Getting a Passport in Hurst, TX: Facilities, Forms & Steps

Getting a Passport in Hurst, TX

Hurst, TX, residents often need passports for frequent international business trips from nearby DFW International Airport, family vacations, or student exchange programs at local universities like the University of Texas at Arlington. Texas sees higher volumes of seasonal travel during spring break, summer vacations, and winter holidays, plus urgent last-minute trips for work emergencies or family events abroad. With Tarrant County's proximity to major hubs, demand spikes at acceptance facilities, leading to limited appointments—sometimes weeks out during peaks. This guide helps you navigate the process efficiently, addressing common hurdles like photo rejections from shadows or glare, incomplete minor applications, and confusion over renewal forms versus first-time ones. Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can update.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right path saves time and avoids rejections. Use this breakdown:

• First-Time Passport: If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or it's been over 15 years since your last passport (for adults). Apply in person using Form DS-11. Not eligible for mail-in renewal.[1]

• Renewal: Eligible if your passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, and you were 16+ at issuance. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person needed. Ineligible if major name change without docs or if it's damaged. Texas residents often overlook this, submitting DS-11 unnecessarily.[1]

• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Report via Form DS-64 (free report), then apply via DS-11 in person or DS-82 if eligible for renewal. Add $60 execution fee if new app. Urgent? Expedited options apply.[1]

Download forms from the State Department.[2] If unsure, use their wizard: https://pptform.state.gov/.

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Hurst and Tarrant County

Hurst lacks a passport agency (those are for urgent cases only), so use acceptance facilities for routine/book/new apps. Book appointments early—high demand near DFW means slots fill fast, especially spring/summer.[3]

• Hurst Post Office (700 W Pipeline Rd, Hurst, TX 76053): Handles DS-11 apps by appointment. Call (817) 284-5672 or use USPS locator.[4]

• Nearby Options:

  • Bedford Public Library (2400 Forest Ridge Dr, Bedford, TX 76021): Appointments required.[3]
  • Tarrant County Clerk (Tarrant County Courthouse, 100 W Weatherford St, Fort Worth, TX 76196): Multiple locations; check for Hurst-area substations.[5]
  • North Richland Hills Post Office (4900 Rufe Snow Dr, North Richland Hills, TX 76180): Close alternative.[4]

Search exact availability: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/. Texas facilities average 4-6 week waits during peaks; arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.

For renewals, mail DS-82 directly—no local facility needed. Use USPS tracking.[1]

Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Gather everything before applying. Texas births often need certified copies from DSHS Vital Statistics.[6]

General Checklist for All Applicants

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original + photocopy):

   • U.S. birth certificate (certified, raised seal; hospital abstracts invalid).[1]
   • Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
   • Texas tip: Order from https://txapps.texas.gov/tolappov/ if lost ($22).[6]

2. Proof of Identity (original + photocopy):

   • Valid driver's license (Texas DL OK), military ID, or government ID.
   • Name mismatch? Legal docs like marriage certificate.

3. Passport Photo: 2x2 inches, color, white background, <6 months old. No selfies—use CVS/Walgreens ($15).[7]

   • Rejections common: Shadows under chin, glare on glasses, wrong size (measure precisely), smiling/open mouth.

4. Form DS-11 (unsigned until in front of agent) or DS-82.[2]

5. Fees (check/money order; two separate payments):

   Type	Application Fee	Execution Fee	Total (Adult)
   Book (10yr)	$130	$35	$165
   Card (10yr)	$30	$35	$65

   • Expedited: +$60. 1-2 day urgent: +$21.36 delivery.[1]

For Minors Under 16

• Both parents' presence/IDs/consent (Form DS-3053 if one absent).
• Parents' citizenship proof.
• Texas exchange students: School letter helps but not substitute.[1]

Renewals (DS-82)

• Old passport (they'll punch hole).
• New photo.
• Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[1]

Photocopy tip: Single-sided, full page, on standard paper.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow this checklist for in-person apps:

1. Confirm Eligibility: Use State Dept wizard.[2]

2. Gather/Fill Forms: DS-11 by hand/computer (black ink). Do not sign DS-11 early.

3. Get Photo: Professional—avoid home prints. Specs: Head 1-1.375 inches, eyes open, neutral expression, even lighting.[7]

4. Book Appointment: Via facility site/phone. Hurst Post Office: Online via usps.com.[4]

5. Pay Fees: App fee to State Dept, execution to facility. Cash/check accepted variably.

6. Attend Appointment:

   • Arrive early.
   • Submit originals (returned later).
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Get receipt (track at https://passportstatus.state.gov/).

