Getting a Passport in Big Spring, TX: Facilities, Forms, Fees

Getting a Passport in Big Spring, TX

Residents of Big Spring, Texas, in Howard County, often need passports for frequent international business trips—especially in the oil and energy sectors—or tourism to Mexico and other destinations. Seasonal spikes occur during spring and summer vacations, winter breaks, and student exchange programs from local institutions like Howard College. Urgent needs arise from last-minute family emergencies or work deployments. However, high demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, particularly during peak seasons like spring and summer. This guide provides a straightforward path to navigate the process, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you avoid common pitfalls like photo rejections or form mix-ups [1].

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Mischoosing can delay your application.

• First-Time Passport: Use Form DS-11 if you've never had a U.S. passport or if your previous one was issued before age 16. Required in person at an acceptance facility [1].
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're over 16, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit needed unless adding pages or it's a child passport [2]. Not available if expired over 15 years or issued in your childhood.
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Report it first with Form DS-64 (online or mail), then apply as first-time (DS-11 in person) or renewal (DS-82 by mail) if eligible. Damaged passports are never renewable [1].
• Name Change or Correction: Renew with DS-82 if eligible, providing legal proof like marriage certificate.
• Urgent Travel (Within 14 Days): In-person at a regional passport agency, not local facilities. Book life-or-death emergency service if within 3 days [3].
• Expedited Service: Available at acceptance facilities or mail for renewals (+$60 fee); cuts standard 6-8 weeks to 2-3 weeks, but not guaranteed for urgent trips [4].

Texas travelers often confuse expedited (faster processing) with urgent (agency-only for imminent travel). If your trip is over 14 days away, start early—avoid relying on last-minute options during Howard County's busy seasons.

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Big Spring and Howard County

Big Spring has limited facilities due to its size, so book appointments early via the U.S. Department of State's locator [5]. High demand means slots fill quickly, especially March-June and December.

• Big Spring Post Office: 1800 E 11th St, Big Spring, TX 79720. Phone: (432) 263-8301. Offers routine and expedited services; photos available on-site (~$15) [6]. Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-4 PM for passports (call to confirm).
• Howard College (Student Services): Limited passport services during academic terms; check for pop-ups tied to exchange programs [7]. Not primary—use post office first.

Nearby options (under 45 minutes):

• Westbrook Post Office: 201 N Wells St, Westbrook, TX 79565 (~30 miles).
• Midland Main Post Office: 300 S Big Spring St, Midland, TX 79701 (~40 miles), higher volume but more slots.

Search exact availability and book at iafdb.travel.state.gov [5]. No walk-ins; arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.

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

Follow this checklist precisely to prevent rejections. Texas applicants commonly face issues with birth certificates from Howard County Clerk or photos with glare from West Texas sun.

Preparation (1-2 Weeks Before)

• Confirm eligibility and trip dates. Standard processing: 6-8 weeks; expedited: 2-3 weeks (no guarantees in peak seasons) [4].
• Gather proof of U.S. citizenship: Original birth certificate (long-form from Howard County Clerk, vitalrecords.co.howard.tx.us or Texas DSHS [8][9]), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Photocopies required.
• Get passport photo: 2x2 inches, white/off-white background, no glasses/shadows/glare. Common rejections in Big Spring: Headwear shadows or incorrect size [10].
• Proof of ID: Driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. Name must match citizenship docs.
• For minors under 16: Both parents' presence/IDs/consent; or sole custody docs. Divorce decrees common issue—get court-certified copies [1].
• Download/print Form DS-11 (do not sign until instructed) from pptform.state.gov [11].

At Acceptance Facility

• Book and attend appointment.
• Present all originals + photocopies (8.5x11 black/white).
• Complete DS-11 in black ink; sign in front of agent.
• Pay fees: $130 application (check/money order to "U.S. Department of State") + $35 execution (cash/check to facility) + optional $60 expedite [12].
• For expedited: Provide itinerary copy; track via email [4].

After Submission

• Keep receipts. Track status at passportstatus.state.gov (7-10 days post-submission) [13].
• Birth certs: Order from Howard County Clerk (300 Main St, Big Spring, TX 79720; $22 + shipping) or Texas Vital Statistics ($22 online) [8][9].

