Smyrna DE Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals & Facilities

Getting a Passport in Smyrna, Delaware

Smyrna residents in Kent County, Delaware, commonly apply for passports for international business travel, peak-season vacations to Europe in spring/summer or the Caribbean during winter holidays, student programs at nearby University of Delaware, or urgent trips like family emergencies or job relocations. Proximity to East Coast hubs like Philadelphia International Airport supports quick getaways, but local acceptance facilities face high demand—especially March-June and October-December—leading to slots filling in days. Common pitfalls include photo rejections from poor lighting (e.g., home printer glare or uneven backgrounds), missing proofs for minors (birth certificates often forgotten), renewal mix-ups (e.g., using DS-82 when name changed significantly), and confusing expedited service (2-3 weeks processing if booked early) with urgent options (for trips under 14 days, requiring proof like flights). Book appointments 6-8 weeks ahead online via the official State Department site, arrive 15 minutes early with exact docs, and double-check photos meet 2x2-inch specs on plain white/no cream background. This guide uses official rules to streamline your process and avoid rejections [1].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Start here to pick the right form and timeline—wrong choices cause 30% of rejections. Use this decision guide:

• First-time applicant, lost/stolen/damaged passport, or previous passport expired over 15 years ago? Use DS-11 (new passport). Must apply in person; no mail option. Common mistake: Assuming renewal eligibility—always verify expiration date.

• Eligible for renewal? Previous passport issued when 16+, valid 10 years, expired less than 5 years ago, undamaged, name matches ID? Use DS-82 (renewal by mail). Pro tip: Even if eligible, in-person DS-11 works but takes longer. Mistake to avoid: Major name changes (e.g., marriage) or child passports require DS-11.

• Travel timeline?

  Urgency	Service	Processing Time	Requirements
  Routine	Standard	6-8 weeks	None extra
  Expedited	Faster track	2-3 weeks (+$60 fee)	Bookable up to 2 weeks pre-travel; add overnight delivery
  Urgent (trip <14 days)	Life-or-death or <14 days to intl departure	1-3 days (at agency)	Flight itinerary/proof; call 1-877-487-2778 first—no guarantees

For minors under 16: Always DS-11 in person with both parents' IDs/presence (or notarized consent). Pitfall: Incomplete Form 3053 delays 50% of child apps. Print forms single-sided, black ink; scan uploads fail if blurry. If unsure, use the State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov.

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport—or if you're under 16, your prior passport was issued before age 16, or it was lost/stolen/damaged—you must apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility. You cannot mail DS-11; renewals use DS-82 instead (see that section for eligibility).

Quick Decision Guide

• Can you renew? Yes, if your old passport was issued at 16+, is undamaged, and less than 15 years old—use DS-82 by mail.
• Need DS-11? First-timer, minor, or special case? Go in person.

What to Bring (All Originals + Photocopies on Plain White Paper)

• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (front/back copies).
• Photo ID: Driver's license, military ID, or government ID (front/back copies).
• Passport photo: One 2x2" color photo on white background, taken within 6 months (no selfies, uniforms, glasses, or hats unless religious/medical).
• Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" ($130 adult book/$100 card; +$35 acceptance fee to facility; optional $60 expedite).
• For minors under 16: Both parents' presence/ID, parental consent form, or court order.

Practical Steps for Smyrna, DE Area

1. Download/print DS-11 from travel.state.gov (complete but don't sign until instructed).
2. Use USPS.com locator or Delaware state site to find nearby acceptance facilities (e.g., post offices, libraries, or county offices in Kent County).
3. Call ahead: Many require appointments (walk-ins rare; book early to avoid 4-6 week waits).
4. Aim for morning visits; processing takes 10-20 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• No photocopies: Facilities reject apps without them—bring extras.
• Wrong photo: Off-spec photos waste time/money (use CVS/Walgreens; $15).
• Signing early: DS-11 must be unsigned in front of agent.
• Incomplete citizenship proof: Name mismatches? Bring amendment docs.
• Weekend hopes: Most facilities closed Sundays; DE holidays add delays.

