Getting a Passport in Four Corners, MD: Steps & Facilities

Getting a Passport in Four Corners, MD

Four Corners, an unincorporated community in Montgomery County, Maryland, sits just north of Silver Spring and benefits from proximity to major airports like Dulles International (IAD) and Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). Maryland residents, including those in Four Corners, frequently travel internationally for business—especially in the DC metro area's government and tech sectors—and tourism. Seasonal spikes occur during spring and summer vacations, winter breaks, and student exchange programs through local universities like the University of Maryland. Urgent trips, such as last-minute family emergencies or business opportunities, are common but challenging due to high demand at passport acceptance facilities.[1]

Local challenges include limited appointments at busy post offices and county offices during peak seasons, confusion over expedited services (which add fees for 2-3 week delivery) versus life-or-death urgent travel (requiring in-person processing within 14 days), frequent photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions, incomplete forms for minors (like missing parental consent), and errors in renewal eligibility—such as using the first-time form DS-11 when DS-82 qualifies.[2] Always verify requirements on official sites, as processing times can stretch beyond estimates during high-volume periods like summer; do not plan last-minute applications then.[3]

This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, tailored to Four Corners residents.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right path avoids delays and extra trips. Use this section to identify your situation:

• First-time passport (adult or child under 16): Use Form DS-11. Must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Requires proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate), ID, photo, and parental consent for minors.[4]

• Renewal (adult passport only): Eligible if your passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16+, within 15 years, and in your current name. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit needed. Not available for child passports.[5]

• Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged passport: Report it via Form DS-64 (free report) or DS-11/DS-82 if reapplying. Provide police report if stolen. Expediting recommended.[6]

• Name change, correction, or second passport: Use DS-5504 or DS-82/DS-11 depending on issuance date. Multiple passports possible for frequent business travelers.[7]

Download forms from travel.state.gov—print single-sided, black ink.[1]

Gather Required Documents and Photos

Documentation errors cause most rejections. Start early.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

• Certified U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy from vital records office), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport.[4]
• For Four Corners residents: Order Maryland birth certificates from the Maryland Department of Health Vital Records office online, by mail, or in-person in Baltimore. Local walk-ins unavailable; processing takes 4-6 weeks normally.[8] Rush service available for extra fee.

Proof of Identity

• Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Must match application name.[4]
• Maryland MVA offices in nearby Gaithersburg or Rockville issue IDs; bring two proofs of address (e.g., utility bill).[9]

Passport Photos

Photos account for 30% of rejections locally due to home printers causing glare/shadows or incorrect 2x2-inch size on white background.[10]

• Specs: Recent (6 months), 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses/uniforms/selfies, even lighting.[10]
• Where: CVS, Walgreens, or USPS in Silver Spring (e.g., 1110 University Blvd W). Cost $15-17. Avoid Walmart—frequent dimension issues reported.[11]
• Tip: Use facilities with digital previews; check against state.gov sample.[10]

For Minors Under 16

Both parents/guardians must appear with child, or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Proof of parental relationship required.[4]

Fees

Pay by check/money order (two separate payments: application to State Dept, execution to facility).[12]

• Adult first-time/renewal book: $130 + $35 fee.
• Child: $100 + $35.
• Expedite: +$60; 1-2 day urgent: +$22+ overnight shipping.[13]

Find a Passport Acceptance Facility Near Four Corners

Montgomery County has 20+ facilities, but Four Corners lacks a dedicated one—nearest are high-volume post offices/clerk offices. Book via usps.com or facility phone; slots fill fast in spring/summer.[14]

Recommended nearby (ZIP 20906):

• Leisure World Plaza Post Office (14676 Rothgeb Dr, Rockville, MD 20850): 5 miles, Mon-Fri 10am-2pm by appt.[15]
• Silver Spring Main Post Office (1110 University Blvd W, Silver Spring, MD 20901): 4 miles, weekdays.[14]
• Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk (50 Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850): 10 miles, handles first-time/minors.[16]

Search iafdb.travel.state.gov by ZIP for real-time availability.[17] Arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.

Step-by-Step Checklist: First-Time Adult Passport

Use this printable checklist for DS-11 applications.

1. Complete Form DS-11 (unsigned until facility). Download from travel.state.gov.[1]
2. Gather citizenship proof: Certified birth certificate (not hospital printout).[4]
3. Prepare ID: Driver's license + photocopy both sides.[4]
4. Get photos: 2x2 inches from approved vendor.[10]
5. Calculate fees: Two checks ($130/$165 to "U.S. Department of State"; $35 to "U.S. Department of State" or facility).[12]
6. Book appointment: Call USPS/facility 4-6 weeks ahead.[14]
7. Attend in person: Sign DS-11 there. Submit all.
8. Track status: Create account at passportstatus.state.gov after 7-10 days.[18]
9. Plan for mail delivery: Standard 6-8 weeks; expedite for 2-3.[3]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Passport Renewal by Mail (DS-82)

For eligible adults only.

