How to Get a Passport in Camp Springs, MD: Steps & Facilities

By GovComplete Team • Published on: January 15, 2026

Location: Camp Springs, MD

How to Get a Passport in Camp Springs, MD: Steps & Facilities

Getting a Passport in Camp Springs, MD

Residents of Camp Springs, Maryland, in Prince George's County, frequently require passports due to the area's high international travel volume. Maryland sees robust business travel from government contractors and professionals commuting to nearby Washington, D.C., alongside tourism to Europe and the Caribbean. Seasonal peaks occur during spring and summer vacations, as well as winter breaks, when families and students head abroad. Exchange programs at local universities like the University of Maryland further drive demand, and urgent scenarios—such as last-minute family emergencies or job relocations—add pressure. However, high demand often leads to limited appointments at acceptance facilities, so planning ahead is essential [1].

Common hurdles include confusion over expedited services (for travel in 2-3 weeks) versus urgent travel (within 14 days, requiring in-person proof at a passport agency), photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions, incomplete documents (especially for minors needing both parents' consent), and errors in renewal eligibility—many mistakenly use first-time forms when mail renewal qualifies [2]. Processing times vary and can extend during peaks; the U.S. Department of State warns against relying on last-minute service in busy seasons [3]. This guide provides clear steps, drawing from official sources to help you navigate the process efficiently.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to select the right form and application method. Use the U.S. Department of State's online tool for confirmation [4].

First-Time Passport: Required if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16; also for lost, stolen, or damaged passports. Apply in person at an acceptance facility [5].
Renewal by Mail: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, is undamaged, was issued at age 16 or older, and is in your current name (or you can document a name change). Use Form DS-82—no in-person visit needed [6].
Renewal In Person: Necessary if your passport doesn't meet mail criteria (e.g., issued over 15 years ago or damaged). Use Form DS-11 [5].
Replacement for Lost/Stolen: Report it via Form DS-64 (free if stolen), then apply as first-time or renewal based on your situation [7].
Child Passport (Under 16): Always in person with Form DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent [8].

For name changes due to marriage/divorce, include certified documents regardless of method [9].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Camp Springs

Camp Springs lacks a passport agency (those handle urgent cases only), so start at a passport acceptance facility for routine or expedited service. Use the official locator: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ [10]. Common options in Prince George's County include:

USPS Camp Springs Post Office (5215 Marlboro Pike, Camp Springs, MD 20746): Offers appointments; call 301-249-7410 to book [11].
Clinton Post Office (7611 Old Branch Ave, Clinton, MD 20735): Nearby, high-volume facility [11].
Prince George's County Clerk of Circuit Court (14735 Main St, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772): County seat option for in-person applications [12].

Book early—slots fill quickly during peaks. Fees are paid separately: application to State Department ($130 adult/$100 child book), execution fee to facility ($35) [13]. Some USPS locations accept credit cards; others require checks/money orders.

For travel in 14 days or less with proof (e.g., itinerary), visit a passport agency like the one in Washington, D.C. (by appointment only via 1-877-487-2778) [14]. No routine services there.

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

Follow this checklist for Form DS-11 applications at acceptance facilities. Download forms from https://pptform.state.gov/ [15]. Double-check completeness to avoid delays.

Fill Out Form DS-11: Complete online (don't sign until instructed) or by hand in black ink. Include Social Security number [16].
Get Passport Photos: Two identical 2x2-inch color photos on white background, taken within 6 months. Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches; no glasses, hats, uniforms (unless religious/medical with statement), shadows, or glare. Many Walgreens/CVS near Camp Springs offer service ($15); verify specs [17].
Gather Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original + photocopy of birth certificate (MD vital records: https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/vitalrecords/ [18]), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For births in MD, order certified copies online or from Prince George's County Health Dept. [19].
Provide ID: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID + photocopies. Name must match application [20].
For Minors Under 16:
- Both parents/guardians present with ID.
- Or notarized Form DS-3053 from absent parent.
- Court order if sole custody [8].
Pay Fees: Check/money order for State Dept. fee (payable to "U.S. Department of State"); cash/check/credit for execution fee. Expedite: +$60 [13].
Schedule Appointment: Call facility; arrive 15 minutes early with all items.
Track Status: After submission, use https://passportstatus.state.gov/ [21].

