Guide to Getting a Passport in Centerville, UT: Steps & Locations

Getting a Passport in Centerville, UT

Centerville, located in Davis County, Utah, is a growing community north of Salt Lake City with residents who frequently travel internationally for business, tourism, and family visits. Utah sees higher volumes of passport applications during spring and summer vacations, winter breaks, and around student exchange programs at nearby universities like the University of Utah or Weber State. Last-minute trips for urgent business or family emergencies are also common. However, high demand at local acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointment availability, especially in peak seasons. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, helping you avoid pitfalls like photo rejections due to shadows or glare, incomplete forms for minors, or using the wrong renewal form.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before starting, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. The U.S. Department of State handles all passport services, and eligibility depends on your current passport status.[1]

• First-Time Passport: If you've never had a U.S. passport, use Form DS-11. You must apply in person at an acceptance facility. This applies to children under 16 and most adults applying for the first time.[2]

• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued when you were 16 or older, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you still have it. Use Form DS-82 and mail it (or apply in person if preferred). You cannot renew if your passport was issued in your maiden name and you haven't updated other IDs, or if it's damaged.[2]

• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: Report it lost/stolen via Form DS-64 (free), then apply using DS-11 (first-time/new) or DS-82 (if eligible to renew). Expedited options may apply for urgent needs.[3]

If unsure, download forms from the State Department site and check the instructions.[2]

Where to Get Passport Services in Centerville and Davis County

Centerville residents can apply at nearby passport acceptance facilities (PAFs). These are contracted by the State Department and include post offices, county clerks, and libraries. Book appointments early via the facility's website or phone, as slots fill quickly during travel peaks.[4]

• Centerville Post Office (504 N Main St, Centerville, UT 84014): Offers full passport services, including photos. Call (801) 295-6352 or check usps.com for appointments.[5]

• Davis County Clerk (61 S Main St, Farmington, UT 84025, ~5 miles north): Processes first-time, renewals, and minors. Appointments required; photos available. Phone: (801) 451-3412.[6]

• Bountiful Post Office (352 W 1500 S, Bountiful, UT 84010, ~4 miles south): Busy but convenient; photos on-site.[5]

• Other Nearby: Kaysville Post Office or South Weber City Hall for alternatives if Centerville is booked.

For renewals by mail, send to the address on Form DS-82—no local visit needed. Vital records for birth certificates (required for first-time) come from Utah Vital Records or Davis County Health Dept.[7]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Centerville

Centerville and its surrounding communities offer access to various passport acceptance facilities, making it convenient for residents and visitors to apply for or renew U.S. passports. Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review, witness, and seal passport applications. These are not processing centers—the actual passport production happens at national agencies—but they handle the initial submission steps. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. To find options, use the official State Department locator tool online, as availability can change.

At these facilities, expect a straightforward but thorough process. Arrive with a completed DS-11 form for new passports (or DS-82 for renewals by mail where eligible), a valid photo meeting strict specifications (2x2 inches, recent, plain background), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), photo ID, and payment split between application fees (check or money order) and execution fees (cash, check, or card depending on the site). Staff will verify documents, administer an oath, and seal your application in an envelope. Processing times start at 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited; plan months ahead for peak travel. No passport photos are typically taken on-site, so prepare them beforehand from pharmacies or dedicated studios.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like spring break, summer vacations, and holidays such as Thanksgiving or year-end. Mondays tend to be the busiest weekdays due to weekend backlog, with mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) peaking as people schedule lunch breaks. Avoid these cautiously by opting for early mornings, late afternoons, or Fridays.

To plan effectively, check each facility's website or call ahead for appointment requirements—many now mandate them to reduce wait times. Bring all documents organized in a folder, arrive 15-30 minutes early, and have backups like extra photos. If urgency arises, consider expedited services or regional passport agencies for faster handling, though those require proof of imminent travel. Always confirm details via official sources to ensure a smooth experience.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Your Passport Application

Follow this checklist to prepare. Gather documents 4-6 weeks before travel, as routine processing takes 6-8 weeks (avoid relying on last-minute during peaks).[1]

