Getting a Passport in Drum Point, MD: Steps & Facilities

By GovComplete Team • Published on: February 4, 2026

Location: Drum Point, MD

Getting a Passport in Drum Point, MD

Drum Point, a small waterfront community in Calvert County, Maryland, sits along the Patuxent River, making it a gateway for residents who frequently travel internationally for business, tourism, or family visits. Maryland sees high volumes of passport applications due to its proximity to major airports like BWI and Dulles, busy ports, and seasonal travel spikes in spring/summer for vacations and winter breaks for holidays. Students participating in exchange programs and professionals handling last-minute business trips add to the demand. However, local acceptance facilities often face high demand, leading to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons. Common hurdles include photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions; incomplete paperwork for minors; and confusion over renewal forms or expedited options versus true urgent needs within 14 days.[1]

This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, tailored to Drum Point residents. Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can change. Peak seasons (spring/summer, winter) mean longer waits, so plan ahead—avoid relying on last-minute processing.[2]

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing the right path saves time and avoids rejections. Use this section to match your situation.

First-Time Applicants

If you've never held a U.S. passport, are applying for a child under 16, or your prior passport was issued before age 16 or more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility. This covers most adults seeking their first adult passport.[1]

Quick Decision Guide

Yes, apply in person if: No prior passport; child's first passport (under 16); old passport from childhood or expired >15 years ago.
No, consider renewal if: You have a prior passport (issued at 16+ and within last 15 years) – see renewal section for mail-in option.
Unsure? Check your passport's issue date and your age at issuance; use the State Department's online wizard for confirmation.

Practical Steps & Local Tips for Drum Point, MD Area

Gather documents early: Original proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization cert – photocopies OK for some), valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID), and two identical 2x2" color photos (taken within 6 months, neutral background; many pharmacies or libraries offer this service nearby).
Complete Form DS-11: Fill it out but do not sign until instructed at the facility.
Book ahead: Facilities in Calvert County and nearby areas book up fast, especially spring/summer for beach travel – call or check online availability 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Expect 1-2 hour visit: Bring all family members if applying together; minors need both parents present (or consent form/notarized statement).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mailing DS-11: First-timers cannot mail or upload – must appear in person to verify identity.
Wrong photos/ID: Photos too old, casual selfies, or expired ID will delay you; facilities often reject them.
Incomplete citizenship proof: Forgetting originals or seals – certified copies must show raised/embossed seal.
Underestimating time: Processing takes 6-8 weeks (or 2-3 expedited); don't wait until vacation eve.

Plan for a short drive to the nearest facility and apply 3+ months before travel for stress-free coastal getaways!

Renewals

You may qualify to renew by mail if:

Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.
It was issued when you were age 16 or older.
It's undamaged and in your possession.
Your name matches exactly (or you have a name change document).

Use Form DS-82. Do not mail renewals if any condition fails—you must apply in person.[3]

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

Report loss or theft immediately to prevent identity theft and misuse: Use the online form at travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778 (24/7). Provide details like passport number, issue date, and circumstances. Common mistake: Delaying the report, which complicates travel proofs and insurance claims—do this first, even before applying for replacement.

Decide your application method based on eligibility (check travel.state.gov tools for quick quiz):

Renewal by mail (Form DS-82): Eligible only if passport is undamaged, issued within 15 years, you were 16+ at issuance, name/gender/signature unchanged, and you have a U.S. mailing address. Mail to National Passport Processing Center with photo, fees, and old passport (if recovered).
- Decision guidance: Choose this for speed/cost savings (~$130, 6-8 weeks); ideal if damage is minor/cosmetic and all criteria met.
- Common mistake: Submitting DS-82 for any damage/loss—theft; it will be rejected, forcing restart with DS-11.
New application in person (Form DS-11): Required for lost, stolen, damaged passports, or if ineligible for DS-82. Treat like a first-time application at a passport acceptance facility (e.g., post offices, libraries, or county clerks—search by ZIP at travel.state.gov).
- Practical steps: Bring proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, etc.), photo ID, new passport photo (2x2", recent), fees (~$130+ execution fee), and Form DS-64 (notarized statement) or your own signed/dated explanation of loss/theft/damage.
- Decision guidance: Default to DS-11 for urgency or ineligibility; add expedited service ($60 extra, 2-3 weeks) or urgent travel service if needed within 14 days.
- Common mistake: Forgetting the statement or using an old photo—facilities reject incomplete apps on-site.

