How to Get a Passport in Baltimore, MD: Facilities, Steps, Tips

Getting a Passport in Baltimore, MD

Baltimore residents frequently travel internationally for business, tourism, and family visits, with peaks in spring and summer for vacations, winter breaks for holidays, and year-round activity from students in exchange programs or urgent last-minute trips due to work or emergencies. Maryland's proximity to major airports like BWI and international hubs supports this, but high demand at passport acceptance facilities often leads to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons. This guide provides a straightforward path to obtaining or renewing a U.S. passport, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you navigate requirements, local options, and common pitfalls like photo rejections or documentation errors.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right process saves time and avoids rejections. Use this section to identify your situation:

• First-time applicant: You've never had a U.S. passport. Apply in person at an acceptance facility using Form DS-11. This includes most minors under 16.[1]
• Renewal: Your previous passport was issued when you were 16 or older, you still have it, and it meets criteria like being undamaged and issued within the last 15 years. Most adults (16+) can renew by mail using Form DS-82, a simpler option without an in-person visit.[1]
• Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged passport: Report it via Form DS-64 (free if stolen), then apply for a replacement. If you have the old passport, bring it; otherwise, provide a statement. Use DS-11 in person if it's your only prior passport or doesn't qualify for mail renewal.[1]
• Name change, correction, or multiple passports: Use DS-5504 by mail if within one year of issuance; otherwise, DS-82 or DS-11.[1]
• Child (under 16): Always in person with both parents/guardians using DS-11; stricter rules apply.[1]

If unsure, check the State Department's online wizard.[2] Baltimore-area applicants often face confusion here—many try to renew with DS-11 when mail is possible, or vice versa, leading to extra trips.

Gather Required Documents

Incomplete paperwork is a top rejection reason, especially for minors or renewals. Start early, as obtaining birth certificates or IDs can take weeks.

For First-Time or In-Person Applications (DS-11)

• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (not photocopy; hospital versions often insufficient), naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. passport. Order from Maryland Vital Records if needed (processing 4-6 weeks standard).[3]
• Proof of identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or military ID. Maryland MVA-issued IDs work.[4]
• Photocopy of each: On plain white 8.5x11" paper.
• Form DS-11: Fill out but do not sign until in front of the agent.[1]
• Passport photo: One 2x2" color photo (details below).
• Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (varies by facility) for adult book; pay execution fee by check/money order to facility, application fee by check/money order to State Department. Cards accepted at some post offices.[1]

For Renewals by Mail (DS-82)

Renewals by mail are ideal for eligible Baltimore-area residents who aren't traveling soon (processing takes 6-8 weeks standard; expedited adds 2-3 weeks and $60). Confirm eligibility first: Your current passport must be undamaged, issued when you were 16+, not reported lost/stolen, and valid or expired <5 years ago. U.S. citizen/resident. If ineligible (e.g., first passport, child, damaged book), use in-person instead—search travel.state.gov for nearby acceptance facilities.

Step-by-step prep:

• Download/print/sign Form DS-82 from travel.state.gov (use black ink; do not mark "expedite" unless paying extra).
• Your most recent passport (they'll return it separately in a new envelope—common mistake: forgetting to include it leads to rejection).
• One new passport photo: 2x2 inches (exactly), color, white/cream/off-white background, head 1-1⅜ inches, no glasses/selfies/hat unless religious/medical (prove with note/docs). Tip: Use CVS/Walgreens photo services for compliance; common rejection: poor lighting/shadows.
• Name change docs if applicable: Certified copy (not photocopy) of marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Decision guidance: For Maryland marriages, request certified copy from Circuit Court Clerk or MD Vital Records; originals often suffice but certified avoids delays.
• Fees: $130 adult book (verify current at travel.state.gov—may change); check/money order to "U.S. Department of State". No credit cards. Common mistake: Wrong amount/payee or personal check (use USPS money order if no cashier's check). Add $19.53 optional execution fee? No—mail skips it.