Expect 6-8 weeks processing (2-3 expedited); track at travel.state.gov. Name changes? Extra docs needed.

Passport Renewal

You may qualify for renewal by mail using Form DS-82 if:

• Your most recent passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It is undamaged and in your possession.
• You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.

Renewals are simpler and faster for eligible applicants, avoiding in-person visits. During high-demand periods like spring break or pre-summer travel in Delaware, mail renewals help bypass crowded facilities [1].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Use Form DS-64 for reporting loss/theft (free) and DS-11 or DS-82 for replacement, depending on eligibility. If abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy; otherwise, apply in person or by mail as appropriate. Provide evidence like a police report for stolen passports [1].

For urgent replacements needed within 14 days due to travel, see the expedited options below, but note that peak seasons in Smyrna and Kent County can strain availability—no processing times are guaranteed [2].

Required Documents and Eligibility

All applicants must prove U.S. citizenship, identity, and provide a photo. Originals or certified copies are required; photocopies are not accepted except where specified.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (issued by Delaware Division of Public Health or equivalent), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport. For Delaware births, order from the state vital records office if needed [3].
• Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or military ID. Name must match exactly or provide legal name change documents.
• For Minors Under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Additional rules apply—see the minors section below.
• Fees: Payable by check or money order (personal checks accepted at some facilities). Passport book: $130 application + $35 execution fee (adult); expedited adds $60. Processing fees go to the State Department; execution fees to the facility [1].

Common pitfall: Incomplete minor documentation causes 20-30% of rejections in busy areas like Kent County [2].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for many delays. Specifications are strict: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, taken within 6 months, head measuring 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses (unless medically necessary), no uniforms, hats, or shadows/glare [4].

In Smyrna, get photos at:

• CVS Pharmacy (e.g., 2496 S Dupont Blvd) or Walgreens (326 N Dupont Blvd)—both offer compliant digital prints for $15-17.
• Smyrna Post Office during acceptance visits.

Rejections spike in summer due to glare from outdoor lighting. Use official specs from the State Department poster [4]. Do not trim photos yourself.

Where to Apply in Smyrna and Nearby Kent County

Smyrna lacks a passport agency (nearest in Philadelphia), so use acceptance facilities for DS-11 applications. Book appointments online immediately—slots fill fast during Delaware's seasonal travel surges [5].

• Smyrna Post Office (43 S Cory Ln, Smyrna, DE 19977): Full passport acceptance services by appointment. Call (302) 653-4474 or book via USPS online tool. Execution fee: $35 [5].
• Camden Post Office (3466 S Dupont Hwy, Camden Wyoming, DE 19934, ~10 miles north): Another option for Kent County residents [5].
• Dover Main Post Office (300 E Water St, Dover, DE 19901, ~15 miles north): High-volume facility; book early [5].
• Kent County Family Court (102 W Water St, Dover): Limited hours; confirm via state locator [6].

For renewals (DS-82), mail to the address on the form—no local visit needed [1]. Track status online after 7-10 days [2].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Smyrna

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and other passport services. These facilities do not process passports themselves; they verify your completed forms, required identification, photographs, and fees before forwarding everything to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Smyrna, you'll find a variety of these facilities conveniently scattered across the area, often in central community hubs, shopping districts, and government centers. Some larger post offices or county offices may handle higher volumes, while smaller branches offer more personalized service.

When visiting, expect a straightforward process: arrive with your fully completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your needs), two passport photos meeting State Department specs, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment (checks or money orders preferred; credit cards may not be accepted everywhere). Staff will review documents for completeness, administer an oath, and collect fees—typically separated into application and execution fees. Wait times vary based on volume, and most locations operate on a walk-in basis, though some offer appointments via the online passport appointment system. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians. Always check the official U.S. State Department website for the latest forms and requirements before heading out.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see peak crowds during high travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start busy as people catch up from the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can fill up quickly with lunch-hour visitors. To minimize delays, aim for early mornings shortly after opening or late afternoons near closing. If available, book an appointment online through the facility's system or the State Department's locator tool—many now prioritize scheduled visits. Arrive prepared with all documents to avoid backtracking, and consider weekdays over weekends for lighter traffic. During peak periods, processing times nationwide can extend to 10-13 weeks for routine service, so apply well in advance of travel plans. Patience and preparation go a long way in navigating these spots efficiently.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Adult First-Time or Replacement (DS-11)