Renewal by Mail Checklist (Form DS-82):

Complete DS-82; sign only after printing.
Include old passport + photos + fees ($130 adult book).
Mail to address on form instructions.
No execution fee [6].

Passport Photo Guide to Avoid Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections [17]. Use facilities compliant with State Department rules:

Dimensions: 2x2 inches; head size 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.
Background: Plain white/off-white; no patterns.
Lighting: Even, neutral expression, eyes open.
Attire: Everyday clothing; no uniforms.
Common Errors: Glare on glasses (remove if possible), shadows under eyes/chin, red-eye from flash.

Local options: FedEx Office in Clinton or Walmart Photo in Camp Springs. Get extras—rejections delay processing [17].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail time included) [3]. Expedited (+$60, 2-3 weeks): Request at acceptance facility [22]. Urgent (14 days or less): Life-or-death emergency only at agencies [23]. During MD's peak seasons (spring/summer, winter), add 2-4 weeks; track federally declared holidays [3]. No guarantees—monitor status online.

Mail renewals: Same times; use Priority Mail Express for speed [6].

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Children under 16 need in-person applications with parental involvement to prevent child trafficking risks [8]. Recent MD law changes emphasize certified birth certificates from vital records offices [18]. Students on exchange programs should apply 3-6 months early due to high fall demand.

Tracking and Common Pitfalls

After applying, enter your details at https://passportstatus.state.gov/ [21]. Pitfalls: Incomplete forms, wrong fees, poor photos, or peak-season procrastination. If replacing a lost passport abroad, contact U.S. embassy [24].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Camp Springs

Passport acceptance facilities serve as authorized locations where individuals can submit their passport applications for processing by the U.S. Department of State. These facilities do not issue passports directly; instead, staff verify your identity, review your application for completeness, administer the oath, and forward your documents securely to a regional passport agency. Common types in and around Camp Springs include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings within Prince George's County and nearby areas. To locate options, use the official State Department website's search tool by entering your ZIP code or city—this provides a list of nearby facilities with details on services offered.

When visiting, arrive prepared with a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants) or DS-82 (for renewals), two passport photos meeting specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees (typically via check or money order). Expect a brief interview to confirm details, and note that photos are not always available on-site, so bring your own. Processing times vary: routine service takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited options (extra fee) aim for 2-3 weeks. Facilities may require appointments, especially for larger groups or during high-demand periods, so check their policies in advance.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and family reunions. Mondays and mid-week days tend to be busier due to weekend backlog, while mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently experience walk-in rushes. Weekends, if available, can also draw crowds.

To navigate this, schedule appointments early via the facility's website or phone when possible, and aim for early mornings or late afternoons to minimize waits. Always verify requirements beforehand, as policies can change, and consider applying well in advance of travel dates—ideally 3-6 months—to avoid stress. For urgent needs, explore expedited services or passport agencies in larger cities like Washington, D.C., but be aware of eligibility rules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I expedite a renewal by mail?
No, mail renewals are routine only. For faster, apply in person [6].

How do I get a birth certificate for Prince George's County?
Order from MD Vital Records online, by mail, or in-person at Upper Marlboro Health Dept. Needs raised seal [18][19].

What's the difference between passport book and card?
Book valid for air/sea/land; card for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean (cheaper: $30 adult/$15 child) [25].

Do I need an appointment at USPS?
Yes for most; walk-ins rare and limited [11].

Can I use my old passport while waiting?
No for international travel; it will be canceled upon new application [26].

What if my travel is in 3 weeks?
Expedite at acceptance facility; if under 14 days with proof, passport agency appointment [14].

How do I report a lost passport?
Submit Form DS-64 online or with new application [7].

Sources

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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