MD-specific tips for Drum Point area: Facilities are often at local post offices or county offices; book appointments online to avoid long waits. Allow 1-2 hours; go early. Track status online post-submission. For urgent travel (e.g., cruises from nearby ports), prove emergency with itinerary.

Other Cases: Name Changes, Data Corrections, or Multiple Passports

Name change: Provide marriage/divorce/court order docs with your application.
Second passport: For frequent travelers needing pages for visas, apply separately in person.[1]

Unsure? Use the State Department's online wizard.[5]

Gather Your Required Documents

Preparation prevents delays. Incomplete applications are a top rejection reason, especially for minors missing both parents' consent.[1]

For Adults (First-Time or Replacement)

Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until instructed).[6]
Proof of U.S. citizenship (original or certified copy): birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Photocopies required.
Valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID) and photocopy.
Passport photo.
Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (payable to acceptance facility) + $60 expedited if needed. Personal checks accepted at most spots.[7]

For Renewals by Mail

Renewals by mail (using Form DS-82) are ideal for Drum Point, MD residents who meet strict eligibility: your passport was issued when you were 16+, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, hasn't been reported lost/stolen, and you live in the U.S. Decision guidance: Choose mail to avoid travel to acceptance facilities (saves time/gas if eligible); go in-person if your passport is damaged, name changed significantly, or you need it faster than 6-8 weeks processing.

Form DS-82: Download/print from travel.state.gov. Complete all fields legibly (use black ink), sign/datesection 36. Common mistake: Omitting travel plans in section 7 or forgetting spouse/children details—double-check against your old passport.
Current passport: Submit your most recent one (they'll cancel and return it with your new one). Common mistake: Submitting a passport that doesn't qualify (e.g., damaged pages, water exposure from coastal humidity)—inspect closely first.
Photo: One identical 2x2-inch U.S.-spec color photo (taken within 6 months, white/light background, neutral expression, no glasses/headwear unless religious/medical). Practical tip: Local pharmacies or big-box stores in MD offer passport photo services cheaply; print extras. Common mistake: Incorrect size (measure head from chin to top: 1-1⅜ inches) or smiling—use a mirror/template to verify.
Fees: $130 adult book renewal (personal check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State"—no cash/cards). Add $60 expedited/$19.53 1-2 day return shipping if urgent. Practical clarity: Write your full name/ DOB/phone on check memo; confirm exact fees/current options on state.gov (they update occasionally). Common mistake: Wrong payee name or amount—use fee calculator online.

Mail everything flat in a sturdy envelope via USPS Priority (trackable, ~$9); include self-addressed prepaid return envelope for convenience. Expect 6-8 weeks standard (longer in peak summer travel season for MD coastal areas). Track status online with confirmation number.

For Minors Under 16

Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053).[8] Child's citizenship proof, parents' IDs, and court orders if sole custody. Fees: $100 application + $35 execution.

Photocopy everything on standard 8.5x11 paper.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for many rejections in busy areas like Calvert County. Specs are strict: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, eyes open.[9]

Pitfalls in Drum Point's Lighting:

Glare/shadows from indoor lights or windows—use natural side-lighting.
Wrong dimensions—measure precisely; many pharmacies print incorrectly.
Glasses OK if no glare hides eyes; hats/headwear only for religious/medical reasons with statement.
Minors: Full face visible, no one else in frame.

Get photos at CVS, Walgreens, or AAA in nearby Prince Frederick or Lusby (confirm passport service). Cost: $15-17. Check specs via State Department tool.[9]

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Drum Point

Drum Point lacks its own facility, so head to Calvert County spots. Book appointments online—slots fill fast due to seasonal demand.[10]

Calvert County Circuit Court Clerk (Prince Frederick, 15-20 min drive): 150 Main St, Prince Frederick, MD 20657. Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm (passports 9am-3pm). Walk-ins limited; call 410-535-1600 x2433 or check site.[11]
Prince Frederick Post Office: 7580 Benedict Ave, Prince Frederick, MD 20639. Mon-Fri 9am-2pm by appointment via USPS locator. 410-535-0233.[12]
Dunkirk Post Office (north, ~20 min): 10250 Southern Maryland Blvd, Dunkirk, MD 20754. Appointments required.[12]
Lusby Post Office (south, ~15 min): 12010 HG Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657. Mon-Fri mornings.[12]

Use USPS tool for real-time availability.[10] Clerk's office handles all types; post offices do not process renewals.

