Seaford DE Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals, Facilities

Getting a Passport in Seaford, Delaware

Living in Seaford, Delaware, in Sussex County, means you're close to popular beach destinations and major airports like Salisbury-Ocean City (SBY) or Philadelphia (PHL), which see heavy international traffic. Delaware residents often travel abroad for business, family visits, or tourism, with peaks in spring/summer beach seasons and winter breaks. Students from nearby programs, including exchange initiatives through local high schools or the University of Delaware's outreach, add to the demand. Last-minute trips for urgent family matters or spontaneous vacations are common, but high-volume periods strain resources. Facilities in Seaford and Sussex County can book up quickly, so planning ahead is key to avoiding delays[1].

This guide walks you through every step, highlighting local options and pitfalls like limited appointments, photo rejections (often from glare or shadows under Delaware's bright coastal sun), and form mix-ups for renewals or minors. Always verify details on official sites, as rules can update.

Choose the Right Passport Service for Your Needs

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to select the correct process. Applying incorrectly wastes time and money.

First-Time Passport

If you've never held a U.S. passport—or your prior passport was issued before age 16, lost/stolen, damaged, or expired more than 15 years ago—use Form DS-11 and apply in person at a passport acceptance facility near Seaford, DE. First-timers have no mail-in or online option; an agent must witness your application.

Practical Steps:

1. Download Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov (print single-sided).
2. Prepare: Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate), valid photo ID (e.g., driver's license), one 2x2" color passport photo (white background, taken within 6 months), and fees ($130 application + $35 execution; pay separately).
3. Do not sign DS-11 until the agent instructs you in person.
4. Use the State Department's online locator (travel.state.gov) to find facilities serving Seaford—book appointments ASAP, as wait times can exceed 4-6 weeks in peak seasons like summer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 prematurely (federal violation; voids the form).
• Bringing originals only—include photocopies (front/back on 8.5x11" paper).
• Wrong photo specs (no selfies, uniforms, or glasses obscuring eyes).
• Assuming renewal eligibility—many overestimate and waste time/money.

Decision Guidance:

• DS-11 if: First-time, child under 16, name/gender change, or prior passport unavailable/unusable.
• DS-82 renewal if: Issued 16+ years old, within last 15 years, same name/gender, undamaged, and in hand.
• Hesitant? Review your old passport details or call the National Passport Info Center (1-877-487-2778) before starting. For Seaford-area travel urgency (e.g., <6 weeks), prioritize expedited service (+$60) or life-or-death emergency options.

Passport Renewal

Eligible applicants (passport issued when 16+, within 15 years, undamaged, and issued in your current name) can renew by mail using Form DS-82. Skip this if your passport is older than 15 years or damaged—treat it as first-time/new[2]. Many Seaford residents overlook eligibility, leading to unnecessary trips.

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• Lost/stolen abroad: Contact the nearest U.S. embassy; report via Form DS-64 upon return[3].
• Lost/stolen/domaged at home: If eligible (recent issuance, undamaged otherwise), renew with DS-82 and explain. Otherwise, apply in-person with DS-11 and DS-64[3].
• Urgent replacements within 14 days? See expedited options below.

Urgent travel? Distinguish: "Expedited" (2-3 weeks) vs. "Urgent" (life/death, within 14 days at a passport agency). No local agency in Delaware—nearest in Philadelphia[4].

Gather Required Documents

Incomplete applications are a top rejection reason, especially for minors needing both parents' consent.

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

• U.S. birth certificate (long-form preferred; short-form often rejected). Order from Delaware Division of Public Health if needed (vital records office in Dover or online)[5].
• Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
• Photocopy all on plain white paper.

Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy)

• Valid driver's license (Delaware DMV), military ID, or government ID. Name must match citizenship docs—if not, provide name change evidence (marriage certificate, court order)[1].

Parental Consent for Minors (Under 16)

Both parents/guardians must appear or submit Form DS-3053 (notarized). If one parent unavailable, provide death certificate, custody order, or sole authority docs. Sussex County Family Court handles related records[6].

Additional for Renewals/Replacements

• Old passport (they'll punch a hole if valid).
• For name changes: Legal docs.

Pro tip: Scan/photocopy everything before submitting—originals aren't returned immediately.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections[7]. Specs: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, head 1-1 3/8 inches, even lighting, no glare/shadows, neutral expression, glasses ok if eyes visible (no glare).

Local options in Seaford:

• CVS Pharmacy (22845 Sussex Hwy) or Walgreens (23141 Sussex Hwy)—$15-17, confirm passport compliance.
• Avoid selfies or home printers; coastal lighting causes glare issues.

Print specs strictly per State Department rules[7]. Bring two identical photos to your appointment.

Locate Acceptance Facilities Near Seaford

Sussex County has several passport acceptance facilities (PAFs), but book early—spring/summer slots fill from tourism demand.

• Seaford Post Office: 500 N Dual Hwy, Seaford, DE 19973. Mon-Fri 9AM-2PM by appointment. Call (302) 628-2823 or use USPS locator[8].
• Georgetown Post Office (15 miles north): 203 S Bedford St, Georgetown, DE 19947. Similar hours.
• Millsboro Post Office (nearby): 240 Mitchell St.
• Sussex County Courthouse (Clerk of Court): 34 The Circle, Georgetown—check for passport services[9].

