How to Get a Passport in Combine, TX: Renewals, First-Time & More

Guide to Getting a Passport in Combine, TX

Residents of Combine, Texas—a small community in Kaufman County just east of Dallas—frequently require passports due to the region's robust travel patterns. Proximity to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) supports heavy international business travel to Europe, Latin America, and Asia, alongside popular tourism to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Canada. Seasonal spikes occur during spring break, summer vacations, and winter holidays, when families and students head abroad. Exchange programs at nearby universities like the University of Texas at Dallas draw international students needing U.S. passports, while urgent scenarios like last-minute family emergencies or job relocations add pressure. However, high demand strains local resources, leading to limited appointments at acceptance facilities and confusion over processing options.[1]

This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step path tailored for Combine locals, addressing common pitfalls like photo rejections from poor lighting or dimensions, incomplete paperwork (especially for minors), and mix-ups between expedited service and true urgent travel (within 14 days for life-or-death cases). Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can change. Processing times are estimates only—routine service takes 6-8 weeks, expedited 2-3 weeks, and peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) often extend delays significantly. Do not count on last-minute issuance.[2]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right path prevents wasted trips to facilities. Here's how to decide:

First-Time Applicants

If you've never had a U.S. passport, apply in person using Form DS-11. This includes most adults over 16 applying anew and all children under 16. You'll need proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate), ID, a photo, and fees. No mail option.[1]

Renewals

You can renew by mail using Form DS-82 if your current passport meets all these criteria:

• Issued when you were age 16 or older
• Undamaged (no tears, water damage, alterations, or missing pages—inspect closely under good light)
• Issued within the last 15 years (check the issue date page)
• Same name as on your current passport (or include legal name change docs like marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)

Decision guide for Combine, TX residents:

1. Grab your old passport—Texas folks commonly skip this and assume ineligibility.
2. Verify all 4 criteria above? Download/print DS-82 from travel.state.gov, include your passport, photo, fee (check, money order), and mail it. No in-person trip needed—ideal for rural areas like Combine.
3. Miss even one? Apply in person with new Form DS-11 (requires witnesses/ID).

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Submitting a slightly worn passport (it'll be rejected—replace if unsure).
• Forgetting name change docs (causes delays).
• Using wrong form/fees (double-check state.gov for updates). Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard; expedite if traveling soon. [3]

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

Report the Loss or Theft First
Immediately report a lost, stolen, or damaged U.S. passport to the U.S. Department of State using Form DS-64 online (at travel.state.gov) or by mail—this limits your liability for misuse. Common mistake: Delaying the report, which can complicate identity protection and replacement. Do this before applying for a replacement.

Determine Your Application Form

• DS-82 (Renewal by Mail): Eligible only if your passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, is undamaged (except minor wear), and your name hasn't changed significantly. Mail it from anywhere. Decision guidance: Quickest and cheapest if you qualify—check eligibility quiz on travel.state.gov.
• DS-11 (New Passport in Person): Required for lost/stolen passports, damaged ones, or if ineligible for DS-82. Must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (common in Texas at post offices, county clerks, or libraries). Common mistake: Attempting mail renewal for ineligible cases, leading to rejection and delays.

Key Requirements and Tips

• Stolen Passports: Obtain a police report from your local Combine, TX law enforcement (file ASAP). It's mandatory and strengthens your application. Tip: Include theft details; generic reports get flagged.
• Photos and Fees: Bring two identical 2x2" U.S. passport photos (many pharmacies or UPS stores offer them—avoid selfies or copies). Fees start at $130+; pay by check/money order at acceptance facilities.
• Supporting Documents: Original proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, and photocopies. Common mistake: Forgetting certified copies or valid ID, causing return trips.