7. Track Progress: 6-8 weeks routine; check online. Peaks (TX spring/summer) add 2-4 weeks—no hard promises.[1]

8. Receive Passport: Mailed standard; opt for delivery tracking.

For mail renewals: Assemble in envelope, mail Priority ($21.36+).[1]

Processing Times and Expedited Services

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail to you). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60 at acceptance).[1] Texas volumes near DFW inflate times—avoid last-minute apps during holidays.

• Urgent Travel (<14 days): Life/death only. Book regional agency appt (Dallas: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies/dallas.html). Proof: Itinerary, death cert. Not for weddings/jobs.[1]

• <28 days: Expedited + agency if needed.

Warn: No guarantees; peaks overwhelm. Apply 3+ months early for Texas travel patterns.

Special Cases Common in Hurst/Tarrant

• Minors/Exchange Students: Dual consent; divorced parents need court docs. UTA students: Proof of enrollment optional.[1]

• Name Changes: Marriage/divorce decree + ID matching new name.

• Lost/Stolen: DS-64 online first.[1]

• Texas Birth Abroad: Consular report.

Vital records delays: Order early from DSHS.[6]

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Limited Appointments: Book 4-6 weeks ahead; use multiple facilities. TX business travelers hit this hard.

• Photo Rejections (30% cases): Shadows/glare from TX sun—indoor studios only. Dimensions: 2x2 exactly.[7]

• Incomplete Docs: Minors miss parental consent; renewals use wrong form. Double-check lists.[1]

• Renewal Confusion: If passport >15 years or damaged, redo DS-11.

• Peak Season Delays: Spring/summer/winter—DFW tourism surges. Urgent? Fly domestic first.

Tip: Photocopy everything; keep originals safe.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Hurst

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These sites do not issue passports directly; instead, they verify your identity, ensure your application is complete, collect fees, and forward everything to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Hurst, you'll find such facilities scattered across the city and nearby communities like Bedford, Euless, North Richland Hills, and parts of Fort Worth. These spots handle both first-time applications and renewals, but availability can vary, so it's wise to confirm details through official channels before visiting.

When visiting an acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals), two passport photos, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees. Expect a brief interview where a designated official administers an oath, reviews documents, and seals your application. The process typically takes 15-30 minutes per person, though wait times can extend due to volume. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or guardians present. Facilities often require appointments, especially for expedited service, and some offer limited walk-in slots.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities in the Hurst area tend to see higher traffic during peak travel seasons, such as summer vacation periods and before major holidays like spring break or Thanksgiving. Mondays are often the busiest weekdays, as people catch up after the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently experience the longest lines. To minimize delays, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and consider mid-week visits like Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Always check for appointment options in advance, as walk-ins may face extended waits or turnaways during high-demand times. Arrive with all documents organized, and have backups for photos or IDs. Planning ahead with the official U.S. State Department website can help verify current procedures and avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Hurst?
No routine same-day; urgent agency only for qualifying emergencies (<14 days, life/death proof). Dallas agency 30 miles away.[1]

What's the difference between passport book and card?
Book for all travel (air/land/sea intl); card for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean. Cheaper card for TX border trips.[1]

Do I need an appointment at Hurst Post Office?
Yes, book via usps.com or call. Walk-ins rare, rejected during peaks.[4]

How do I renew if my passport is expiring soon?
DS-82 by mail if eligible; apply anytime up to 1 year before expiry. Can't use if damaged.[1]

What if my child’s other parent won’t consent?
Sole custody docs or court order required. No exceptions.[1]

Can I track my application?
Yes, enter receipt number at https://passportstatus.state.gov/. Allow 1-2 weeks post-submission.[1]

Is a Texas birth certificate valid proof?
Yes, if certified (raised seal) from DSHS or county. Abstractions invalid.[6]

What about expedited for business travel?
+$60 for 2-3 weeks; still plan ahead—no peak guarantees.[1]

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Passport Forms
[3]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[4]USPS Passport Services
[5]Tarrant County Clerk Passports
[6]Texas Vital Statistics
[7]Passport Photo Requirements