Mailing tips: Use USPS Priority Mail (tracking required; ~$9), stiff envelope. Include self-addressed prepaid return envelope for passport/docs. Track status online post-2 weeks. Decision guidance: Urgent? Expedite +1-2 day delivery ($21.36) or go in-person. Rejections common (20%+); double-check photo/form completeness.[1]

For Minors Under 16

• Both parents' presence or notarized consent from absent parent (Form DS-3053).
• Child's birth certificate showing parents' names.
• Parents' IDs and photocopies.
• Fees: $100 application + $35 execution.[1]

Pro tip: Scan everything digitally before submitting. Baltimore parents in exchange programs or families with dual custody often miss consent forms, causing delays.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections in busy areas like Baltimore due to shadows from overhead lights, glare on glasses, or wrong size.[5] Specs:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Color photo on thin photo paper, white/cream/off-white background.
• Taken within 6 months, neutral expression, eyes open.
• No uniforms, hats (unless religious/medical), glasses (unless medically necessary with no glare), or headphones.[5]

Where to get them in Baltimore:

• USPS locations (often $15, during passport appt).
• CVS, Walgreens, or FedEx Office (check store locators).[6]
• Professional studios for guaranteed compliance.

Digital previews help; reject selfies.

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Baltimore

No passport agency in Baltimore for expedited drop-ins—nearest is Washington Passport Agency (by appointment only for urgent cases).[7] Use acceptance facilities for routine service. Book via the State Department's locator; slots fill fast in peak seasons (March-June, Nov-Dec).[8]

Prominent Baltimore options:

• Baltimore Main Post Office: 900 E. Fayette St., Baltimore, MD 21233. Mon-Fri 10am-4pm (call 410-347-4202).[9]
• Mondawmin Post Office: 2301 Liberty Heights Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215.[9]
• ** Herring Run Post Office**: 5700 Newbury St., Baltimore, MD 21209.[9]
• Baltimore City Circuit Court Clerk's Office: 111 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21202 (Clerk of Court handles passports; confirm hours).[10]

Search full list and book: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/. Expect 4-6 week waits for appointments during highs; arrive 15 min early with all docs.

Step-by-Step Checklist: New Adult Passport (First-Time or Replacement)

Use this printable checklist for DS-11 applications:

1. Confirm eligibility: Never had passport or doesn't qualify for mail renewal? Yes → Proceed.
2. Gather citizenship proof: Order birth cert if needed (allow 4+ weeks).[3]
3. Get photo: Compliant 2x2" from approved vendor.
4. Complete DS-11: Online fillable PDF, print single-sided; do not sign.[1]
5. Photocopy ID and citizenship docs: Front/back on white paper.
6. Calculate/pay fees: Check for State Dept ($130+), cash/check/card for execution ($35).
7. Book facility appointment: Use locator; aim 6-8 weeks pre-travel.[8]
8. Attend appointment: Bring all originals/photocopies. Sign DS-11 on-site.
9. Track status: Online after 5-7 days.[11]
10. Receive passport: 6-8 weeks routine; mail to your address.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Minor Passport or Renewal

For Children Under 16 (DS-11, In-Person Only)

1. Both parents/guardians attend or get DS-3053 notarized from absent one.
2. Child's birth cert (listing both parents).
3. Parents' IDs/photocopies.
4. Child's photo (no parent holding).
5. Fees: $100 + $35.
6. Book appt; both sign on-site.
7. Same tracking as adult.

For Adult Renewals (DS-82, Mail)

1. Verify eligibility: Passport <15 yrs old, issued at 16+, undamaged, in hand.
2. New photo.
3. Fill DS-82 online, print single-sided.
4. Fees check to State Dept.
5. Mail via USPS Priority (tracked): Old passport, photo, form, fee to address on DS-82.[1]
6. Track online.[11]

Expedited and Urgent Services

Routine processing: 6-8 weeks (no guarantees; peaks longer).[1] Expedite for 2-3 weeks (+$60, select on form/facility).[1] For travel in 14 days:

