Getting a Passport in Memphis, TN: Your Step-by-Step Guide

By GovComplete Team • Published on: January 8, 2026

Location: Memphis, TN

Getting a Passport in Memphis, TN: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Memphis, in Shelby County, Tennessee, sees steady demand for passports due to frequent international business travel—especially with the FedEx hub facilitating quick global connections—alongside tourism peaks in spring and summer for European and Caribbean destinations, winter breaks to warmer climates, and university programs at the University of Memphis involving student exchanges. Families often face urgent scenarios, like last-minute trips for family emergencies or sudden work assignments. However, high demand at local acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, particularly during peak seasons (March–August and December–January). Common hurdles include photo rejections from poor lighting or sizing, incomplete paperwork for minors, and confusion over renewal forms or expedited options versus true urgent travel (within 14 days). This guide draws from official U.S. Department of State resources to help you navigate the process efficiently, with realistic timelines—no guarantees on processing during busy periods [1][2].

First, Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Misusing a form, like submitting a first-time application for a renewal, will delay you.

First-Time Passport: Required if you've never had a U.S. passport. Use Form DS-11. You must apply in person at an acceptance facility—no mail option [3].
Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued when you were 16+, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you're living in the U.S. Use Form DS-82 and mail it (or apply in person if preferred). Not eligible if it was a limited-validity passport for a child [4].
Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: Report it lost/stolen via Form DS-64 (online or paper). If replacing within the validity period and it was issued in the last 15 years, use DS-82 by mail. Otherwise, treat as first-time with DS-11 in person [5].
Name Change, Correction, or Multiple Passports: Use Form DS-5504 by mail if within one year of issuance; otherwise, DS-82 or DS-11 as applicable [6].

For Memphis residents, check eligibility using the State Department's online wizard [1]. If unsure, visit a local post office passport acceptance facility—they offer free consultations but book appointments early via usps.com [7].

Passport Acceptance Facilities in the Memphis Area

Shelby County has over 20 facilities, including USPS locations, county clerks, and libraries, but slots fill quickly due to local travel volume. Use the official locator for real-time availability: iafdb.travel.state.gov [8].

Key options:

Memphis Main Post Office (255 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103): Handles high volume; weekdays 9 AM–3 PM by appointment [7].
Shelby County Clerk's Office (160 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103): Central downtown spot; check shelbycountytn.gov for hours [9].
Germantown Post Office (7680 S Germantown Pkwy, Germantown, TN 38138): Suburban alternative with fewer crowds [7].
Bartlett Public Library (7400 US-70, Bartlett, TN 38133): Convenient for North Shelby County [8].

Book online via the facility's site or USPS—aim for off-peak (weekdays, mornings). Walk-ins are rare and not recommended during busy seasons. Private expediting services exist but add fees and aren't affiliated with the government [10].

Key Requirements: Documents, Photos, and Fees

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Primary: Original or certified U.S. birth certificate (issued by Shelby County Health Department or TN Vital Records) plus photocopy. Order from tn.gov/health if needed—allow 2–4 weeks processing [11]. Alternatives: naturalization certificate, Certificate of Citizenship [1].

Proof of Identity

Valid driver's license (TN Enhanced DL works), government ID, or military ID. Photocopy both sides [3].

Passport Photos

2x2 inches, color, white/cream background, taken within 6 months. No selfies—use CVS, Walgreens, or USPS ($15–17). Common Memphis rejections: shadows from overhead lights, glare from glasses, headwear unless religious/medical (doctor's note), or incorrect size (use template) [12]. State Department rejects ~20% of photos; get extras.

Fees (as of 2023; verify current)

Book (10-year adult): $130 execution + $130 application [13].
Card (travel to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean): Lower fees.
Expedited: +$60 [13]. Pay execution fee by check/money order to "Shelby County Clerk" (varies); application fee by check to "U.S. Department of State."

For minors under 16: Both parents' presence or notarized consent (Form DS-3053); child's birth certificate [14].

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or Replacement Applications (DS-11)

Use this checklist to prepare before your appointment. Download forms from travel.state.gov [3].

