Beaverton, OR Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals, Minors

Getting a Passport in Beaverton, OR

Beaverton, located in Washington County, Oregon, sees significant passport demand due to its proximity to Portland International Airport (PDX) and the region's active travel scene. 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 for students in exchange programs or urgent last-minute trips like family emergencies. However, high demand at local facilities often leads to limited appointment slots, especially during these seasons. Common hurdles include confusion over expedited options versus true urgent travel (within 14 days), photo rejections from poor lighting or sizing, missing documents for minors, and applying with the wrong form for renewals. This guide draws from official U.S. Department of State resources to help you navigate the process efficiently [1].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before starting, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Oregonians in Beaverton can apply in person at acceptance facilities for most cases or mail renewals if eligible.

First-Time Applicants

If you've never held a U.S. passport, use Form DS-11. This requires an in-person appearance at a passport acceptance facility. It's common for new travelers, families applying for minors under 16, or adults whose previous passport was issued before age 16 [1].

Decision Guidance:
You're likely a first-time applicant (DS-11) if you've never had a passport, it was lost/stolen with no record, or issued before age 16 (and you're now 16+). If your passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16+, and less than 15 years old, renew by mail with DS-82 instead—verify eligibility at travel.state.gov to save time and avoid in-person visits.

Practical Steps for Beaverton, OR:

• Download Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov and fill it out completely, but do not sign until instructed by an agent.
• Prepare originals + photocopies (front/back on plain white paper) of:
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate—request certified copies from Oregon Vital Records if you don't have one).
  • Valid photo ID (e.g., Oregon driver's license or military ID).
• Get one 2x2" color passport photo (taken within 6 months, white background; many facilities provide this onsite).
• Have fees ready: Check travel.state.gov for current amounts (cash, check, or card often accepted; expediting adds urgency).
• Book an appointment online if available, or walk in—call ahead for Beaverton-area wait times and hours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 early (it invalidates the form—agents must witness it).
• Forgetting originals (photocopies alone won't work; no digital scans).
• Using an expired ID or mismatched name on documents (e.g., pre-marriage birth cert without name-change proof).
• Skipping the photo or using a selfie/wallet-size (must meet strict specs or get rejected).
• Underestimating processing time (6-8 weeks standard; plan 2-3 months ahead for Oregon summer travel peaks).
  Aim for weekdays before noon to dodge crowds and Portland-area traffic delays.

Renewals

Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're at least 16, and it wasn't damaged or reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person visit needed. Many Beaverton business travelers renew this way to avoid appointment waits [1].

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

Report the issue immediately using Form DS-64 (online at travel.state.gov for fastest processing or by mail). This notifies the State Department, prevents identity theft, and is required before applying for a replacement.

Next steps for replacement:

• Lost or stolen: Apply in person only with Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility. DS-82 (mail renewal) is not eligible since you must submit your old passport, which you don't have.
• Damaged: Submit DS-11 in person if severely damaged (e.g., pages torn, unreadable info, or water exposure). Use DS-82 by mail only if you have the passport, it was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, undamaged by your actions, and otherwise eligible.

Key evidence: For theft, get a police report from local Beaverton or Washington County law enforcement (file online, by phone, or in person ASAP—reports are free and typically issued within 24-48 hours). Include it with your application; without it, processing may delay or require extra proof [1].

Practical clarity & tips for Beaverton, OR area:

• What to bring: Completed form, original proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate/certified copy), valid photo ID (driver's license), two 2x2 passport photos, fees ($130+ application, plus execution fee), and old passport/police report if available. Photocopies required for some docs.
• Common mistakes: Assuming mail-in works for lost passports (it doesn't); delaying police report (identity thieves act fast); poor photos (must be recent, plain white background—use CVS/Walgreens); forgetting two IDs if primary doesn't match citizenship name.
• Decision guidance: No urgent travel? Go routine (6-8 weeks). Leaving in 2-14 days? Add expedited fee ($60, 2-3 weeks). <2 weeks or life-or-death? Contact National Passport Information Center for urgent options. Use travel.state.gov's eligibility tool for DS-82. Search "passport acceptance facility" locator for nearby spots and book appointments weeks ahead—they fill fast.
• Track status online after submitting. Replacements arrive via mail; keep case number handy.

Name Changes or Corrections

After marriage, divorce, or errors, submit the current passport with supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate). First-time corrections use DS-11; eligible renewals use DS-82 [1].

Passports for Minors Under 16

Minors under 16 require a first-time passport application using Form DS-11, completed but not signed until in person at an acceptance facility. Both parents/guardians must appear together with the child, or the absent parent/guardian must provide a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent). Original documents are mandatory—no photocopies for proof of citizenship or parental relationship. Vital for exchange students, family trips abroad, or any international travel [1].