General Preparation

• Determine your service type (first-time, renewal, replacement, or minor):
  First-time, lost/stolen/damaged passport, or name change > DS-11 (in-person only).
  Renewal > DS-82 (mail if eligible: undamaged passport issued ≥16 years old, expiring soon).
  Common mistake: Using DS-11 for easy renewals—check eligibility first to save time/money. Download forms from travel.state.gov.[2]
• Check expiration date: Adult passports valid 10 years from issue; minors (under 16) 5 years. Renew anytime, but start 6-9 months early—processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (longer in peak seasons like summer).[1]
• Gather proof of U.S. citizenship: Bring original/certified U.S. birth certificate (U.S.-issued only), naturalization certificate, or undamaged prior passport. Also bring photocopy (front/back on standard 8.5x11 paper).
  Decision tip: If born in Utah and original is lost, order certified copy from state vital records (allow 2-4 weeks). No hospital "short form" or foreign docs.[1]
• Proof of identity: Valid driver's license (Utah DL works), military ID, or current passport. Name must exactly match citizenship docs—no nicknames.
  Common mistake: Expired ID or mismatch—update DL first via Utah DMV if needed.[1]
• Get passport photos: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream background, head 1-1⅜ inches, taken <6 months ago. No glasses (even prescription), uniforms, hats, shadows, or smiles showing teeth.
  Pro tip: Local pharmacies, UPS stores, or libraries often provide ($10-15); avoid selfies/home prints—60% rejections from bad photos. Check sample on state.gov.[8]
• Calculate fees (see Fees section): Use state.gov calculator for exact amount; include expedited if urgent. Pay by check/money order (fees split: application + execution).
• Book appointment at a Passport Acceptance Facility (PAF) if using DS-11 (required for first-time/minors). Check travel.state.gov for nearby options—many book out weeks ahead in Davis County area, so schedule early.[1]

Application Day Checklist (DS-11 In-Person)

• Complete Form DS-11 but do not sign until instructed.
• Bring all originals + photocopies (8.5x11 paper, front/back same side).
• Two identical photos.
• Payment: Check/money order for State Dept fee; cash/card for execution fee.
• For minors: Both parents/guardians present or notarized consent (DS-3053).[9]

Mailing Renewals (DS-82)

• Sign and date form.
• Include old passport, photo, fees.
• Use USPS Priority Mail Express for tracking.[10]

Track status online after 7-10 days at travel.state.gov.[1]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections. Specs: 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches, recent (within 6 months), neutral expression, even lighting—no shadows, glare, uniforms, or selfies.[8]

Local options:

• USPS locations in Centerville/Bountiful ($15-17).[5]
• CVS/Walgreens in Centerville (501 N 400 W).
• AAA (if member) or Costco nearby.

Digital check: Upload to State Dept photo tool.[8]

Fees and Payment

Fees as of 2024 (subject to change):[1]

• First-time adult book: $130 + $35 execution.
• Renewal: $130.
• Minor (<16): $100 + $35.
• Expedited: +$60; 1-2 day urgent (+$22+ overnight).[11]

Execution fee ($35) to facility; State fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State." Cards often accepted at PAFs.[4]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail time included). Expedited (2-3 weeks): +$60, available at PAFs or mail.[1] No guarantees—peaks like summer/winter add delays. For travel in 14 days or less:

• Life-or-death emergency: In-person at regional agency (Salt Lake City Passport Agency, 125 S State St, SLC—by appointment only).[12]
• Urgent business: Expedited + call 1-877-487-2778.

Warns against last-minute: High demand overwhelms systems; apply early.[1]

Special Cases: Minors and Urgent Travel

Minors under 16: DS-11 in-person; both parents/guardians or DS-3053 consent. Presence or notarized statement from absent parent. Divorce/death docs if applicable. Common issue: Incomplete parental ID.[9]

Urgent Travel: Within 14 days? Expedite and prove with itinerary. Students/exchange: School letter helps. Business: Employer letter.[1]

Birth Certificates: Utah residents order from vitalrecords.utah.gov ($22+ expedited). Davis County Health for local.[7]

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

• Limited Appointments: Check multiple PAFs; weekdays mornings best. Utah's seasonal travel spikes Centerville-area waits.[4]
• Expedited Confusion: Expedited ≠ urgent service. Urgent only for <14 days with proof.[11]
• Photo Rejections: Use professional service; check State Dept validator.[8]
• Docs for Minors: All parents must consent; no exceptions.[9]
• Renewal Mistakes: Wrong form if >15 years old or damaged—treat as new.[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my passport at the Centerville Post Office?
Yes, but only if eligible (DS-82). Otherwise, DS-11 in-person. Confirm via phone.[5]

How long does it take to get a passport in Utah during summer?
Routine 6-8 weeks, but peaks add 2-4 weeks. Expedite for 2-3 weeks—no promises.[1]

What if my child needs a passport urgently for a school trip?
DS-11 with both parents; expedite + school proof. Agency for <14 days.[9][12]

Do I need an appointment at Davis County Clerk?
Yes, book online or call. Walk-ins rare during busy times.[6]

Can I use my old passport as photo ID?
Yes, if undamaged and <15 years old.[1]

Where do I get a birth certificate in Davis County?
Utah Vital Records online or Davis County Health Dept (22 S State St, Farmington).[7]

Is there a passport fair in Centerville?
Occasional at libraries/post offices—check usps.com events. Not guaranteed.[4]

What if my passport is lost abroad?
Contact U.S. Embassy; temporary for return, full replacement later.[13]

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Passport Forms
[3]Lost/Stolen Passports
[4]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[5]USPS Passport Services
[6]Davis County Clerk Passports
[7]Utah Vital Records
[8]Passport Photo Requirements
[9]Children’s Passports
[10]Renew by Mail
[11]Expedited Service
[12]Passport Agencies
[13]Passports Abroad