Washington UT Passport Guide: Forms, Photos, Local Facilities

Guide to Obtaining a Passport in Washington, UT

Residents of Washington, Utah, in Washington County, often need passports for frequent international business trips, tourism to destinations like Mexico or Europe, and seasonal travel spikes during spring and summer vacations or winter breaks. Students from Utah Tech University in nearby St. George participate in exchange programs, while urgent last-minute trips for family emergencies or work add pressure. High demand at local facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons. This guide provides a straightforward path to applying, drawing from official U.S. Department of State requirements to help you navigate common pitfalls like photo rejections or form confusion.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct process and form. Misusing forms, such as submitting a first-time application for a renewal, causes delays.

• First-Time Passport: Required if you've never had a U.S. passport. Use Form DS-11. You must apply in person at an acceptance facility.[1]
• Renewal: Eligible if your previous passport was issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, and is undamaged. Use Form DS-82 and mail it (or at some locations). Not available if your passport was issued before age 16 or more than 15 years ago.[1]
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: Use Form DS-64 to report it (free if stolen), then DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (mail) depending on eligibility. Provide evidence like a police report for theft.[1]
• Name Change or Correction: Use Form DS-5504 if changed within one year of issuance; otherwise, treat as renewal or new.[1]

For minors under 16, always use DS-11 in person with both parents/guardians present—renewals aren't an option.[1] Check eligibility using the State Department's online wizard.[2]

Gather Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure completeness. Incomplete applications are a top rejection reason, especially for minors missing parental consent.[1]

1. Complete the Form:

   • Download from the State Department: DS-11 (in-person), DS-82 (renewal by mail).[3]
   • Fill out but do not sign DS-11 until instructed at the facility.[1]

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

   • U.S. birth certificate (issued by city, county, or state—not hospital), naturalization certificate, or previous passport.[1]
   • Utah residents: Order from Utah Vital Records if needed.[4] Long-form certificates work best for minors.

3. Proof of Identity (original + photocopy):

   • Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Must match form name exactly.[1]

4. Passport Photo (two identical, 2x2 inches):

   • Taken within 6 months, plain white/cream background, no glasses/selfies.[5] See photo section below.

5. Payment:

   • Application fee (non-refundable): $130 adult/DS-11, $100 child; $30 acceptance fee.[1]
   • Execution fee payable to facility (check/cash/money order).[6]
   • Expedited: +$60.[1]

6. For Minors Under 16:

   • Both parents' IDs and presence, or notarized Form DS-3053 from absent parent.[1]
   • Parental Awareness Form if one parent sole legal custodian.[7]

7. Photocopies: 1x1.5 inch single-sided on standard paper.[1]

Print this checklist and verify twice. During high-demand periods like summer in Washington County, errors delay processing amid backlogs.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections due to shadows, glare, wrong size, or smiles.[5] Washington, UT, lacks many professional services, so plan ahead.

Step-by-Step Photo Checklist:

• Dimensions: Exactly 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.[5]
• Background: Plain white/off-white, no patterns/objects.
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open.
• Attire: Everyday clothing, no uniforms; avoid white shirts.
• Lighting: Even, no shadows/glare on face/glasses.
• Glasses: Allowed if no glare and eyes visible (medical proof if needed).
• Headwear: Only for religious/medical reasons, face fully visible.

Get photos at CVS, Walgreens, or USPS in St. George/Washington (confirm passport service).[8] Selfies or home printers fail digital checks. Cost: $15-20 for two.[5]

Where to Apply in Washington County

Washington, UT, has limited facilities; book early via online appointment systems—slots fill fast during spring break or winter holidays.[9]

• Washington County Clerk/Auditor (St. George, 10 miles away): 111 E Tabernacle St, St. George, UT. Handles DS-11.[10]
• Washington City Offices: Check for passport services; often refers to county.[11]
• USPS Locations: Washington Post Office (848 E Washington Dam Rd) or St. George Main (209 N 200 E). By appointment.[6][12]
• Other: Utah Tech University may assist students; libraries/clerks via locator.[9]

Use the State Department's facility locator for hours/fees.[9] No passport agencies nearby—closest in Salt Lake City for life-or-death emergencies.[13]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Washington

In the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding regions, numerous passport acceptance facilities provide essential services for submitting new or renewal passport applications. These facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review and forward applications to the National Passport Processing Center. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. They do not issue passports on-site; instead, they verify your eligibility, ensure forms are complete, administer the oath of allegiance, and collect fees before mailing materials for processing.

