Brandywine, MD Passport Guide: Apply, Renew, Facilities

Getting a Passport in Brandywine, MD

Brandywine, located in Prince George's County, Maryland, sits in a region with robust international travel patterns. Residents frequently travel abroad for business, particularly to Europe and Asia, and tourism hotspots like the Caribbean or South America. Seasonal peaks occur in spring and summer for vacations, as well as winter breaks for holidays. Students from nearby universities and exchange programs add to demand, alongside urgent trips for family emergencies or last-minute opportunities. These factors create high demand at local passport acceptance facilities, especially during peak times, leading to limited appointments [1].

This guide provides a user-focused overview for obtaining, renewing, or replacing a U.S. passport in Brandywine. It covers eligibility, required documents, local facilities, common pitfalls, and processing details. Maryland residents must apply in person for first-time passports or use specific mail-in options for renewals. Always verify current requirements, as they can change [2].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right service prevents delays and rejected applications. Here's how to decide:

First-Time Passport

• For U.S. citizens age 16 and older who have never held a U.S. passport book or card (even if expired long ago). Also required for all children under 16 (both parents/guardians typically needed) and name changes without legal documents if your name already matches current U.S. government records (e.g., driver's license, Social Security card).

• Must apply in person at a Maryland passport acceptance facility (like post offices, libraries, or clerks of court). Use Form DS-11—download from travel.state.gov, complete by hand or online (print single-sided), but do NOT sign until the agent watches and instructs you. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee); track status online later.

• Required documents checklist (originals + photocopies on plain white paper, front/back):

  Document	Details
  Proof of citizenship	Original birth certificate (raised seal for MD births), naturalization certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad + photocopy.
  Photo ID	Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID + photocopy. If name differs from citizenship proof, add linking docs like marriage certificate.
  Passport photo	One 2x2" color photo (taken <6 months ago, white background, neutral expression, head 1-1⅜" tall—no uniforms, hats, sunglasses unless medical/religious).
  Fees	Application fee (check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"); execution fee (cash/check to facility). Use usps.com or travel.state.gov for exact amounts.

• Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Signing DS-11 beforehand (form rejected—start over).
  • Poor photos (smiling, glare, wrong size, home-printed—use CVS/Walgreens or AAA for $15, specs at travel.state.gov).
  • No photocopies or low-quality scans (must be legible, same size as original).
  • Expired docs or mismatches (e.g., maiden name on birth cert but not ID—bring marriage cert).
  • Forgetting parental consent for minors (DS-3053 notarized if one parent absent).

• Decision guidance: Confirm eligibility first—if your prior passport expired <15 years ago, undamaged, and name/ID match, renew by mail with DS-82 (faster/cheaper). Lost/stolen? Report via Form DS-64, then new DS-11. Name change with legal docs (divorce decree)? Still DS-11 unless renewing. For urgent travel (<2 weeks), seek life-or-death expedite at a MD passport agency (appointment only). Start 10+ weeks early to avoid rush fees/delays.

Renewal

• Eligible if: your passport was issued when you were 16+, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you're not changing your name (or have legal proof).
• Mail your application using Form DS-82 if it meets criteria. Otherwise, apply as first-time.
• Not eligible? Use DS-11 in person.

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• Report lost or stolen passports immediately using Form DS-64 (online at state.gov for fastest processing or mail). This creates an official record to prevent misuse and fraud. Common mistake: Delaying the report, which can lead to application delays or security holds. Tip: Print and keep your confirmation for your records.

• Choose the right application form based on eligibility:

  Situation	Form	Method	Key Decision Guidance
  Eligible for renewal (passport issued at 16+, within last 15 years, no major name/data changes)	DS-82	Mail (include DS-64 if lost/stolen)	Use if you have your old passport or can explain loss/theft; saves time and a trip. Check full eligibility on state.gov to avoid rejection.
  Ineligible for renewal, first-time, under 16, or damaged	DS-11	In person at a passport acceptance facility	Required for new issuances; bring proof of citizenship, ID, photo, and fees. Common mistake: Attempting mail with DS-82 when ineligible—leads to return and restart.

