Yulee FL Passport Guide: Apply, Renew at Local Facilities

By GovComplete Team Published on:

Location: Yulee, FL
Yulee FL Passport Guide: Apply, Renew at Local Facilities

Getting a Passport in Yulee, Florida

Yulee, located in Nassau County, Florida, is a growing community near the Georgia border and close to Jacksonville International Airport and cruise ports like Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach. Florida residents, including those in Yulee, frequently apply for passports due to robust international travel patterns. Business travelers head to Latin America and Europe, tourists flock to the Caribbean via nearby cruises, and seasonal spikes occur during spring break, summer vacations, and winter escapes for "snowbirds." Students participate in exchange programs, and urgent trips arise from last-minute family emergencies or work relocations. However, high demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer. Common pitfalls include photo rejections from poor lighting or sizing, incomplete forms for minors, and confusion over expedited services for travel within 14 days [1].

This guide provides a straightforward path to obtaining, renewing, or replacing a U.S. passport from Yulee. Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can change.

Choose the Right Passport Service for Your Situation

Before gathering documents, identify your needs. U.S. passports are issued by the U.S. Department of State, but applications start at local acceptance facilities like post offices or county offices in Nassau County [1].

  • First-Time Applicant: No prior U.S. passport, or previous one expired more than 15 years ago, was issued before age 16, or is damaged. Use Form DS-11 and apply in person [2].

  • Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you were at least 16 when issued, and it's undamaged. Most can renew by mail using Form DS-82, a convenient option for Yulee residents avoiding busy facilities [3].

  • Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: Report it via Form DS-64 (free report), then apply using DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (mail if eligible). Include a $60 fee for the report if replacing [4].

  • Child (Under 16) Passport: Always first-time process with DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear or provide consent [5].

  • Name Change or Correction: Use DS-5504 by mail if recent change; otherwise, treat as new application [6].

Florida's high travel volume means planning ahead is key. If your trip is within 14 days, seek expedited service or life-or-death emergency processing at a regional passport agency (nearest: Miami or Atlanta) [7]. Book appointments early via the State Department's portal.

Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Gather originals—no photocopies unless specified. Florida-specific notes: Birth certificates come from the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics [8].

Document Checklist for First-Time or Child Applications (DS-11):

  1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original + photocopy):

    • U.S. birth certificate (long form preferred; Florida-issued from vital records).
    • Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.
    • Previous U.S. passport (if applicable).
  2. Proof of Identity (original + photocopy):

    • Valid driver's license (Florida DL from Nassau DHSMV office).
    • Military ID, government employee ID, or passport card.
  3. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo (details below).

  4. Form DS-11: Completed but unsigned until in front of agent [2].

  5. Fees: $130 application + $35 acceptance fee (check/money order); execution fee payable to facility [9].

For Renewals by Mail (DS-82):

  1. Current passport.
  2. New photo.
  3. Form DS-82.
  4. Fees: $130 (book) or $190 (card/book combo).
  5. Name change evidence if applicable [3].

For Minors Under 16:

  • Both parents/guardians present, or Form DS-3053 notarized consent.
  • Child's presence required.
  • Fees: $100 application + $35 acceptance [5].

Photocopy all on standard 8.5x11 white paper, front/back if double-sided. Florida residents often face delays retrieving birth certificates during peaks; order online or via mail from vital records [8].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections. Specs: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses (unless medically necessary), even lighting—no shadows, glare, or hats [10].

In Yulee:

  • Yulee Post Office (96082 Lofton Square Ct S): Offers photos by appointment [11].
  • Nearby Walgreens or CVS (e.g., Fernandina Beach): $15-17.
  • Selfie booths at USPS or AAA (if member).

Florida's sunny climate causes glare issues; use indoor studios. Upload digital previews to travel.state.gov/photo tool for validation [10].

Where to Apply in Yulee and Nassau County

Acceptance facilities verify identity and witness your signature—no passports issued on-site.

  • Yulee Post Office (96082 Lofton Square Ct S, Yulee, FL 32097): By appointment only. Call 904-225-8193 or use USPS locator [11].

  • Nassau County Clerk of the Circuit Court (76347 Veterans Way, Suite 230, Yulee, FL 32097): Handles passports; check hours/appointments at nassauclerk.com [12].

  • Fernandina Beach Post Office (10 N 4th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034): 15 minutes south; appointments via 904-261-0415 [11].

Search "passport acceptance facility" on travel.state.gov or USPS tools for real-time availability [13]. High demand in Nassau means booking 4-6 weeks ahead during spring/summer or winter breaks.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Yulee

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations where U.S. citizens can submit applications for new passports, renewals, or replacements in person. These sites, authorized by the U.S. Department of State, verify your identity, review application forms for completeness, administer the required oath, and forward your documents to a regional passport agency for processing. They do not issue passports on-site but play a crucial first step in the process.