When visiting an acceptance facility, expect a structured process. Arrive with a completed DS-11 (for first-time applicants) or DS-82 (for renewals) form, a valid photo meeting State Department specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), photo ID, and payment—typically a combination of checks or money orders for application and execution fees. Staff will review documents for completeness, witness your signature, and seal the application. Some locations offer limited expedited services or photo-taking options, but availability varies. Processing times generally range from 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited, though this depends on national demand.

Facilities are widespread across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia suburbs, making them accessible for residents and visitors alike. Use the State Department's online locator tool to find options by ZIP code, filtering for those offering appointments or walk-ins.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often experience higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months, spring breaks, and holidays when international trips surge. Mondays and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) tend to be particularly crowded due to weekend backlog and lunch-hour rushes. Weekends and early mornings or late afternoons may offer quieter visits.

To plan effectively, book appointments in advance where available, as walk-ins can face long waits. Check facility websites or call ahead for current policies. Prepare all documents meticulously to avoid return trips, and consider applying well before travel dates—ideally 3-6 months. Off-peak times like Tuesdays through Thursdays or early weekday mornings can minimize delays. Flexibility and patience are key in high-demand areas like the nation's capital.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Book Appointment: Call or online 4-6 weeks ahead, especially summer/winter peaks.[9]
2. Arrive Early: Bring all checklist items.
3. Present Documents: Agent reviews; sign DS-11 on-site.
4. Pay Fees: Separate checks (application to State Dept, execution to facility).[1]
5. Surrender Old Passport (if renewing/new).
6. Track Online: Get tracking number; check status.[14]

For mail renewals (DS-82 eligible): Send to address on form instructions.[3]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 4-6 weeks (in-person).[1] Avoid relying on last-minute during peaks—delays reported up to 12+ weeks.[15]

• Expedited Service (+$60, 2-3 weeks): Select at application; faster mail return.[1] Not for <14-day urgent.
• Urgent Travel (<14 days): Life-or-death only qualifies for agency appointment (not routine expedited).[13] Call 1-877-487-2778.[16]
• 1-2 Day Delivery (+$21.36): For return only.[1]

Students/exchange participants: Apply 3+ months early. Track via email updates.[14]

Tips for Common Challenges in Washington, UT

High seasonal travel (Zion tourists extending to intl flights) strains facilities—book St. George Clerk early.[10] Confusion: Expedited ≠ urgent <14 days; urgent needs embassy proof.[13]

• Peak Seasons: Spring/summer (vacations), winter breaks—double wait times.
• Minors: 50% rejections from missing DS-3053; both parents or notarization essential.[7]
• Renewals: Wrong form if >15 years old—use DS-11.[1]
• Business/Urgent: Pre-apply during off-peak; consider passport cards for land/sea to Mexico/Canada.[17]

Download forms/fees from official sites only.[3]

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Utah families with exchange students or youth trips: Both parents must attend or provide DS-3053 (notarized within 90 days).[1] No exceptions. Vital records delays common—order birth certificates early.[4]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a passport in Washington County during summer?
Expect 6-8 weeks routine, longer peaks. Book appointments 1-2 months ahead; no guarantees.[1][15]

Can I renew my passport by mail if I live in Washington, UT?
Yes, if eligible (issued <15 years ago, age 16+ at issuance). Use DS-82; mail to National Passport Processing Center.[3]

What if my child needs a passport urgently for a school trip?
Routine/expedited only; no <14-day unless life-or-death. Apply now—rejections common without full parental docs.[13]

Where can I get passport photos accepted locally?
USPS, Walgreens, or CVS in Washington/St. George. Verify dimensions to avoid rejection.[5][8]

Do I need an appointment at the Washington County Clerk?
Yes, call (435) 634-5709 or check online; walk-ins rare during high demand.[10]

What if my passport is lost while traveling internationally from Utah?
Report via DS-64 online; apply for new at U.S. embassy abroad. Emergency passport possible.[18]

Can students at Utah Tech University get help with passports?
Check campus international office; they guide to local facilities but don't issue.[19]

Is a passport card enough for my Mexico business trip?
Yes, for land/sea; book requires full passport.[17]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Passport Application Wizard
[3]Passport Forms
[4]Utah Vital Records
[5]Passport Photo Requirements
[6]USPS Passports
[7]Form DS-3053
[8]USPS Location Finder
[9]Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[10]Washington County Clerk/Auditor
[11]Washington City
[12]St. George Post Office
[13]Passport Agencies
[14]Check Application Status
[15]Current Processing Times
[16]National Passport Information Center
[17]Passport Card
[18]Lost/Stolen Passports
[19]Utah Tech University International