• Life/death emergency (<72 hrs): Call agency for appt.[7]
• Urgent travel (2-14 days): Regional agency appt + proof of travel (itinerary, not just ticket).[1]

Washington Passport Agency (D.C., ~1 hr drive): 202-647-0512; book 14+ days out only. No walk-ins. Don't count on last-minute during spring break or holidays—many Baltimore travelers miss flights yearly. Private expediters exist but add $200+.[12]

Common Challenges in Baltimore and How to Overcome Them

High BWI traffic means seasonal rushes; book appts 1-2 months ahead. Photo issues: Local lighting causes glare—use natural light studios. Minors: Incomplete consent delays families in student programs. Renewals: Wrong form common; use wizard.[2] Birth certs: Maryland issues abstracts (not accepted)—request long-form.[3] Track everything; re-entry fees apply for errors.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Baltimore

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations designated by the U.S. Department of State to handle new passport applications and renewals for first-time applicants or those needing in-person services. These facilities do not process passports on-site; instead, trained staff verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county circuit courts, and municipal clerk offices.

In the Baltimore area, such facilities are scattered throughout Baltimore City and nearby counties, including Baltimore County to the north, Anne Arundel County to the south, Howard County to the west, and Carroll County further out. Urban post offices and central libraries often serve denser populations, while suburban and rural county offices provide options for those outside the city core. Travelers from surrounding areas like Towson, Annapolis, or Columbia can find convenient spots without long drives. Always confirm eligibility and requirements via the official State Department website before visiting, as participation can vary.

Expect a straightforward process: arrive with a completed but unsigned application, two passport photos, original proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment (checks or money orders preferred; fees go partly to the facility and partly to the government). Staff will review documents, administer an oath, and seal your application. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options (2-3 weeks) available for an extra fee. For life-or-death emergencies or urgent travel within 14 days, contact a passport agency, though Baltimore-area applicants may need to travel to Washington, D.C., or Philadelphia.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer vacation periods, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Weekdays, especially Mondays, often bring crowds catching up after weekends, while mid-day hours (roughly 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) are typically busiest due to working schedules. To avoid long waits, plan visits for early mornings, late afternoons, or mid-week days like Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Many locations offer appointments—book ahead online or by phone if possible. Arrive prepared with all documents to minimize delays, and check facility websites or call for current crowd levels and policies, as volumes can fluctuate unpredictably. Patience and flexibility help ensure a smoother experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a passport in Baltimore?
Routine: 6-8 weeks processing + mailing; expedited 2-3 weeks. Facilities add appt wait (weeks in peaks). No hard timelines—plan 3+ months ahead.[1]

Can I get a passport same-day in Baltimore?
No local agency. Nearest Washington offers appts for verified urgents only (travel proof required). Routine same-day impossible.[7]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60 extra): Faster routine (2-3 weeks), available at facilities. Urgent: Agency appt for <14 days travel; not guaranteed.[1]

Do I need an appointment at USPS in Baltimore?
Yes for passport services; walk-ins rare and risky. Book online.[9]

My child has dual citizenship—any issues?
Use U.S. birth docs; foreign passports don't replace U.S. requirements. Both parents still needed.[1]

What if my passport is lost abroad?
Contact U.S. embassy; temporary issued. Replace upon return via DS-11/DS-64.[13]

Can I renew online?
Limited beta for eligible renewals (recent passport, no changes); check portal. Most Baltimore users mail DS-82.[14]

Birth certificate from Maryland—where and how?
Vital Records, 6550 Reisterstown Rd, Baltimore (or online/mail). Long-form certified copy required ($24+).[3]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply for a Passport
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Application Wizard
[3]Maryland Department of Health - Vital Records
[4]Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[6]USPS - Passport Photo Services
[7]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[8]U.S. Department of State - Acceptance Facility Locator
[9]USPS Location Finder
[10]Maryland Courts - Baltimore City Circuit Court
[11]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[12]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service
[13]U.S. Department of State - Lost or Stolen Passport
[14]U.S. Department of State - Online Renewal