For mail renewals, use Prince Frederick PO.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application

Use this printable checklist to organize.

Determine eligibility (see above section). Download correct form(s).[6][3]
Gather citizenship proof + photocopy front/back.
Get photo—verify specs twice.[9]
Complete form—DS-11 unsigned; DS-82 fully filled.
Calculate fees—use fee calculator.[7] Bring check/money order.
Book appointment at facility via phone/site.[10][11]
Prepare minor docs if applicable (both parents, DS-3053).[8]
Make ID photocopies.
Review for errors—use State Dept checklist.[13]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Application Day

Arrive early with all items organized in envelope.
Present docs to agent— they'll review.
Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
Pay fees—two checks: one to "U.S. Dept of State," one to facility.
Get receipt—tracks status.
Agent seals envelope—do not reopen.
Track online after 5-7 days.[14]

Routine: 6-8 weeks; expedited 2-3 weeks (+$60).[2] Urgent (life/death/emergency within 14 days): In-person at regional agency (Philadelphia, ~3 hrs).[15] Not guaranteed; peak times worsen delays.

Renewing or Mailing from Drum Point

Eligible renewals: Mail to National Passport Processing Center. Use USPS Priority ($19+) for tracking—drop at any PO.[16] Include old passport (they'll return it).

Expedited and Urgent Travel

High demand confuses options:

Expedited: +$60, 2-3 weeks. Add at acceptance or online.[2]
Urgent (within 14 days): Proof required (flight itinerary, funeral notice). Visit agency; appointment via 1-877-487-2778. Not for "last-minute vacations."[15]

Maryland's business/tourist traffic spikes overwhelm systems—apply 3+ months early.

Special Notes for Minors and Students

Minors need dual parental involvement; exchange students often rush—plan ahead. Include school docs if needed for visas.[8]

Tracking and What Happens Next

Create account at State Dept site post-submission.[14] Passports non-mailable to P.O. boxes—use street address.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Drum Point

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations designated by the U.S. Department of State to review and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, staff verify your identity, ensure forms are complete, administer oaths, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types in areas like Drum Point include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Drum Point, several such facilities serve residents and visitors, often within a short drive to nearby towns.

When visiting, expect a structured process: arrive with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), two passport photos meeting State Department specs, valid photo ID, and payment for fees (check or money order preferred). Staff will review documents, take your signature under oath, and seal the application. Walk-ins are typical at many spots, but some require appointments via an online system. Processing times vary—standard service takes 6-8 weeks, expedited 2-3 weeks—so apply well in advance of travel. Be prepared for security checks similar to those at banks or government offices, and note that children under 16 must appear with both parents or guardians.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities near Drum Point tend to see higher crowds during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often feel the rush as people catch up after weekends, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can bottleneck with lunch-hour visitors. Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are generally quieter.

To plan effectively, research facilities in advance through the State Department's locator tool, confirm any appointment needs, and prepare all materials meticulously to avoid delays. Opt for off-peak days like Tuesdays through Thursdays, arrive early, and consider mailing renewals if eligible to skip lines altogether. Always double-check requirements on official sites, as policies can evolve. Patience and preparation make the process smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Drum Point?
No local same-day service. Nearest agencies in Philadelphia or DC require appointments and proof of imminent travel.[15]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited speeds routine apps (2-3 weeks); urgent is for travel/emergency within 14 days at agencies only.[2][15]

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake immediately meeting exact specs. Common issues: glare, head size, background.[9]

Do I need an appointment at Calvert Clerk's office?
Recommended—call ahead. Limited walk-ins.[11]

Can I renew my child's passport by mail?
No, minors always apply in person.[1]

What if my passport is lost abroad?
Contact U.S. embassy; apply for limited-validity passport.[17]

How do peak seasons affect Drum Point applications?
Limited slots at facilities; processing delays up to weeks extra—apply early.[2]

Is a birth certificate from Maryland vital records acceptable?
Yes, certified copy. Order from Md Vital Records if needed.[18]

Sources

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