Practical Steps for Beaverton Residents:

1. Gather Documents First: Child's U.S. birth certificate (order from Oregon Vital Records if needed; allow 2-4 weeks processing), parents' IDs (driver's license or passport), and proof of parental relationship (child's birth certificate listing both parents).
2. Complete Forms: Fill out DS-11 online or by hand (black ink only); include DS-3053 if one parent is absent.
3. Photos: Get 2x2-inch U.S. passport photos taken locally (child's face must be centered, neutral expression, no glasses/headwear unless religious/medical).
4. Apply In Person: Book ahead at a passport acceptance facility; pay fees separately (check/money order for application fee, cash/card for execution fee).
5. Processing: Routine (6-8 weeks) or expedited (2-3 weeks, extra fee); track online after 7-10 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Attempting DS-82 renewal—under 16 always needs DS-11.
• Outdated or incomplete DS-3053 (must include child's full name, travel plans, and be notarized by a commissioned notary; no expiration but use recent version).
• Bringing certified copies instead of originals for birth certificate (must be original or certified with raised seal).
• Forgetting child's Social Security number (required on DS-11).
• Poor photos (smiling, shadows, or wrong size lead to rejection).

Decision Guidance:

• Both Parents Available? Apply together to avoid consent forms—fastest option.
• One Parent Absent? Use DS-3053 if amicable; for sole custody, bring court order/custody papers instead.
• Urgent Trip? Expedite at acceptance ($60 extra) and use 1-2 day return mail ($21+); Life-or-Death emergencies qualify for in-person at regional passport agency (proof required).
• Exchange/Family Travel: Apply 3+ months early; first-timers ineligible for renewals. If child has dual citizenship, clarify with State Department.

Urgent Travel

For trips within 14 days, schedule an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency (nearest is Seattle, a 3-hour drive or flight from PDX). Expedited service (2-3 weeks) is different and available at acceptance facilities [2].

Use the State Department's interactive tool to confirm your form [1].

Gather Required Documents and Proof of Citizenship

Start early—processing takes 6-8 weeks standard, longer in peak seasons like spring/summer. Incomplete applications delay everything.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (raised seal), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Oregon birth certificates come from the Oregon Health Authority's Center for Health Statistics or county vital records offices like Washington County [3][4]. Photocopies suffice for some, but originals are inspected.

• Proof of Identity: Driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. Oregon DMV IDs work [5].

• Social Security Number: Required on the form (full or marked "see page 2"). Get a replacement card from SSA if needed [6].

• One Passport Photo: 2x2 inches, color, white background, taken within 6 months. Local spots like Walgreens (e.g., 17400 SW Farmington Rd, Beaverton) or Costco offer this for $15-17 [1].

For minors: Both parents' IDs, birth certificate, and parental consent Form DS-3053 if one parent can't attend [1].

Photocopy all documents (front/back) on 8.5x11 paper. Fees: $130 adult book (first/renewal), $100 minor; $35 acceptance fee; optional $60 expedite, $21.36 execution (1-2 day delivery) [1].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections in busy areas like Beaverton. Specs: 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches, even lighting, no glare/shadows, neutral expression, glasses off unless medically necessary [7].

Challenges here include home setups with phone glare or uneven lighting from Oregon's variable weather. Use pharmacies:

• Walgreens or CVS in Beaverton (multiple locations).
• USPS offices often refer to nearby print shops.

Digital uploads aren't accepted at acceptance facilities—bring two physical prints [7].

Local Passport Acceptance Facilities in Beaverton and Washington County

All require appointments due to high demand—book via usps.com or call. No walk-ins.

• Beaverton Main Post Office: 4310 SW Murray Blvd, Beaverton, OR 97005. Mon-Fri 10am-3pm by appointment. Handles first-time, minors, renewals by mail drop-off [8].

• Cedar Mill Post Office: 13500 SW Walker Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005. Similar hours [8].

• Washington County Circuit Court Clerk: 155 N First Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124 (15-min drive). Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm, appointments recommended [9].

• Aloha Library: 17500 SW Springville Rd, Aloha, OR 97006 (near Beaverton). Limited passport services [10].

Search usps.com/locations for real-time availability—slots fill fast in summer and winter breaks [8]. For urgent needs within 14 days, drive to Seattle Passport Agency (appointment only via 1-877-487-2778) [2].

Step-by-Step Checklist for In-Person Applications (DS-11)

Use this for first-time, minors, or replacements. Complete Form DS-11 but do not sign until instructed.

