Getting a Passport in Davie, FL: Local Facilities & Application Guide

Getting a Passport in Davie, FL

Davie, located in Broward County, Florida, is a hub for residents who frequently travel internationally for business, tourism, and family visits. Proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Port Everglades cruise terminal makes it easy to catch flights or ships to the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe. Seasonal peaks occur during spring break, summer vacations, and winter escapes, alongside steady demand from business travelers and university students near Nova Southeastern University participating in exchange programs. Last-minute trips for family emergencies or sudden opportunities are common, but high demand at local facilities can lead to limited appointments.[1]

Florida's passport process follows federal rules, but local challenges include crowded acceptance facilities during peak seasons (March-May and December-February), photo rejections from poor lighting or glare in humid Florida weather, and confusion over documentation for minors or renewals. Incomplete applications delay processing, and expedited services don't guarantee same-day issuance except in dire cases.[2] Always check current wait times and book appointments early via the official U.S. Department of State locator.[3]

This guide walks you through eligibility, preparation, application options, and local resources tailored for Davie residents.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Misusing forms is a top reason for rejections.

First-Time Adult Passport (Age 16+)

If you're 16 or older, have never held a U.S. passport, or your previous one was issued more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (such as post offices, libraries, or county offices common in Davie, FL). Use Form DS-11—download it from travel.state.gov and do not sign it until the agent instructs you during your visit.[2]

Quick decision guide:

• Check your old passport's issue date (inside back cover). Over 15 years old? Treat as first-time (DS-11). Under 15 years and undamaged? Renew by mail (DS-82).
• Minors under 16 or name changes require DS-11 regardless.

Key steps for success in Davie, FL:

1. Gather original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization cert), valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID), photocopies of both (on plain white paper), one 2x2" color passport photo (taken within 6 months, neutral expression, white background—many Walgreens or CVS nearby offer this), and fees (checkbook or card; execution fee ~$35 paid separately).
2. Complete DS-11 but leave signature blank.
3. Call ahead or check online—most local facilities require appointments (spots fill fast, especially pre-travel seasons). Walk-ins rare.
4. Arrive 15-30 min early with all docs organized.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Signing DS-11 too early (biggest rejection reason—starts process over).
• Fuzzy/expired photos or selfies (must meet exact specs; use pro service).
• Forgetting certified photocopies or exact fees (cashier's check best for application fee).
• Assuming renewal if passport >15 years old (forces in-person).

Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (2-3 expedited); track at travel.state.gov. Plan 2-3 months ahead for Davie-area travel.

Adult Renewal

If your passport was issued when you were 16+, is undamaged, and was received within the last 15 years, renew by mail using Form DS-82. This skips in-person visits and is ideal for Davie's busy professionals.[2] Not eligible? Treat as first-time.

Child Passport (Under 16)

Always in-person with both parents/guardians using DS-11. Common for exchange students or family cruises from Port Everglades.[2]

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• Lost or Stolen Valid Passport:
  Immediately report online using Form DS-64 at travel.state.gov (free, takes 5-10 minutes)—this invalidates it and protects against identity theft, a common mistake that delays replacement and risks fraud. You cannot renew by mail (DS-82 ineligible without submitting the old passport). Instead, apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility near Davie, FL (search "passport acceptance facility locator" on travel.state.gov or usps.com with your ZIP code).
  Decision tip: Confirm eligibility first—if your lost passport was issued after age 16 and within 15 years but undamaged prior to loss, you'd normally renew by mail; loss forces in-person.

• Damaged Passport:
  Invalid for travel/use—replace in person only using Form DS-11 (no mail option, even if otherwise eligible for DS-82). Surrender the damaged passport; minor wear (e.g., creases) might be acceptable, but tears, water damage, or alterations require replacement.
  Common mistake: Mailing it anyway, causing rejection and extra trips/fees.
  Decision tip: Inspect for damage—if borderline, email photo to NPIC@state.gov for free pre-assessment before applying.

Multiple Passports or Name Change

Request a second passport book if frequent travel requires one while another is at a consulate. For name changes post-marriage/divorce, renew with evidence.[2]

Use the State Department's online wizard to confirm: travel.state.gov wizard.[5]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application

Follow this checklist to avoid common pitfalls like incomplete docs or bad photos, which spike in Florida's high-volume areas.

1. Confirm Eligibility and Timeline

   • Routine: 6-8 weeks (or longer in peaks).[1]
   • Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60 fee), add $21.36 for 1-2 day return.[1]
   • Urgent (travel in 14 days): Life-or-death in 3 days at agency; otherwise, expedited only.[6]
   • Warning: No hard guarantees during Broward peaks—plan 8+ weeks ahead.

2. Gather Primary ID

   • U.S. citizens: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Florida REAL ID compliant? It works.[7]
   • No ID? Secondary evidence like birth cert + Social Security card.

3. Obtain Proof of U.S. Citizenship

   • Birth certificate (raised seal, not photocopy). Order from Broward County Health Department if born in FL: $9-14, 3-5 business days in-person.[8]
   • Naturalization cert, etc. For Davie births, vital records office at 5294 Stadium Rd, Lauderhill (nearby).

4. Get Passport Photos

   • 2x2 inches, color, white/off-white background, no glasses/shadows/glare.[9]
   • Florida tip: Avoid outdoor photos—humidity causes glare. Use CVS/Walgreens in Davie (e.g., 1880 S University Dr) for $15, but verify specs.[9]
   • Rejection risks: Head not 1-1 3/8 inches, uneven lighting.

