Getting a Passport in Pittsburg, TX: Apply, Renew, Facilities

By GovComplete Team • Published on: January 31, 2026

Location: Pittsburg, TX

Getting a Passport in Pittsburg, TX

Residents of Pittsburg, Texas, in Camp County, frequently need passports for quick trips across the nearby Mexico border, family vacations to Europe or the Caribbean during spring break and summer, winter escapes to beach destinations, or student programs abroad. Texas travel peaks in March-May (spring break), June-August (summer), and December-February (holidays/winter), creating 4-6+ week waits for appointments—longer in small towns like Pittsburg where slots are limited. Urgent cases, like last-minute funerals or overseas job starts within 14 days, demand expedited processing. Avoid common mistakes: photos rejected for Texas sunlight glare, headwear shadows, smiling, or not exactly 2x2 inches on white background; DS-11/DS-82 forms missing notarization, IDs, or both parents' consent for kids under 16; applying for renewal too early (must be within 1 year of expiration or expired); or picking standard service when you qualify for expedited (extra fee, faster delivery). Decision tip: Check your timeline first—if traveling in 6+ weeks, go standard; 3-6 weeks, expedite; under 14 days to a foreign country, seek urgent life-or-death service with proof. This guide follows U.S. Department of State rules for efficient prep.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right path saves time, avoids rejections, and cuts costs—standard is cheapest but slowest (6-8 weeks processing + mailing). Here's how to decide based on your situation:

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport (or if your last one was issued before age 16 or more than 15 years ago), this process applies. In Pittsburg, TX, apply in person at a local passport acceptance facility—typically post offices or county offices—using Form DS-11. Download and fill it out in advance but do not sign until instructed by the agent during your visit. No online, mail-in, or renewal-by-mail option exists for first-timers [2].

Key Steps and Documents:

Gather originals + photocopies: Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate), valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license), and one photocopy each of ID and citizenship proof on plain white 8.5x11 paper.
Get a passport photo: 2x2 inches, color, white background, taken within 6 months—many pharmacies or photo shops in the area offer this for $15–20.
Pay fees: Application fee (~~$130 adult/$100 child) by check/money order to U.S. Department of State; execution fee (~~$35) payable to the facility (cash/check/card varies).
Book ahead: Call facilities for hours/appointments; small-town spots like those in Pittsburg fill up fast, especially pre-summer or holidays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Signing DS-11 early (it invalidates the form—start over).
Using laminated/glossy photocopies or colored paper.
Forgetting child's presence if applying for a minor (both parents/guardians often required).
Underestimating processing time: 6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 weeks expedited (+$60 fee).

Decision Guidance:

Routine travel (2+ months away): Use local Pittsburg facility for convenience and lower cost.
Urgent (under 2 weeks): Opt for expedited + overnight return (+$21.36), or plan a trip to a regional passport agency for same-day (requires proof of imminent travel).
Families/groups: Apply together to save trips; kids under 16 need parental consent forms. Check travel.state.gov for latest fees/forms and to confirm your eligibility.

Passport Renewal

Pittsburg, TX residents can often renew passports by mail or online (in limited cases via MyTravelGov on travel.state.gov) if you meet all these criteria—use this checklist to confirm eligibility before starting:

Your previous passport was issued when you were 16 or older (check the issue date inside the book).
It was issued within the last 15 years (from the issue date, not expiration—common mistake: confusing these dates).
You're not reporting changes to your name, gender, date/place of birth, or having a significantly different appearance (e.g., major surgery, extreme weight change, or new hairstyle obscuring features).

Steps for Eligible Renewals (Form DS-82)

Download/print Form DS-82 from travel.state.gov—do not use DS-11 (for new passports; top common mistake).
Attach one recent 2x2-inch color photo meeting exact specs (white background, head size 1-1⅜ inches; get at CVS/Walgreens or home printer—avoid selfies or expired photos).
Include your old passport, fees (check/money order payable to U.S. Department of State; credit card option online only), and any name change proof if minor.
Mail in your own envelope (certified recommended for tracking). Online? Create MyTravelGov account first—faster for routine cases, but not all qualify.