1. Confirm Eligibility: Use State Department tool [1]. Gather citizenship proof, ID, photo, fees (check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State"; acceptance fee to facility).

2. Fill Forms: DS-11 online (print single-sided), DS-3053 for minors if needed. Double-check SS#.

3. Make Copies: One set of all docs.

4. Book Appointment: Call or online 4-6 weeks ahead. Arrive 15 min early.

5. Attend Appointment (1-2 hours):

   • Present docs.
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Pay fees (cash/check/credit varies by facility).
   • Receive receipt—passport mailed in 6-8 weeks.

6. Track Status: Online at travel.state.gov [11].

7. Receive Passport: Sign inside upon arrival. Report non-delivery.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Mail Renewals (DS-82)

For eligible renewals only—saves time amid Beaverton appointment shortages.

1. Verify Eligibility: Passport <15 years old, you >16, undamaged [1].

2. Complete DS-82: Online preferred, print single-sided. Include old passport, photo, fees ($130 check to "U.S. Department of State").

3. Assemble Package:

   • DS-82 (unsigned until mailing).
   • Old passport.
   • New photo.
   • Fees.
   • Prepaid return envelope ($21.36 trackable).
   • Name change docs if applicable.

4. Mail To: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (express for expedite) [1].

5. Track: 6-8 weeks standard [11].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard: 6-8 weeks (postmark to receipt). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Life-or-death emergencies within 72 hours at agencies [2].

No guarantees—peaks (spring/summer, winter) add 2-4 weeks. Track weekly; refile if >4 weeks late [11]. Avoid relying on last-minute during high-volume student exchanges or holiday rushes.

Special Considerations for Minors and Urgent Scenarios

Minors under 16: Both parents or Form DS-3053 notarized (Oregon notaries at banks/USPS). Photos tricky—ensure no toys/clothing distractions [1].

Urgent business trips: Expedite at acceptance facility, but <14 days requires agency visit. PDX flights to Asia/Europe common, so plan ahead [2].

Oregon Vital Records: Order birth certs online (oregon.gov) or Washington County Health (503-846-8744). Rush processing 1-2 days [3][4].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Beaverton

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to receive and process new or renewal passport applications from U.S. citizens. These locations do not issue passports on-site; instead, staff review your documents, administer an oath for first-time applicants, collect fees, and forward the sealed application package to a national passport agency for processing. Expect a straightforward but thorough verification process: bring a completed application form (such as DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals), two identical passport photos meeting State Department specifications, original proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment (typically a combination of checks or money orders for application and execution fees). Applications are usually handled in person, and minors under 16 must appear with both parents or guardians.

In and around Beaverton, located in Washington County near Portland, Oregon, these facilities are commonly found at post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and some municipal buildings. Nearby areas in Multnomah and Clackamas Counties also host similar sites. To locate options, use the official State Department website's search tool by entering your ZIP code; it lists authorized facilities with basic details. Regional passport agencies, like the one in Seattle, handle urgent needs but require appointments and are not acceptance sites. Always confirm requirements in advance, as policies can vary slightly by location.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months before vacations or around major holidays like spring break and Thanksgiving. Mondays are often the busiest due to weekend backlog, while mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently experience rushes from walk-ins. To plan effectively, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or mid-week days like Wednesday through Friday. Many sites offer appointments via their websites or by phone—book well ahead, especially seasonally. Arrive prepared with all documents to minimize wait times, and consider applying during quieter periods like fall or winter off-seasons for smoother service. Patience is key, as lines can form unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I renew my passport by mail if it expires in a month?
Yes, if eligible (issued <15 years ago, etc.). Mail now for 6-8 weeks processing [1].

What if my appointment is full—any alternatives?
Try nearby facilities like Hillsboro Clerk or Portland Post Offices. Renew by mail if possible. No walk-ins [8].

How do I handle a name change after marriage?
Include marriage certificate with renewal (DS-82) or new app (DS-11) [1].

My child’s passport is lost—what now?
Report via DS-64 online, then DS-11 in person with new photo/docs [1].

Are passport photos accepted from home printers?
No—must meet exact specs; professionals reduce rejections [7].

What’s the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited (2-3 weeks, +$60) at post offices; urgent (<14 days) only at agencies with proof of travel [2].

Can I track my application status?
Yes, enter receipt info at travel.state.gov [11].

Do I need my birth certificate if renewing?
No for standard renewals, but yes for first-time or corrections [1].

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Passport Agencies
[3]Oregon Vital Records
[4]Washington County Health
[5]Oregon DMV
[6]Social Security
[7]Passport Photo Requirements
[8]USPS Passport Locations
[9]Washington County Clerk
[10]Washington County Libraries
[11]Check Status