• Damaged passports: Invalid for travel or renewal—treat as lost and use DS-11 in person (submit damaged book with application). Common mistake: Trying to mail with DS-82 or repair it yourself; always results in denial. Tip: Minor water damage or tears still qualify as damaged; err on the side of DS-11 for speed.

General tips for Brandywine, MD residents: Plan for 2 photos (2x2", recent), fees ($130+ adult first-time/book, check current), and 6-8 week processing (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee). Use state.gov tools to verify docs and track status. Apply early to avoid rush fees or travel disruptions.

Additional Passports

• Multiple passports for frequent travelers with conflicting visas: U.S. citizens in Brandywine, MD, who travel internationally often (e.g., 4+ trips per year) and hold visas that cannot be transferred or conflict across trips, may qualify for a second passport. Submit a separate DS-11 application (not a renewal) along with a detailed written statement justifying the need—include your recent travel history, upcoming confirmed trips, copies of visas, and proof of frequent business/leisure travel. Expect processing similar to a new passport (6-8 weeks routine or expedited).

  Practical clarity: This keeps your primary passport with visas valid while the second is processed or used for new entries. Only one passport can be valid at a time; the second is limited-validity (typically 4 years for adults).

  Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Submitting a DS-82 renewal form instead of DS-11—must be a new application.
  • Vague justification (e.g., "I travel a lot") without specifics like itineraries or employer letters.
  • Applying without exhausting single-passport options, like visa transfers.

  Decision guidance: Apply if visa cancellations would disrupt imminent travel or business. Check eligibility first via official State Department tools; not for convenience alone. If denied, appeal with more evidence or wait for travel needs to intensify.

For Minors Under 16

• Always in person with DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear or provide consent.

Use the State Department's online wizard to confirm: travel.state.gov wizard [3].

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals; photocopies won't suffice. Key items:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Certified birth certificate (raised seal), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Maryland vital records can issue birth certificates [4].
• Proof of Identity: Driver's license, government ID. Name must match citizenship doc exactly.
• Photo: One 2x2 inch color photo (details below).
• Forms: DS-11 (in person), DS-82 (mail renewal).
• Fees: Paid separately—check or money order to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee; cash/check to facility for execution fee [5].

For name changes: Court order, marriage certificate. Minors: Parental IDs and consent.

Download forms from travel.state.gov/forms [6]. Prince George's County Clerk issues marriage docs if needed [7].

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or In-Person Applications

Follow this checklist to prepare before visiting a facility:

1. Confirm eligibility: Use State Department wizard [3]. Decide DS-11 vs. DS-82.
2. Gather citizenship proof: Order birth certificate from MD Vital Records if needed (allow 2-4 weeks standard) [4].
3. Get a photo: At CVS, Walgreens, or USPS (specs below). Recent (within 6 months), no glasses unless medically required.
4. Complete form: Fill DS-11 but do not sign.
5. Calculate fees: Execution fee ($35 adults/$30 minors) + application fee ($130 book adult/$100 minor). Expedite extra [5].
6. Book appointment: Call facilities; slots fill fast in spring/summer.
7. Arrive early: Bring all originals. Both parents for minors.
8. Pay fees: Separate payments.
9. Track status: Online after 7-10 days [8].

Pro Tip: Photocopy everything before submitting.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections [2]. Specs [9]:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Color, plain white/cream background.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, full face view.
• No uniforms, hats (unless religious/medical), glasses (unless prescription and no glare), shadows, glare, or headphones.
• Taken within 6 months.

Local options in Brandywine:

• Brandywine Post Office (16200 Crain Hwy, Brandywine, MD 20613): Offers photos [10].
• Nearby: Walmart or CVS in Waldorf/Upper Marlboro.