Complete Form DS-11 (but do NOT sign until instructed at facility) [15].
Gather citizenship proof: Original birth certificate + front/back photocopy on standard paper.
Gather ID proof: Driver's license + photocopy.
Get 2 passport photos: Check specs via photo tool [12].
Calculate fees: Two separate payments ready (check/money order; cash sometimes accepted).
Book appointment: Via USPS or facility site; arrive 15 min early.
At facility: Present docs, sign DS-11, pay fees. Receive receipt with tracking number.
Track status: Online at passportstatus.state.gov (7–10 days for update) [16].
Pickup/Mail: Most mail book in 6–8 weeks routine; track via receipt.

Pro Tip: Photocopier at facilities is pricey—do it yourself. For urgent: Request expedited ($60 extra, 2–3 weeks) or life-or-death (within 72 hours, call 1-877-487-2778) [17].

Renewals by Mail (DS-82): Simpler for Eligible Applicants

If eligible:

Fill DS-82 online or print [4].
Include old passport, photo, fees (one check to "U.S. Department of State").
Mail to address on form [18]. Processing: 6–8 weeks routine. Memphis post offices mail it same/next day.

Not eligible? Use DS-11 in person.

Handling Expedited Service and Urgent Travel

Routine: 6–8 weeks (no hard promise—up to 13 weeks peak seasons) [19]. Expedited: +$60, 2–3 weeks. For travel within 14 days: Limited "urgent" slots at facilities; prove with itinerary. Life-or-death emergencies (e.g., family death abroad): In-person at regional agency (Atlanta for TN, ~4-hour drive) [17]. Avoid relying on last-minute during Memphis peaks—plan 3+ months ahead [1].

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Under 16: DS-11 in person; both parents/guardians or DS-3053 consent. Full custody docs if applicable. High rejection rate in Memphis for missing parental ID—bring everything [14]. University of Memphis students: Campus ID not sufficient; use state ID.

Common Challenges and Memphis-Specific Tips

Appointment Shortages: Book 4–6 weeks early; try nearby Collierville or Southaven, MS facilities [8].
Photo Rejections: Local Walgreens trains staff—request "passport specs."
Birth Certificates: Shelby County issues (~$15); rush via vitalrecords.shelbycountytn.gov [20].
Peak Season Delays: Spring break (March) and summer see 50%+ more apps—State warns of nationwide backlogs [19].
Scams: Ignore unsolicited emails/calls promising fast passports.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Memphis

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and seal passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These locations do not process passports on-site; instead, they verify your documents, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing, which can take several weeks. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, and municipal buildings. In the Memphis area, such facilities are scattered throughout the city and its suburbs, as well as in nearby counties and towns, providing convenient options for residents and visitors alike.

When visiting a passport acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting State Department specifications, and payment for application and execution fees—typically a check or money order for the government fee and cash, check, or card for the facility's fee. Expect a short wait for staff to review your paperwork, administer an oath, and notarize your application. Minors under 16 must appear in person with both parents or guardians, or provide notarized consent forms. Facilities handle high volumes, so double-check requirements on the State Department's website beforehand to avoid delays.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities in the Memphis region tend to see heavier traffic during peak travel seasons like summer vacation months, spring break, and holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, when demand surges. Weekdays, especially Mondays, often bring crowds catching up after weekends, while mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are typically busiest due to lunch-hour visits. To minimize waits, aim for early mornings shortly after opening or late afternoons near closing. Many facilities offer appointments—book online or by phone if available, and arrive 15 minutes early. Always confirm policies in advance, as walk-in availability varies. Planning a month or more ahead of travel ensures smoother processing amid seasonal fluctuations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Memphis?
No routine same-day service. Urgent life-or-death requires Atlanta Passport Agency (appointment only) [17].

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited speeds routine processing (2–3 weeks). Urgent (within 14 days) needs proof at acceptance facility or agency [1].

My passport expired 16 years ago—can I renew?
No, use DS-11 as first-time if over 15 years [4].

Do I need an appointment at USPS in Memphis?
Yes, book via usps.com; limited walk-ins [7].

How do I replace a lost passport abroad?
Contact U.S. Embassy; new one issued limited validity [21].

Are passport cards accepted for cruises from Memphis-area ports?
Yes, for closed-loop cruises to Caribbean/Bermuda [22].

What if my child’s other parent won’t consent?
Sole custody court order or DS-3053 with ID/notary [14].

Can I track my application?
Yes, 7–10 days after submission at passportstatus.state.gov [16].

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