Passport Guide for DeCordova TX: Forms, Fees, Granbury Locations

Getting a Passport in DeCordova, TX

DeCordova, a small community in Hood County, Texas, sits about 10 miles from Granbury and roughly an hour southwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Residents here often need passports for frequent international business trips, family vacations to Mexico or Europe, or seasonal travel during spring break, summer, and winter holidays. Texas sees high volumes of outbound travel, including students participating in exchange programs at nearby universities like Tarleton State or TCU, and urgent scenarios like last-minute family emergencies abroad. However, high demand at passport acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons. Common hurdles include photo rejections from poor lighting or sizing, confusion over forms for renewals versus first-time applications, and incomplete paperwork for minors. This guide draws from official U.S. Department of State resources to help you navigate the process efficiently [1].

Planning ahead is key—avoid relying on last-minute processing during busy periods like summer or holidays, as even expedited services face backlogs [2].

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Texas applicants, like those in DeCordova, often mix up renewals with new applications, leading to rejections.

First-Time Passport (New Applicants)

If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or it's damaged/lost/stolen and unrecoverable, you must apply in person using Form DS-11—no renewals allowed. This covers most DeCordova, TX adults starting fresh with travel documents, plus all children under 16 [1].

Quick Decision Guide:

• Yes, use DS-11 if: First passport ever; prior passport from before age 16; no current passport to submit.
• No, consider renewal (DS-82) if: You have your undamaged passport issued at 16+ that's still valid or expired less than 5 years ago (adults only).

Practical Steps for DeCordova Residents:

1. Download/print Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov (do not sign until instructed by the agent).
2. Gather: Original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate—photocopies won't work), valid photo ID (driver's license + Social Security card if needed), two passport photos (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months at places like CVS/Walgreens), and payment (check/money order for fees; credit cards not always accepted).
3. For kids under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear (or submit sole custody docs); child must attend.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 early—it invalidates the form.
• Using expired/low-quality photos (check state.gov specs or get pro help).
• Forgetting parental consent for minors (can delay by weeks).
• Underestimating time: Book appointments early, as Texas facilities get busy—aim for 6-8 weeks processing (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee).

Apply at any authorized passport acceptance facility; first-timers can't mail it. Track status online post-submission.

Passport Renewal

Eligible if your most recent passport:

• Was issued when you were 16 or older,
• Was issued within the last 15 years,
• Is undamaged and in your possession.

Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person visit needed. Texas renewals spike in spring/summer; mail early to avoid delays [1].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• If you have the old passport: Use DS-82 (renewal form) and submit it.
• If lost/stolen/damaged and not submittable: Use DS-11 (new application) in person. Report loss/theft online first via Form DS-64 [1].

Additional Passports (Multiple for Frequent Travelers)

Business travelers from Hood County can request a second passport book using DS-82 or DS-11 if eligible, useful for overlapping visa requirements [1].

*Depends on possession of old passport [1].

Required Documents and Eligibility

U.S. citizenship is required. Gather originals—photocopies won't suffice [1].

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (One Required)

• U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy from Texas Vital Statistics or county clerk) [3].
• Naturalization Certificate.
• Previous U.S. passport.

Texas residents often source birth certificates from the Hood County Clerk (Granbury) or Texas DSHS for older records. Request certified copies early; processing takes 10-15 business days [3].

Proof of Identity

• Valid driver's license (Texas DL from Hood County Tax Office).
• Military ID or government employee ID.
• If name differs from citizenship doc, provide legal name change docs (marriage certificate, court order) [1].

For Minors Under 16

Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Texas exchange students face this often; incomplete parental consent causes 30% of child application rejections [1].

Fees

Pay by check/money order: Execution fee ($35 adult/$30 child) to acceptance facility; application fee ($130 book adult/$100 child) to State Department. Expedited adds $60 [4].

Download forms from the State Department site—do not sign DS-11 until instructed [1].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for many Texas application failures due to home printers causing glare/shadows or incorrect 2x2-inch sizing on white background [5].

Specs [5]:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Recent (6 months), color, plain white/light background.
• Neutral expression, full face view, no glasses/headwear (unless religious/medical).

Local options near DeCordova:

• CVS/Walgreens in Granbury (print passport photos for ~$15).
• Hood County Clerk may offer on-site.

Reject risks: Shadows from overhead lights, glare on glasses, dimensions off by 1/8 inch. Use official guides or apps for measurement [5].

Where to Apply Near DeCordova

DeCordova lacks a dedicated facility, so head to Granbury (10-15 min drive). Book appointments online—slots fill fast in peak travel seasons [6].

Passport Acceptance Facilities

1. Granbury Post Office (200 N Travis St, Granbury, TX 76048; 817-573-5466).

   • Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-3PM (call to confirm).
   • Offers photos? No, but nearby pharmacies do [6].

2. Hood County Clerk's Office (100 E Pearl St, Granbury, TX 76048; 817-579-3282).

   • Mon-Fri 8AM-4:30PM.
   • Handles minors, first-time; accepts Texas birth certificates [7].

Locator: Use the official tool for updates [6]. No walk-ins during high-demand periods like summer breaks.

For renewals: Mail to National Passport Processing Center (use USPS Priority with tracking) [1].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around DeCordova

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to process new passport applications and renewals. These facilities, often found at post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, or municipal buildings, do not issue passports themselves. Instead, trained agents review your completed application, verify your identity and citizenship documents, administer an oath, witness your signature, and collect fees before forwarding everything to a regional passport agency for processing.