Follow this sequentially to minimize errors:

1. Complete Form DS-11: Fill out but do not sign until instructed at the facility. Download from official site [7].
2. Gather Proof of Citizenship: Original birth certificate or equivalent. Order Delaware records online if lost [3].
3. Gather Proof of Identity: Valid photo ID. Bring photocopy as secondary evidence.
4. Get Passport Photo: 2x2 compliant; attach loosely to form.
5. Calculate Fees: Application fee ($130 adult book), execution fee ($35), expedited ($60 if needed). Two separate payments.
6. Book Appointment: Use USPS tool for Smyrna Post Office [5].
7. Appear in Person: Present all originals; sign form in front of agent.
8. Pay and Submit: Receive receipt; track online [2].
9. Plan for Travel: Routine processing 6-8 weeks; expedited 2-3 weeks (mail extra fee) [2].

For Renewals (DS-82): Complete/sign form, include old passport, photo, fees; mail via USPS Priority (tracked).

Special Rules for Minors Under 16

Minors require in-person applications with stricter rules due to high fraud risk:

• Both parents/guardians must appear together with the child.
• Or, one parent with notarized consent from the other (DS-3053, recent photo ID copy).
• Or, sole custody proof if applicable. Fees: $100 application + $35 execution. Kent County sees spikes in minor apps during summer exchange programs—book early [1].

Minor Checklist:

1. DS-11 unsigned.
2. Child's birth certificate.
3. Parents' IDs and consent forms.
4. Child's photo (head size adjusted for infants).
5. Fees.
6. All appear at facility.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (does not include mailing) [2]. Expedited: 2-3 weeks + $60 (request at acceptance or online post-submission). For life-or-death emergencies or urgent travel within 14 days, call the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778) after submitting—Philadelphia Passport Agency may schedule if qualified, but peak seasons (spring/summer, winter holidays) overwhelm slots [2].

Warning: Do not rely on last-minute processing in high-demand Delaware; apply 9+ weeks early. No refunds for delays [1].

Track at travel.state.gov [2]. For status calls, wait 14 days post-submission.

Additional Tips for Smyrna Residents

• Birth Certificates: Delaware issues certified copies via mail/online ($20 first copy); vital records office processes in 1-2 weeks standard [3].
• Name Changes: Include court orders or marriage certificates.
• International Travel Prep: Check destination requirements (e.g., some need 6 months validity).
• Peak avoidance: Apply post-holidays or mid-fall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Smyrna?
No, no regional agencies offer walk-ins. Nearest agency (Philadelphia) requires appointments for qualified urgent cases only [2].

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60) speeds to 2-3 weeks anytime. Urgent (within 14 days) requires proof of travel and agency appointment—not guaranteed during peaks [2].

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake with exact specs: no shadows, even lighting, proper size. Use State Department examples [4].

How do I renew if my passport is expiring soon?
Use DS-82 by mail if eligible, even if within 1 year of expiration. Your old passport serves as both ID and citizenship proof [1].

What if I need a passport for a minor traveling alone?
Include DS-3053 notarized consent, itinerary, and parent IDs. Airlines may require additional letters [1].

Where do I get a Delaware birth certificate?
Order from Delaware Division of Public Health Vital Records; use expedited mail service ($45) for urgency [3].

Can I track my application status?
Yes, online with receipt number after 7-10 days, or call 1-877-487-2778 [2].

Is a passport card enough for international travel?
No, cards are land/sea only (Mexico/Canada/Caribbean). Get book for air travel [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply for a Passport
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Processing Times
[3]Delaware Division of Public Health - Vital Records
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[5]USPS Passport Locations
[6]U.S. Department of State - Delaware Acceptance Facilities
[7]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms