Carrollton TX Passport Application: DS-11, DS-82, Local Facilities

Getting a Passport in Carrollton, TX

Carrollton, in Dallas County, Texas, sees surging passport demand due to its DFW International Airport proximity—ideal for business travelers, families heading to beaches or Europe, and students on exchange programs. Peak seasons like spring break, summer vacations, and winter holidays strain local facilities, with appointment waits stretching 4-6 weeks. This guide streamlines your path using U.S. Department of State resources, emphasizing DS-11 vs. DS-82 decisions, timelines, common pitfalls, and Carrollton-specific tips for faster results [1].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Mischoosing forms delays processing by weeks. Use the State Department's tool: https://pptform.state.gov/ [1].

Quick Decision Table: DS-11 (In-Person) vs. DS-82 (Mail Renewal)

First-Time or Ineligible Renewals (DS-11)

Eligibility: Never had a passport, child under 16, prior passport >15 years old/under 16 when issued, damaged, or name changed.

Steps:

1. Complete DS-11 online/print (don't sign yet): travel.state.gov.
2. Gather originals: Birth certificate/naturalization cert, photo ID (Texas DL), 2x2 photo, fees.
3. Book facility appointment 4-6 weeks early.

What to Expect: 20-45 min visit; agent verifies docs, oaths you, seals app. Receive tracking receipt.

Pitfalls: Signing early (invalid), photocopy-only birth cert, poor photos (25% rejection rate [9]).

Timeline: Routine 6-8 weeks; expedite +$60 for 2-3 weeks.

Renewals (DS-82)

Eligibility Check: Issued 16+, <15 years ago, undamaged, your signature/name matches.

Steps:

1. Complete/sign DS-82.
2. Include old passport, new photo, $130 check (adult book).
3. Mail certified to PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 [3].

Pitfalls: Damaged passport, wrong photo specs, cash payment.

Carrollton Tip: Mail avoids DFW traffic; apply 9 months pre-expiration amid Texas travel peaks.

Replacements (Lost/Stolen/Damaged)

1. Immediately file Form DS-64 online at travel.state.gov (free, takes 5-10 minutes)—notifies State Department of loss/theft/damage and provides a confirmation number to include with your replacement application [4]. Print/save it right away.

2. If stolen: Report it promptly to your local Carrollton, TX police department for an official police report (bring passport details; most stations handle this quickly). This is required for theft claims and speeds up processing.

3. Apply for replacement:

   • DS-82 by mail if eligible (e.g., your passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16+, valid within 15 years if adult, US resident, and not expedited). Check full eligibility at travel.state.gov/passport.
   • DS-11 in person otherwise (new passport; find nearby passport acceptance facility via state.gov locator). Bring photos, ID, fees, DS-64 confirmation, and police report if stolen.

Common Pitfalls & Decision Guidance:

• Skipping DS-64 blocks your replacement app (file it first, always).
• No police report for theft? Expect 4-6 week delays or denial.
• Wrong form? DS-82 rejected if ineligible (e.g., damaged passport or recent issue)—double-check eligibility table on state.gov to avoid wasting time/money.
• Pro tip: Gather ID/photos upfront; Texas drivers' licenses work as primary ID for most applicants. Track status online post-submission.

Name Changes/Corrections

Mail DS-5504 (<1 year old passport) with proof (marriage cert). Otherwise, DS-11/DS-82 + docs [5].

Gather Required Documents and Fees

Core Docs:

• Citizenship: Original/certified birth cert (Texas DSHS: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/ [8]), prior passport.
• ID: Texas DL [6].
• SSN: Number or signed no-SSN statement.
• Minors: DS-3053 notarized if one parent absent [7].
• Photos: 2x2" (specs below).
• Photocopies: All docs front/back on 8.5x11.

2024 Fees (verify: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html):

• Adult book first-time: $130 (State Dept) + $35 execution (facility).
• Renewal: $130 total.
• Expedite: +$60. Cards/cheques to "U.S. Department of State"; execution cash/check to facility.

Fee Tool: https://pptform.state.gov/ (interactive chooser).

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Strict specs cause 25% rejections [9]:

• 2x2", head 1-1⅜", white background, neutral face, no glasses/hats/uniforms/selfies.
• Validate: https://tsg.phototool.state.gov/photo [9].

Carrollton spots: CVS/Walgreens/UPS ($15-17). Book ahead for summer rushes; Texas lighting causes glare—go indoor.

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Carrollton

Consolidate visits: Use https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ locator [1]. DFW demand means appointments essential; call/click to book, confirm hours/photos. Expect 20-45 min: Doc review, oath, fee split.

Key Local Options Table (verify latest via links):

Navigation Aid: Google Maps: Passport Facilities Near Carrollton (pins post offices/libraries; zoom for hours).

Pro Tips: Tuesdays-Thursdays quieter; arrive 15 min early with folder. Facilities forward apps—no on-site printing.

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

1. Verify/choose form: pptform.state.gov [1].
2. Gather docs/photos/fees; photocopy.
3. Book appt (call site).
4. Arrive: Agent reviews/signs/seals.
5. Get receipt; track: https://passportstatus.state.gov/ [14].

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

1. Confirm eligibility [3].
2. Complete/sign DS-82 + old passport/photo/$130 check.
3. Mail tracked to Philadelphia PO Box [3].
4. Track online [14].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

• Routine: 6-8 weeks (2024 State Dept) [1].
• Expedited: +$60, 2-3 weeks.
• Urgent (<14 days life/death): Agency appt + proof [13].

DFW peaks add mail delays; airlines need 6+ months validity. Track 7-10 days post-submission.

Special Considerations for Minors and Students

• Under 16: Both parents or DS-3053 [7]. Carrollton ISD fairs: Check district site.
• Students: Add I-20 for exchanges. Expedite for trips.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Appt Shortages: Renew by mail; book early.
• Doc Rejects: Originals only; pro photos.
• Delays: Avoid peaks; expedite wisely (no same-day routine).
• Name Changes: Proof upfront.
• Texas Sun/Heat: Indoor photos; early AM visits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Same-day in Carrollton? No; Dallas Agency for <14-day urgents [13].

Expedited vs. Urgent? Expedited shortens routine; urgent needs proof/agency [1].

USPS Appt? Yes; use locator [10].

Name Change Renewal? DS-82 + decree [5].

Child School Trip? Expedite + parents [7].

Track App? passportstatus.state.gov [14].

Texas Birth Cert OK? Yes, certified [8].

Sources

[1] Passports - Travel.State.Gov
[2] Apply In Person - Travel.State.Gov
[3] Renew Adult Passport - Travel.State.Gov
[4] Lost/Stolen - Travel.State.Gov
[5] Change/Correct - Travel.State.Gov
[6] Texas DPS
[7] Under 16 - Travel.State.Gov
[8] Texas Vital Statistics
[9] Photo Requirements - Travel.State.Gov
[10] USPS Passport Locations
[11] Dallas County Clerk
[12] City of Carrollton Libraries
[13] Passport Agencies
[14] Check Status - Travel.State.Gov