Processing and Expedite Options
Routine processing: 6-8 weeks (track online). Expedite for 2-3 weeks (+$60 fee) if travel is within 14 days; urgent services (same/next day) for life-or-death emergencies only (call 1-877-487-2778). Decision guidance: Expedite only if you have confirmed travel—standard is reliable for non-urgent needs in Combine's proximity to major hubs. Apply early to avoid rush fees/delays.[1]

Passports for Minors Under 16

Always in-person with DS-11. Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent. Common issue: missing vital records for Texas births.[4]

Other Scenarios

• Name change? Legal proof required.
• Expired less than 5 years? Still renewable by mail if eligible.
• Urgent travel? Expedited or in-person at agencies (not local facilities).[2]

Use the State Department's wizard to confirm: Passport Application Wizard.[1]

Gather Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Preparation avoids rejections. Texas births require certified copies from the Department of State Health Services—photocopies won't do.[4]

Checklist for Adults (First-Time or Replacement via DS-11)

1. Form DS-11: Complete but don't sign until instructed at facility.[1]
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original + photocopy (e.g., Texas birth certificate, naturalization cert). Order from Texas Vital Statistics if needed (allow 2-4 weeks).[4]
3. Proof of ID: Valid driver's license, military ID + photocopy. Texas DL works; enhance with Social Security card if name differs.
4. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo (details below).
5. Fees: See table below.
6. Optional: Name change docs (marriage cert, court order).

Checklist for Renewals (DS-82 by Mail)

Eligibility first: Confirm you qualify for mail renewal (passport issued when 16+, issued within last 15 years, undamaged/reportable lost/stolen, and you're a U.S. resident living abroad only if eligible). In Texas, most routine renewals process in 6-8 weeks standard (add 2-3 weeks for expedited). If urgent, damaged, or ineligible, use in-person renewal instead—common mistake is assuming mail works for all cases.

1. Form DS-82: Download from travel.state.gov or get from USPS. Fill out completely and accurately in black ink (no corrections fluid); sign only after printing if online. Common mistakes: Leaving sections blank (e.g., travel plans, emergency contact), using pencil, or submitting unsigned. Decision tip: Use online fillable form to auto-populate and reduce errors.

2. Current Passport: Include your most recent U.S. passport book/card (do not send if replacing a lost one—file DS-64 first). Must be: Undamaged, all pages intact. Common mistake: Sending expired >15 years old or mutilated passports, causing rejection/delays. Tip: Photocopy it front/back before mailing for your records.

3. Photo: One color photo, 2x2 inches (51x51mm), taken within 6 months, white/cream/off-white background, head size 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses/uniforms/selfies. Common mistakes: Wrong size (use photo booth/template), smiling/hat/eyeglasses, or digital prints (must be printed on photo paper). Decision guidance: Get at CVS/Walgreens/AAA; verify with State Dept template online to avoid return.

4. Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" (personal checks OK from U.S. banks). Current fees: $130 adult book renewal + $30 execution (waived for mail) + optional $60 expedite/$19.53 1-2 day delivery. Common mistakes: Cash/credit cards (not accepted), wrong amounts, or single check for multiple fees (use two separate). Tip: Include $18.15 optional delivery fee for tracking; calculate exact total via State Dept fee calculator.

5. Name change proof if applicable (e.g., maiden/married name): Original or certified copy of marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Common mistake: Submitting photocopies (must be originals/certified) or expired docs. Decision tip: Not needed for signatures only; skip if name matches exactly.

Final mailing tips: Use USPS Priority/Express with tracking (your expense); include self-addressed paid return envelope only if requested. Track status online at travel.state.gov after 1 week. For Combine-area applicants, mail early to account for local postmark delays. Retain copies of everything!

Checklist for Minors Under 16

1. DS-11 for child.
2. Both Parents' Presence or DS-3053 Consent Form (notarized).
3. Child's Citizenship Proof.
4. Parents' IDs.
5. Photo (child only).
6. Fees (higher for minors).

Print forms from travel.state.gov.[1] Photocopy everything once—front/back on standard paper.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections locally due to Texas sunlight causing glare/shadows or home printers yielding wrong sizes.[5] Specs:

• 2x2 inches square.
• Color, plain white/cream background.
• Head 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses (unless medical), no hats/selfies.
• Taken within 6 months.

Challenges in Combine: Outdoor glare or indoor shadows. Use CVS/Walgreens ($15, guaranteed compliant) or AAA (if member). Check samples: Photo Requirements.[5] Digital uploads for renewals must match exactly.

Fees and Payment

Pay application fees (to U.S. Department) separately from execution fees (to facility). No personal checks at most post offices.[6]

Cards accepted at USPS; cash/check elsewhere. Cards incur $1.10 fee.[6] Use Fee Calculator.

