[4]Form DS-11
[5]Passport Fees
[6]Children Under 16
[7]Colorado Vital Records
[8]USPS Passport Services
[9]Passport Photo Requirements
[10]USPS Location Finder
[11]Weld County Clerk Passports
[12]Track Your Status
[13]Urgent Travel Service
[14]Country Information
[15]REAL ID

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