1. Verify eligibility: Passport <15 years old, issued at 16+, undamaged, current name.[5]
2. Complete DS-82: By hand/computer, sign only if mailing.[5]
3. Include old passport: Place inside envelope.[5]
4. Photos: One 2x2 affixed to form.[10]
5. Fees: Check $130 to "U.S. Department of State"; include prepaid return envelope if expediting.[12]
6. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[5]
7. Track: Online after 7-10 days.[18]

For lost passports, file DS-64 first online.[6]

Processing Times and Expediting Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (do not mail overnight).[3] Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60).[13] Peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) add 2-4 weeks—apply 3+ months early for seasonal travel.[3]

Urgent (travel <14 days, life/death/emergency): Call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment at regional agency (e.g., Washington Passport Agency, 90 miles away).[19] Bring itinerary/proof; no guarantees during peaks.[19]

Business travelers: Request second passport if frequent trips.[7]

Tips for Success in High-Demand Seasons

• Apply off-peak (fall).
• Use mail renewal if possible.
• Double-check photos/docs with state.gov validators.[1]
• For students/exchanges: Universities like UMD offer group sessions—check with advisors.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Four Corners

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for U.S. citizens. These include post offices, county clerks' offices, public libraries, and municipal buildings equipped to handle new applications, renewals, and replacements. They do not process passports on-site; instead, they verify your identity, review your forms, collect fees, and forward everything to a regional passport agency for processing, which typically takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited.

In and around Four Corners, you'll find such facilities spread across nearby towns and counties, offering convenient access for residents and visitors alike. These spots are especially useful for those in rural or remote areas, providing essential services without long drives to major cities. To locate one, use the State Department's online search tool by entering your ZIP code or city—this ensures you get the most current list, as authorizations can change.

When visiting, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form for first-time applicants (or DS-82 for renewals), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting exact specifications (2x2 inches, white background), and payment (checks or money orders preferred; credit cards may not be accepted everywhere). Expect a short interview where the agent administers an oath, seals your application in an envelope, and issues a receipt. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians, adding extra documentation like birth certificates.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities near Four Corners often see higher crowds during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays tend to be the busiest weekdays due to weekend backlog, while mid-day hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) draw more walk-ins. To minimize waits, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less hectic weekdays like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Check for appointment options online, as some facilities now offer them to streamline visits. Always verify requirements in advance and arrive with all documents organized—unexpected issues can lead to rescheduling. Planning a month or more ahead of travel is wise, especially in high season, to avoid expediting fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I apply for a passport in Four Corners during summer?
Apply 3-6 months ahead. High tourism/business travel overwhelms facilities; routine processing hits 10+ weeks.[3]

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?
No—must be certified original from vital records. Maryland issues via health.maryland.gov.[4][8]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60, 2-3 weeks, mail-in option) vs. urgent (in-person at agency within 14 days, proof required). Not for routine trips.[13][19]

My child needs a passport—do both parents have to come?
Yes, unless one provides notarized DS-3053 consent. Common rejection cause locally.[4]

I lost my passport abroad—now what in MD?
Report via DS-64/DS-5504; apply replacement with police report. Contact embassy if overseas.[6]

Where do I get passport photos that won't be rejected?
USPS/CVS/Walgreens near Four Corners. Specs: plain white background, no shadows.[10][11]

Can I track my application status?
Yes, passportstatus.state.gov after 7 days. Provide last name, DOB, application locator.[18]

Is there a passport office in Four Corners?
No—use nearby USPS in Silver Spring/Rockville. Search iafdb.travel.state.gov.[17]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Common Problems
[3]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[4]U.S. Department of State - Apply In Person
[5]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail
[6]U.S. Department of State - Lost/Stolen
[7]U.S. Department of State - Changes/Corrections
[8]Maryland Department of Health - Vital Records
[9]Maryland MVA - Identification Cards
[10]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photos
[11]USPS - Passport Photos
[12]U.S. Department of State - Fees
[13]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service
[14]USPS - Passport Services
[15]USPS Location Finder
[16]Montgomery County Circuit Court - Passports
[17]State Department - Acceptance Facility Search
[18]Passport Status Check
[19]U.S. Department of State - Urgent Travel