Where to Apply Near Combine, TX

Combine lacks a facility—nearest in Kaufman County and adjacent areas. Book appointments online; slots fill fast during peaks.[7]

• Terrell Main Post Office (closest, ~10 miles): 110 N Catherine St, Terrell, TX 75160. USPS services.[8]
• Kaufman Post Office: 101 S Washington St, Kaufman, TX 75142.
• Forney Post Office: 101 S Bois D Arcade St, Forney, TX 75126 (~15 miles).
• Kaufman County Clerk: 1450 E Fair St, Kaufman, TX 75142 (call for passport hours: 972-932-4331).

Find more/exact hours: Passport Acceptance Facility Locator. Search "Combine, TX 75125". Arrive early; bring all docs.[7] For urgent: Dallas Passport Agency (by appt only, 2+ hrs away).[2]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Combine

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities do not issue passports themselves; instead, they verify your identity, citizenship, and application details, administer the oath, collect fees, and forward everything to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and some municipal buildings.

In and around Combine, you'll find such facilities in local post offices, community libraries, and government administrative centers within a reasonable driving distance. Nearby towns and cities also host multiple options, making it convenient for residents to access services without long travels. Always verify current participation through official channels, as designations can change.

When visiting, prepare thoroughly: bring a completed application form, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, passport photos meeting specifications, and fees in the correct form (check or money order for the government portion). Expect a review process that may take 15-30 minutes per applicant, plus potential wait times. Some locations offer photo services on-site for an additional fee, while others require you to bring your own. Children under 16 must appear with both parents or legal guardians, and additional documentation applies.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, at the start of the week (especially Mondays), and mid-day periods when working professionals visit. Crowds can build unpredictably due to backlogs or events.

To plan effectively, research options in advance and prioritize those offering appointments, which reduce wait times significantly. Arrive early in the day or later afternoon on weekdays to avoid peaks. Mid-week visits (Tuesday-Thursday) are often quieter. Pack patience, all documents, and backups—delays happen. If urgency arises (e.g., travel within 14 days), contact a passport agency directly after submitting. Staying flexible and informed ensures a smoother experience.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Confirm Eligibility/Form: Use wizard.[1]
2. Gather Docs/Photo: Follow checklists above.
3. Book Appointment: Via facility site (USPS: usps.com).[8]
4. Arrive Prepared: Unsigned form, originals + copies.
5. At Facility:
   • Present everything.
   • Sign DS-11 in presence of agent.
   • Pay fees (separate payments).
6. Mail if Renewal: To address on DS-82; track via USPS.[3]
7. Track Status: Create account at State Department Tracker.[2]
8. Receive Passport: Mailed standard; card for book holders.

For expedited: Request at application (+$60, 1-2 day return mail +$21.36). Urgent life/death: Call 1-877-487-2778 for agency appt (proof required, e.g., funeral invite). No routine urgent processing.[2]

Processing Times and Realistic Expectations

Add mailing (1-2 weeks each way). Texas peaks overwhelm—spring/summer waits hit 10+ weeks. Apply 9+ months early for travel. No refunds for delays.[2] Check status weekly.

Special Notes for Minors and Texas Residents

Minors need dual parental involvement—common rejection in family-heavy Kaufman County. If one parent absent: DS-3053 form + ID copy, notarized. Texas birth certs: Order certified ($22) from DSHS or local registrar.[4] Students: Campus mail for renewals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Combine?
No local same-day service. Nearest agency in Dallas requires appt and urgent proof.[2]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60) speeds to 2-3 weeks for any travel. Urgent (agency only) for life/death within 14 days—proof mandatory.[2]

My Texas birth certificate has a raised seal—will it work?
Yes, if certified (not hospital souvenir). Order official copy.[4]

Can I use my old passport as ID for a new one?
Valid passports yes; expired over 5 years, no—use DL.[1]

What if my appointment is full?
Try nearby facilities or waitlist. Some clerks offer walk-ins (call ahead).[7]

How do I replace a lost passport abroad?
Contact U.S. Embassy; limited validity replacement.[1]

Do I need a REAL ID for passport application?
No, but Texas DL is fine ID. REAL ID is for domestic flights.[9]

Can college students renew by mail from dorms?
Yes, if eligible—use campus mail.[3]

Sources

[1]U.S. Passports
[2]Need a Passport Fast?
[3]Renew by Mail
[4]Texas Vital Statistics
[5]Passport Photo Requirements
[6]Passport Fees
[7]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[8]USPS Passport Services
[9]REAL ID