When visiting a facility, come prepared with all required items: a completed DS-11 form for first-time applicants (or DS-82 for renewals), original proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, two passport photos meeting State Department specifications, and payment (typically a check or money order for government fees, plus any execution fee). Expect the agent to scrutinize your documents closely for completeness and authenticity—any discrepancies may require corrections or additional proof. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant, but wait times vary. Children under 16 must appear in person with both parents or legal guardians, adding extra verification steps.

In and around DeCordova, several types of public facilities serve as potential acceptance points. Local post offices handle a significant volume of applications, while libraries and government offices in nearby towns offer convenient options during standard business days. Always confirm eligibility and procedures through the official State Department website or by contacting facilities directly, as services can change.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

In DeCordova and nearby Hood County areas, passport acceptance facilities experience peak crowds during Texas summer vacations (June-August), major holidays like spring break and Thanksgiving, and local events such as the Granbury Peach Festival or hunting season openings in fall. Mondays are busiest due to weekend backlog and renewed travel plans, while mid-day windows (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) fill fast from lunch breaks and retirees. Common mistake: Assuming small-town spots stay quiet—weekends and Fridays before long weekends surprise with out-of-towners.

Decision guidance: For fastest service, target Tuesday-Thursday early mornings (8-10 a.m.) or late afternoons (3-5 p.m.), especially in off-peak months like January-February or September-October when school is in session and tourism dips. Check for Texas state holidays or severe weather alerts, which can cause unexpected surges or closures. Most locations offer online appointments—book 2-4 weeks ahead via the official U.S. Department of State site to secure slots. Pro tip: Use the "travel not within 6 weeks" filter if your trip is flexible to avoid expedited lines. Arrive 15 minutes early with docs in a clear plastic sleeve (not loose papers), wear business casual for quick ID photos, and verify Texas-specific rules like enhanced Real ID compliance online. Bring a book—waits average 30-60 minutes but can hit 2 hours during peaks.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application

Use this checklist to gather and verify all items before heading out—Texas residents can pre-fill Form DS-11 online and save 20-30 minutes. Common pitfalls: Incomplete proofs of citizenship (e.g., missing long-form birth certificate seals) or expired IDs cause 40% of rejections; photocopies instead of originals trip up half of first-timers. Double-check against the State Department's Texas page for updates.

1. Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until in-person; download from travel.state.gov).
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport).
3. Proof of Identity (valid driver's license, military ID, or Real ID-compliant Texas DL).
4. Passport Photo (2x2 inches, recent, white background—many Walgreens or CVS in Granbury area do them for $15).
5. Payment (check/money order for fees; cash may not be accepted everywhere).
6. Parental Consent (if under 16: both parents' presence or notarized Form DS-3053).

Print two checklist copies—one to mark off, one for the counter. If renewing, confirm if you qualify for mail-in to skip lines entirely.

Pre-Application Steps

• Confirm need (first-time/renewal/replacement) and download correct form [1].
• Gather citizenship proof (e.g., order Texas birth cert if needed) [3].
• Get 2x2 photos (2 identical sets for minors/expedite) [5].
• Complete form but do not sign DS-11.
• Calculate fees; prepare checks (two separate).
• Book appointment at Granbury facility [6].
• For minors: Both parents or DS-3053 notarized.
• For urgent travel (<14 days): Gather itinerary/proof.

At the Facility

• Arrive 15 min early with all originals.
• Present docs; agent verifies.
• Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
• Pay execution fee (cash/check).
• Receive receipt; application fees go with package.

Total prep: 1-2 weeks if ordering docs [1].

Step-by-Step Checklist: After Submission

Postmark your application correctly to avoid returns.

• Track status online (create account at State Dept site) 7-10 days after submission [2].
• For expedited: Add $60 fee, use 1-2 day delivery both ways (~$20+).
• Urgent travel (<14 days): Call 1-877-487-2778 for life-or-death expedite [1].
• Monitor mail; passport arrives in plain envelope.
• If delayed > processing estimate, contact via portal [2].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (book), 10-12 weeks (card) door-to-door. Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). No guarantees—peak seasons (spring/summer, winter) add 2-4 weeks regionally [2].

Texas urgent confusion: Expedited ≠ same-day. True emergencies (<14 days, life/death) qualify for in-person at Dallas Passport Agency (2+ hrs from DeCordova; appointment only via 1-877-487-2778) [1].

DFW proximity helps business travelers, but book facilities early.

Special Considerations for Texas Residents

Hood County birth certificates: Obtain from County Clerk ($22) or DSHS for statewide ($22) [3]. Students: School ID aids identity proof.

Frequent flyers: Consider passport cards for land/sea to Mexico/Canada/Caribbean (cheaper, shorter processing) [1].

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a passport from DeCordova?
Expect 6-8 weeks routine from Granbury submission. Expedite to 2-3 weeks, but peak seasons delay further [2].

Can I renew my passport by mail if I live in DeCordova?
Yes, if eligible (DS-82). Mail from Granbury Post Office for tracking [1].

What if my child needs a passport urgently for a Texas exchange program?
Both parents must consent; expedite if <14 days. No same-day locally [1].

Why was my photo rejected at the Hood County Clerk?
Common issues: glare, shadows, wrong size. Specs are strict—use pharmacies [5].

Do I need an appointment at Granbury Post Office?
Yes, book via USPS site; limited slots during summer travel rush [6].

Can I get a birth certificate same-day in Hood County?
County Clerk offers walk-in certified copies Mon-Fri; order ahead for speed [7].

Is there a passport agency in Granbury?
No—nearest is Dallas (Fort Worth actually, but agency in Dallas). For routine, use local facilities [1].

What if my passport is lost while traveling from Texas?
Report via DS-64 online; apply for replacement upon return [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Processing Times
[3]Texas Department of State Health Services - Vital Statistics
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[6]USPS Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[7]Hood County Clerk's Office