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

Renewals are simpler for eligible Big Spring residents—ideal for business pros renewing off-peak.

• Verify eligibility: Passport <15 years old, you ≥16, undamaged [2].
• Gather: Old passport, photo, name change docs if needed.
• Complete DS-82 (sign and date) [14].
• Fees: $130 book ($30 card) by check to "U.S. Department of State"; optional $60 expedite, $19.53 1-2 Day delivery [12].
• Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (expedited box separate) [2].
• Track as above. Warning: Mail delays spike in winter—use traceable service.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections nationwide, higher in sunny Big Spring [10]. Specs:

• 2x2 inches (600x600 pixels digital).
• Head 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, facing camera.
• Uniform lighting: No shadows under eyes/chin, no glare on glasses (remove if possible).
• Plain white/very light background; recent (6 months).

Where: Big Spring Post Office ($15), Walmart (801 N Main St), Walgreens (1400 S Main St), or CVS. Print multiples; agents check on-site [6][10].

Fees Breakdown and Payment Tips

No credit cards at facilities—bring check/money order/cash. Fees non-refundable [12].

Special Considerations for Texas Families and Urgent Travel

Minors require both parents or Form DS-3053 notarized. Howard County divorces: Get abstracts from District Clerk (300 Main St) [15]. Students: Campus IDs accepted as secondary.

Urgent? Nearest agency: Dallas (2.5 hours, 1100 Commerce St) or El Paso (5 hours). Appointment only via 1-877-487-2778; prove travel <14 days [3]. Peak seasons overwhelm—plan 10+ weeks ahead.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Big Spring

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review and submit passport applications for processing. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, staff verify your identity, ensure forms are complete, administer the oath, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for printing and mailing, which typically takes several weeks.

In and around Big Spring, such facilities are commonly found at everyday public venues like post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and some municipal buildings. Nearby towns and cities may also host similar spots, offering options within a reasonable drive. To locate one, use the official State Department website's search tool or call the National Passport Information Center for guidance tailored to your area.

When visiting, come prepared with a completed DS-11 application form (for first-time applicants or renewals not eligible for mail-in), two passport photos meeting exact specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees (check or money order preferred). Expect a brief interview where you'll swear to the truthfulness of your application. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Processing options include routine (4-6 weeks) or expedited (2-3 weeks) service, with urgent travel needs directed to passport agencies.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays tend to be crowded as people start their week, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently peak due to lunch-hour rushes. Weekends, if available, can vary but may draw families.

Plan ahead by checking facility guidelines online or by phone for appointment requirements—many now mandate them to manage crowds. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays to avoid lines. Arrive with all documents organized to minimize delays, and consider off-peak months like fall or winter for smoother visits. Always confirm policies, as they can change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Big Spring?
No, local facilities don't offer same-day. Urgent requires agencies; standard is 6-8 weeks [4].

What if my birth certificate is from Howard County?
Request certified copy from Howard County Clerk ($22) or Texas DSHS online. Must show full info, raised seal [8][9].

My renewal passport is damaged—can I still mail it?
No, treat as new: DS-11 in person [1].

How do I add visa pages?
Renew with DS-82, request 52-page book (+$30? No, standard now larger) [2].

Photos rejected—why?
Shadows/glare common; retake with even light, no smile [10].

Tracking delayed during summer?
Yes, Texas volume high; check status weekly, inquire after 4 weeks routine/2 weeks expedited [13].

Minors traveling alone—extra steps?
DS-3053 + parental awareness letter recommended [1].

Can Howard College issue passports?
Limited; post office primary [7].

Final Tips for Big Spring Residents

Start early, double-check forms/docs. Peak travel (spring/summer student breaks, winter escapes) strains facilities—book 4-6 weeks ahead. This process, while bureaucratic, ensures secure travel for Texas' busy international routes.

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Renew Passport
[3]Urgent Travel
[4]Processing Times
[5]Acceptance Facility Search
[6]USPS Passports
[7]Howard College
[8]Howard County Clerk
[9]Texas Vital Statistics
[10]Passport Photo Requirements
[11]Passport Forms
[12]Passport Fees
[13]Check Status
[14]DS-82 Form
[15]Howard County District Clerk