Rejections spike during peaks; get multiples.

Local Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Brandywine

Brandywine's post office handles applications by appointment. High demand means book 4-6 weeks ahead, especially spring/summer or winter breaks.

Use USPS locator for updates: tools.usps.com/find-location.htm?locationType=passport-acceptance-facility [12]. No regional passport agencies nearby; closest in Washington, DC for life-or-death emergencies (within 14 days) [13].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 4-6 weeks (in-person to agency). No hard guarantees—peaks add 2-4 weeks [14].

Warning: Avoid relying on last-minute during peaks (spring/summer, Dec-Jan). High MD travel volume overwhelms systems. Check status weekly [8]. Confusion: Expedited ≠ urgent service; urgent requires agency visit with proof (itinerary, death cert).

Mail renewals to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 [15].

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

All under 16 need DS-11 in person. Both parents/guardians must:

• Appear with child, or
• Submit notarized DS-3053 consent from absent parent.

Photos: No parental info printed on back. Fees lower. Students/exchange programs: Factor 8-10 weeks for visas post-passport.

Urgent family trips (funerals): Gather proof early.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Renewals by Mail

1. Verify eligibility: Last passport <15 years old, issued at 16+, undamaged.
2. Complete DS-82: Sign/dated.
3. Include old passport: Do not use if damaged.
4. Photo: Affix to form.
5. Fees: Check/money order to "U.S. Department of State."
6. Mail: Use USPS Priority ($19+ tracking). Address above [15].
7. Track: Online [8].

Invalid? Application returned.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Brandywine

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and replacements. These include common public venues such as post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Brandywine, you'll find such facilities scattered across local communities, often in central or easily accessible spots. To locate them, use the official State Department website's search tool or check with local government directories for the most current listings.

When visiting a passport acceptance facility, expect a straightforward but thorough process. Arrive with a completed DS-11 application form (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals), two identical passport photos meeting strict specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for fees—typically a check or money order for the government portion and cash, check, or card for the facility's execution fee. Agents will review your documents, administer the oath, collect signatures, and seal the application in an envelope for mailing to a passport agency. Processing times vary from standard (6-8 weeks) to expedited options, but facilities do not issue passports on-site; they forward everything for processing. Be prepared for potential wait times and bring photocopies of all documents.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, on Mondays following weekends, and mid-day hours when local foot traffic peaks. To minimize delays, consider visiting early in the morning, late afternoon, or mid-week (Tuesdays through Thursdays). Always verify facility details online beforehand, as availability can change. If offered, schedule an appointment to streamline your visit—many locations now provide this option. Pack patience and all required items to avoid backtracking, and double-check eligibility rules on the State Department's site for a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Brandywine?
No local same-day service. Nearest agency in DC for qualifying urgents only [13].

What if my travel is in 3 weeks?
Expedite at acceptance facility. Still 2-3 weeks; monitor peaks [14].

How do I get a Maryland birth certificate?
Order online/via mail from MD Vital Records; raised seal required [4].

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake immediately per specs [9]. Facilities return apps if invalid.

Is my passport renewable if name changed?
No for mail; use DS-11 with proof (marriage cert, etc.) [2].

Students: How long for group travel?
Apply 3+ months early; peaks delay [1].

Lost passport abroad?
Contact U.S. embassy; apply for replacement upon return [16].

Can I track my application?
Yes, after 7-10 days at travel.state.gov/status [8].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Application & Passport Renewal
[3]U.S. Department of State - Forms
[4]Maryland Vital Records
[5]U.S. Department of State - Fees
[6]U.S. Department of State - Download Forms
[7]Prince George's County Circuit Court Clerk
[8]U.S. Department of State - Check Status
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[10]USPS - Brandywine Post Office
[11]Prince George's County Clerk
[12]USPS Passport Facility Locator
[13]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[14]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[15]U.S. Department of State - Mailing Addresses
[16]U.S. Department of State - Lost/Stolen Passports

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