Decision Guidance: Yes to all criteria? Renew by mail/online (6-8 weeks processing; expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee). Any "no"? You must reapply in person as a new applicant (Form DS-11) at a passport acceptance facility—search travel.state.gov locator for nearby options like post offices or clerks (bring ID/proof of citizenship; appointments often required). Texas residents with passports expired over 15 years always reapply as first-time.

Top Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Submitting without photo or wrong size/format (causes 30%+ rejections).
Forgetting to sign Form DS-82 (must be done by you, not someone else).
Mailing to wrong address (follow form instructions exactly).
Ignoring expedited needs—plan 10+ weeks ahead for travel; track status online post-submission.

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

If valid and undamaged: Report it and apply for replacement with DS-11 or DS-82 (if eligible).
If expired: Renew normally. Always report loss/stolen via Form DS-64 first [3]. Urgent replacements may qualify for expedited service.

Texas-specific note: For proof of citizenship, many use birth certificates from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Order certified copies early if needed, as processing can take weeks [4].

Required Documents Checklist

Gather everything before heading to a facility—missing items are a top rejection reason. Use this prep checklist:

General Prep Checklist

Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (TX-issued from DSHS if born here), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport. Photocopies required too [2].
Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license (Texas DL), military ID, or government ID. Name must match citizenship doc exactly [2].
Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo, taken within 6 months. See photo section below [5].
Form: DS-11 (first-time/replacement), DS-82 (renewal). Download from travel.state.gov [2].
Fees: See fees section.
Names Don't Match? Provide marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order [2].

For Texas birth certificates, request from DSHS Vital Statistics (online, mail, or county clerk). Expect 15-20 business days standard; expedited available but costs extra [4].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections in busy areas like East Texas. Specs are strict [5]:

2x2 inches (51x51 mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.
Color on photo-quality paper, white/neutral background.
Full face, eyes open, neutral expression.
No glasses (unless medically necessary with no glare), hats (except religious), uniforms.
Even lighting—no shadows, glare, or distance extremes.

Texas tip: Local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS in Pittsburg offer compliant photos for $15-20. Take multiples; facilities don't provide them. Digital uploads for renewals must meet same rules [5].

Step-by-Step Application Checklist for First-Time or Replacement (In-Person, DS-11)

Follow this for adults/minors at Pittsburg facilities. Do not sign DS-11 until instructed.

Fill Out Form DS-11: Online at travel.state.gov (print single-sided) or by hand. Black ink only [2].
Gather Documents: Citizenship proof + photocopy, ID + photocopy, photo, fees.
Book Appointment: Call facility 2-4 weeks ahead—high demand in Camp County during travel seasons [6].
Arrive Early: Bring all originals/photocopies. Present to acceptance agent.
Swear Oath and Sign: Agent witnesses; pay fees.
Track Application: Note agency stamp; check status online after 1 week [7].

For Minors Under 16:

Both parents/guardians present (or notarized consent Form DS-3053).
Child's presence required.
Extra docs: parents' IDs/citizenship proofs [8]. Texas child safety laws align; parental consent avoids court delays.

Renewal by Mail Checklist (DS-82, if Eligible):

Complete DS-82.
Include old passport, photo, fees (check/money order).
Mail to address on form [2]. Online renewal available for some via MyTravelGov—no photo needed [9].

Where to Apply in Pittsburg and Camp County

Pittsburg has limited facilities; book ASAP as Texas sees surges for spring/summer travel and student programs.

Pittsburg Post Office: 133 Lindsey St, Pittsburg, TX 75686. Phone: (903) 856-2571. Open weekdays; accepts DS-11/DS-82 execution. Appointments via USPS online locator or phone—often booked weeks out [6].
Camp County Clerk's Office: 159 E Church St, Pittsburg, TX 75686. Phone: (903) 856-7523. Handles DS-11; county vital records also available. Call for hours/appointments [10].

No clerkships or libraries listed as facilities nearby; confirm via State Department's search [11]. Nearest regional passport agency: Dallas (4-hour drive), for urgent in-person only [12]. Drive times factor into urgent planning.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Pittsburg

Passport acceptance facilities in and around Pittsburg provide essential services for individuals applying for U.S. passports. These locations are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review applications, verify documents, and forward them for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and certain municipal or court buildings. They handle new passports, renewals, child applications, and replacements but do not produce or issue the actual passport documents themselves—that step occurs at a regional passport agency after approval.