5. Fill Forms

   • DS-11 (in-person): Do not sign until instructed.
   • DS-82 (mail): Sign and date.
   • Download from travel.state.gov/forms.[10]

6. Calculate Fees

   • Adult first-time/book: $130 application + $35 execution.[1]
   • Renewal: $130.[1]
   • Child: $100 application + $35.[1]
   • Expedited: +$60.
   • 1-2 day: +$21.36.
   • Pay execution fee (cash/check/card) to facility; application fee (check/money order) to State Dept.

7. Book Appointment

   • Facilities book up fast—call 2-4 weeks ahead.

Completed Checklist Sign-Off:

• Forms printed/black ink
• Photos attached (don't staple DS-11)
• Fees ready (two payments)
• All docs originals + photocopies

Local Acceptance Facilities in Davie and Broward County

Davie has no standalone passport agency (those are for urgent only, like Miami).[3] Use these acceptance facilities:

• Davie Post Office: 3860 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328. (954) 472-4969. Mon-Fri 10am-3pm by appointment.[11]
• University Post Office (Nova Southeastern): 3100 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33314. Student-friendly, (954) 262-8922.[11]
• Nearby Broward Clerk: Central location at 201 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale (20-min drive). Mon-Fri 9am-3pm, walk-ins limited.[12]
• Hollywood Post Office: 3201 Hollywood Blvd (15-min drive). High volume, book early.[11]

Search full list and book: USPS Locator.[11] Or State Dept: iafdb.travel.state.gov.[3]

For mail renewals: Send to National Passport Processing Center, not locally.[2]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Submission Day

1. Arrive Early

   • Bring all from prep checklist + appointment confirmation.

2. At Facility

   • Present docs; staff reviews.
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Pay fees (execution on-site).

3. Track Status

   • Get tracking # for application fee payment.
   • Check online: passportstatus.state.gov.[13]

4. Post-Submission

   • Old passport returned (if valid).
   • New one mailed 6-8 weeks later—sign upon receipt.

Expedited and Urgent Travel in Davie

For travel under 14 days:

• Expedite at acceptance facility.
• Urgent? Call 1-877-487-2778 for agency appointment (Miami Passport Agency, 2-hour drive).[6]
• Life-or-death: Same-day possible with proof (death cert, obit).[6]
• Cruises: Bookends policy—passport not always needed, but verify.[1]

Avoid scams: Only use official sites; no "expeditors" promise faster federal processing.

Common Challenges and Tips for Davie Residents

• High Demand: Broward facilities see surges from snowbirds and spring breakers. Weekday mornings best.
• Photos: 40% rejections nationwide from glare/shadows—use indoor studios.[9]
• Minors: Both parents needed; if one absent, sole custody form.[2]
• Documentation Gaps: Florida birth certs often hospital-issued (invalid)—get certified copy.[8]
• Renewals by Mail: Eligible? Save trip—postmark early.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Davie

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State where individuals can submit applications for new passports, renewals, or replacements in person. These facilities do not produce passports themselves but verify your identity, review your documents, administer the oath, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Davie, you may find such facilities at various post offices, libraries, and government offices in nearby communities like Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, and Plantation. Always verify current status through official channels, as participation can change.

When visiting, expect to bring completed forms, proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate), a valid photo ID, passport photos meeting specific requirements, and payment for fees. Minors under 16 typically require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Processing involves an in-person interview, and standard service takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an extra fee. Walk-ins may be accepted at some sites, but appointments are often recommended to streamline the process and reduce wait times. Facilities handle high volumes, so patience is key—arrive prepared with all materials organized.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities tend to see heavier traffic during peak travel seasons, such as summer months and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start the week with backlogs from weekend submissions, while mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can get crowded as people schedule lunch breaks. To plan effectively, check for appointment availability in advance and aim for early morning or late afternoon visits during weekdays. Avoid peak seasons if possible, or opt for less busy periods like mid-week. Confirm requirements and policies ahead via the official U.S. State Department website to ensure a smooth experience and minimize delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Davie?
No routine same-day service. Only passport agencies for verified urgent cases; nearest in Miami.[6]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent travel?
Expedited (2-3 weeks) available anytime; urgent (14 days or less) may qualify for agency appointment, but not guaranteed.[1]

Do I need an appointment at Davie Post Office?
Yes, most require it—call or book online. Walk-ins rare and limited.[11]

My child has a passport; does it need renewal?
Child passports (under 16) expire after 5 years and cannot be renewed by mail—new DS-11 required.[2]

Lost my passport abroad—what now?
Report to embassy; apply for replacement upon return. Carry photocopies always.[4]

Is a Florida birth certificate enough proof?
Must be state-issued with raised seal. Order from Broward Health Dept if needed.[8]

How do I track my application?
Use the gold tracking number from your fee receipt at passportstatus.state.gov.[13]

Can I use my passport for a cruise from Port Everglades?
Closed-loop cruises to Caribbean allow birth cert + ID, but passport recommended for flexibility.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Passports & International Travel
[2]How to Apply for a Passport
[3]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[4]Lost or Stolen Passport
[5]Passport Application Wizard
[6]Urgent Travel Service
[7]Florida REAL ID
[8]Broward County Birth Certificates
[9]Passport Photo Requirements
[10]Passport Forms
[11]USPS Passport Services
[12]Broward Clerk Passport Services
[13]Passport Status Check