Search "passport acceptance facility" on USPS.com with ZIP 19973. No walk-ins; appointments via facility or online[8]. Peak seasons (Memorial Day-Labor Day, holidays) book 4-6 weeks out.

For renewals: Mail to National Passport Processing Center (see form instructions).

Step-by-Step Checklist: In-Person Application (DS-11)

Use this printable checklist for first-time, minors, or non-eligible renewals.

1. Complete Form DS-11 (black ink, no signing until instructed). Download from travel.state.gov[1]. Double-check boxes for book/card, expedited.
2. Gather docs/photos: Citizenship proof + copy, ID + copy, photos (2), old passport if applicable, minor forms.
3. Calculate/pay fees: See Fees section. Exact cash/check/money order to "US Department of State"; execution fee separate to facility.
4. Book appointment: Call facility 4-6 weeks ahead, especially summer.
5. Arrive 15 mins early: Bring all originals. Agent witnesses signature.
6. Submit: Agent seals envelope. Get receipt for tracking.
7. Track online: Use receipt number at travel.state.gov[10].

Time: 30-60 mins. For minors, all parties present.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Mail-In Renewal (DS-82)

For eligible renewals only.

1. Verify eligibility: Issued <15 years ago, age 16+, your signature.
2. Complete DS-82: Download/print[2]. Include old passport.
3. Photos/docs: 2 photos, name change proof if needed.
4. Fees: Single check/money order to "US Department of State."
5. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (or PO Box 90190 for expedited)[11].
6. Track: Online after 7-10 days[10].

Fees and Payment

Fees unchanged recently[12]:

• Book (10yr adult): $130 application + $35 execution + $30 optional card.
• Book (minor <16): $100 application + $35 execution.
• Renewal: $130 adult book.
• Expedited: +$60 (select on form).
• 1-2 day urgent: +$22 overnight delivery (agency only).

Execution fee ($35) to facility (cash/check). State fees separate—no refunds for errors.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 10-13 weeks (in-person) from submission[13]. Add 2 weeks mailing. No guarantees—peaks (summer/winter) stretch to 15+ weeks.

Expedited: 2-3 weeks +$60. Urgent (14 days or less, life/death): Philadelphia Passport Agency (1600 Callowhill St, by appointment only)[4]. Proof required (doctor's letter, funeral invite). Don't count on last-minute during holidays.

Track at travel.state.gov[10]. Pickup: Mailed unless expedited pickup requested.

Special Considerations for Delaware Residents

• Birth certificates: Sussex residents order from Delaware Vital Records (417 Federal St, Dover, or online)[5]. Rush 1-3 days.
• Students/exchanges: High school programs (Seaford Sr HS) need parental consent; colleges use DS-3053.
• Seasonal urgency: Beach towns spike summer—apply 3 months early.
• Name changes: Delaware DMV or Sussex Family Court for records.

After You Apply: What to Expect

Receipt mailed 2 weeks post-submission. Passports arrive 6-13 weeks later (signature required for adults). If damaged/missing pages, contact State Dept. Report receipt of old passport if not submitted.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Seaford

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These locations do not process passports themselves; instead, they verify your documents, administer oaths, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for final processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Seaford, residents typically find such facilities within local post offices, government centers, and community hubs in nearby towns like Georgetown, Millsboro, and Laurel. These sites serve Sussex County and surrounding areas, making it convenient for locals to handle applications without traveling far.

When visiting an acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form for new passports (or DS-82 for renewals by mail, if eligible), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting State Department specs, and payment for application and execution fees—often separated into checks or money orders. Expect a short interview where staff confirm your identity and eligibility. Appointments are often required or recommended at many sites to streamline service, and walk-ins may face waits. Processing times start from 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited, so apply well in advance of travel needs. Always check the official State Department website for the latest requirements and to locate participating facilities by ZIP code.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often bring crowds from weekend backlog, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can be particularly crowded due to lunch-hour rushes. To minimize delays, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding the start of the week if possible. Book appointments online where available, arrive 15 minutes early with all documents organized, and consider off-peak months like fall or winter for smoother visits. Flexibility and preparation are key to a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Seaford?
No local agencies offer same-day. Nearest urgent service in Philadelphia requires appointment and proof[4].

What if my appointment is full?
Try nearby PAFs like Georgetown or Millsboro. Renew by mail if eligible. Off-peak (fall) has better availability[8].

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake with proper lighting/background. Common Delaware issue: outdoor glare. Use pharmacy specs[7].

Do I need an appointment for renewal?
No, mail-in only if eligible. In-person if not[2].

How do I handle a minor's passport with one parent?
Submit DS-3053 notarized + custody docs. Both parents ideal[1].

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited: 2-3 weeks, fee-based. Urgent: <14 days, agency-only for emergencies[13].

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

Birth certificate lost—how to replace quickly?
Online/vital records rush service[5].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[2]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail
[3]U.S. Department of State - Lost or Stolen Passport
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[5]Delaware Division of Public Health - Vital Records
[6]Sussex County Courts
[7]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[8]USPS Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[9]Sussex County Government
[10]U.S. Department of State - Application Status
[11]U.S. Department of State - Where to Send Renewal
[12]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[13]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times