At these facilities, applicants can expect a structured process. Staff will check your completed application form (such as DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals), proof of citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate), valid government-issued photo ID, one or two passport-sized photos, and the required fees split between application and execution costs. Photos must meet specific standards: 2x2 inches, color, on white background, taken within the last six months. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent, with additional documentation.

The experience often involves waiting in line, especially for walk-ins, followed by an interview where agents witness your signature and administer an oath. Not all sites provide photo services, so come prepared. Execution fees are typically paid by check or money order, while application fees can sometimes be paid by credit card. Always review the latest guidelines on travel.state.gov to ensure compliance and avoid rejection.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Facilities around Pittsburg often see peak crowds during high-travel seasons like summer and pre-holiday periods, when vacation planning surges. Mondays are generally busier as people kick off the week, and mid-day slots (roughly 11 AM to 2 PM) fill up quickly with lunch breaks and shift changes.

To navigate this, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays through Thursdays, when volumes tend to dip. Off-season visits in fall or winter can mean shorter waits. Where possible, book appointments in advance to secure a spot and reduce uncertainty. Pack patience, arrive early, and double-check documents—small oversights can lead to rescheduling. Monitoring for any local advisories helps tailor your timing effectively.

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Fees and Payment Methods

Pay acceptance fee (to facility) + application fee (to State Dept) separately [13]:

Adult Book (10-yr): $130 application + $35 acceptance = $165.
Adult Card (travel to Bermuda etc.): $30 + $35 = $65.
Minor Book (5-yr): $100 + $35 = $135.
Execution fee: Check/money order. Expedited: +$60 [13].

Facility payments: Cash/check (post office), money order. State Dept: Check/money order only—no credit cards at acceptance [13]. Texas sales tax may apply at some spots.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mailed back). No tracking until week 2 [7]. Peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) add 2-4 weeks—don't count on last-minute [1].

Expedited (+$60): 2-3 weeks; includes 1-2 day return ($21.36).
Urgent (14 days or less): Life/death emergency only; in-person at agency with proof (e.g., death certificate). Not for vacations [14].

Texas business travelers or students: Expedite early. High demand overwhelms systems; facilities warn against relying on rush during breaks [1]. Track at travel.state.gov.

Special Considerations for Texas Residents

Birth Certificates: DSHS issues; Pittsburg/Camp births via county clerk or DSHS. Heirloom certificates invalid—must be certified [4].
Name Changes: Texas marriage/divorce docs accepted [2].
Students/Exchanges: Universities like UT Tyler (nearby) offer group sessions; check for Pittsburg High School programs.
Urgent Travel: Airlines require passports 72+ hours pre-flight; plan buffers [15].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Pittsburg, TX?
No local same-day service. Nearest agency (Dallas) requires appointments for urgent cases only (proof needed). Routine/expedited via mail [12].

What if my Texas birth certificate is lost?
Order certified copy from DSHS Vital Statistics (dshs.texas.gov) or Camp County Clerk. Rush service: 1-2 days extra fee [4].

How do I renew an expired passport from 20 years ago?
Treat as first-time: DS-11 in person [2].

My child needs a passport for a school trip— what’s required?
Both parents present; DS-3053 if one absent. Child must attend [8].

Are passport cards accepted for international travel from Texas?
Yes for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean/Bermuda; no air travel [13].

What if my photo gets rejected at the facility?
Retake immediately nearby (e.g., Walgreens). No refunds; delays application [5].

Can I mail my first-time application from Pittsburg?
No, DS-11 requires in-person [2].

Peak season appointments—how far in advance?
2-6 weeks; call multiple facilities. Texas spring break fills fast [6].

Sources

Aaron Kramer

Passport Services Expert & Founder

Aaron Kramer is the founder of GovComplete and a passport services expert with over 15 years of experience in the U.S. passport industry. Throughout his career, Aaron has helped thousands of travelers navigate the complexities of passport applications, renewals, and expedited processing. His deep understanding of State Department regulations, acceptance facility operations, and emergency travel documentation has made him a trusted resource for both first-time applicants and seasoned travelers. Aaron's mission is to make government services accessible and stress-free for everyone.

15+ Years Experience Expedited Processing State Dept. Regulations