In and around Yulee, you'll find such facilities at common venues like post offices, county clerk offices, public libraries, and municipal buildings. Nearby areas, including surrounding towns and larger hubs like Jacksonville, offer additional options within a reasonable drive. To locate them, use the official State Department website's search tool by entering your ZIP code or city. Expect to bring a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), a valid photo ID, passport photos meeting strict specifications (2x2 inches, white background, recent), and payment for application fees—typically a check or money order for the government portion and cash, card, or check for the facility's execution fee.

The process usually takes 15-30 minutes if prepared, but allow extra time for any issues like missing documents. Standard processing is 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an additional fee. Always confirm requirements online, as they can change.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer vacation periods, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start the week with backlogs from weekend inquiries, while mid-day hours (around lunch) can get crowded as locals run errands. To navigate this, plan visits for early mornings, late afternoons, or mid-week days like Tuesdays or Wednesdays, avoiding seasonal peaks when possible.

Schedule appointments through facility websites or apps if offered—many now require them to manage flow. Arrive with all documents prepped, double-check photo standards to prevent rejections, and monitor application status online post-submission. Patience and preparation minimize delays in this essential travel prep step.

Step-by-Step Application Process Checklist

In-Person Application (DS-11 Process):

  1. Schedule Appointment: Use online tools for Yulee PO or Clerk [11][12].

  2. Complete Form: Fill DS-11 online, print unsigned [2].

  3. Gather Checklist Items: Documents, photo, fees (two checks: one to "U.S. Department of State," one to facility).

  4. Arrive Early: Bring all originals; arrive 15 minutes early.

  5. At Facility: Present docs, sign DS-11, pay fees. Receive receipt with tracking number.

  6. Track Status: Online at travel.state.gov 7-10 days later [14].

Mail Renewal (DS-82):

  1. Complete DS-82 online/print.
  2. Attach old passport, photo, check.
  3. Mail to address on form (National Passport Processing Center) [3].

Processing: Routine 6-8 weeks; expedited (extra $60) 2-3 weeks. Avoid relying on last-minute during Florida peaks—agency visits require proof of imminent travel [7]. Track via email alerts.

Expedited and Urgent Travel in Florida

Florida's travel hubs amplify urgency needs. For 2-3 week processing: Add $60, overnight to facility. Within 14 days: Passport agency appointment (proof of travel required, e.g., flights). Life-or-death: Same-day possible with death certificate [7].

Nearest agencies: Atlanta (4-hour drive) or Miami (5+ hours). No walk-ins; book via 1-877-487-2778 [15]. Seasonal surges from cruise season (Nov-Apr) and spring break strain resources—apply 3+ months early.

Special Considerations for Yulee Residents

  • Minors and Students: Exchange programs to Europe/Asia common; parental consent critical. Florida schools may assist with forms.

  • Military/Seniors: VA centers or senior centers near Yulee offer guidance.

  • Cruises: Closed-loop (roundtrip U.S.) allow birth certificate + ID, but passport recommended [16].

Lost passports abroad: Contact U.S. Embassy; replacements take weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for a passport without an appointment in Yulee?
No, all Nassau facilities require appointments due to high demand. Use USPS or State Department tools to book [11][13].

How long does it take to get a passport from Yulee?
Routine: 6-8 weeks; expedited: 2-3 weeks. Times vary; do not count on peak-season guarantees [14].

What if my child’s passport is for a school trip?
Use DS-11; both parents needed. Expedite if departure nears 14 days [5].

Can I renew my passport at the Yulee Post Office?
Renewals by mail preferred if eligible; post office for DS-11 only [3].

My Florida birth certificate is short form—will it work?
No; long form required for citizenship proof. Order from Florida Vital Statistics [8].

What if I need a passport for a cruise from Jacksonville?
Passport best; birth cert + DL suffices for closed-loop, but upgrade for flexibility [16].

How do I handle a name change after marriage in Florida?
Marriage certificate + DS-82/DS-5504 by mail if eligible [6].

Is there a passport fair in Nassau County?
Occasional events at clerks or libraries; check travel.state.gov/events [17].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Apply In Person (DS-11)
[3]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail (DS-82)
[4]U.S. Department of State - Lost or Stolen Passport
[5]U.S. Department of State - Children Under 16
[6]U.S. Department of State - Corrections, Name Changes
[7]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service
[8]Florida Department of Health - Birth Certificates
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[10]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[11]USPS - Passport Services Locator
[12]Nassau County Clerk of Court - Passports
[13]U.S. Department of State - Acceptance Facility Search
[14]U.S. Department of State - Application Status
[15]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[16]U.S. Department of State - Cruises
[17]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fairs

AK

Aaron Kramer

Passport Services Expert & Founder

Aaron Kramer is the founder of GovComplete and a passport services expert with over 15 years of experience in the U.S. passport industry. Throughout his career, Aaron has helped thousands of travelers navigate the complexities of passport applications, renewals, and expedited processing. His deep understanding of State Department regulations, acceptance facility operations, and emergency travel documentation has made him a trusted resource for both first-time applicants and seasoned travelers. Aaron's mission is to make government services accessible and stress-free for everyone.

15+ Years Experience Expedited Processing State Dept. Regulations