How to Get a Passport in Marysville, WA: Full Guide

By GovComplete Team Published on:

Location: Marysville, WA
How to Get a Passport in Marysville, WA: Full Guide

Getting a Passport in Marysville, WA

Marysville, located in Snohomish County, Washington, sits just north of Seattle, making it a hub for residents who frequently travel internationally for business—often to Asia-Pacific destinations due to the region's tech and aerospace industries—and tourism hotspots like Europe or Mexico. Seasonal spikes occur in spring and summer for vacations, winter breaks for ski trips abroad, and among students participating in exchange programs at nearby universities like the University of Washington. Urgent scenarios, such as last-minute business trips or family emergencies, are common but can complicate applications due to high demand. Local acceptance facilities often face appointment backlogs, especially during peak seasons, so planning ahead is essential.[1]

This guide provides a straightforward path to obtaining, renewing, or replacing a U.S. passport from Marysville. It draws directly from U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you avoid pitfalls like photo rejections from shadows or glare, incomplete forms for minors, or confusion over renewal eligibility. Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can update.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right service prevents wasted trips to acceptance facilities. Here's how to decide:

First-Time Applicants

If you've never had a U.S. passport, need one for a child under 16, or your previous passport was issued before age 16, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 (download it from travel.state.gov but do not sign it until instructed during your appointment). This is the process for most Marysville adults embarking on their first passport or parents applying for young travelers, such as school group trips to Canada or family vacations abroad.[1][2]

Practical steps to prepare:

  • Gather originals: Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate—photocopies not accepted), valid photo ID (e.g., driver's license), and one 2x2-inch color passport photo taken within 6 months (many pharmacies offer this service).
  • Pay fees: Checkbook or card for application fee (payable to U.S. Department of State); execution fee separate (cash, check, or card).
  • Both parents/guardians typically required for minors, or a notarized consent form if one is absent.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using DS-82 renewal form instead (only for adult passports issued after age 16 and within the last 15 years).
  • Bringing expired or non-U.S. IDs, uncertified birth certificate copies, or selfies/low-quality photos (must meet strict specs: white background, neutral expression, no glasses).
  • Signing DS-11 early or forgetting to schedule ahead—processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks at extra cost).

Decision guidance: Confirm your eligibility first—if your passport is still valid or expired less than 5 years and was issued after age 16, renew by mail with DS-82 for faster/easier processing. Use the State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov to verify. For Marysville families, first-timers often plan around summer travel peaks, so apply 3+ months early.

Renewals

You can renew your U.S. passport by mail if all these apply:

  • Your most recent passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.
  • It was issued within the last 15 years.
  • It's undamaged and in your possession (not reported lost or stolen).

Quick eligibility check: Gather your old passport and confirm the issue date and your age at issuance. Common mistake: Assuming a passport issued at age 15 qualifies—double-check, as it doesn't. If unsure, review official State Department criteria online before proceeding.

Steps for Marysville, WA residents (DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit required):

  1. Download and complete Form DS-82 (available on travel.state.gov).
  2. Include your most recent passport, a new passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within 6 months—avoid selfies or expired photo services), payment (check/money order; see fees on the site), and your current name change docs if applicable.
  3. Mail everything to the address listed on the DS-82 instructions (use certified mail for tracking—key for peace of mind in rainy WA weather).

Many Snohomish County business travelers and families renew this way to avoid long drives and lines at distant agencies. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee). Decision guide: Eligible? Go mail—saves time/gas. Not eligible (e.g., first-time applicant, under 16 at issuance, damaged book)? Apply in person as a "new" passport using Form DS-11. Track status online after 1 week.[1][2]

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen anywhere in the Marysville, WA area, report it immediately online at travel.state.gov/passport to invalidate it and prevent identity theft or misuse—delaying this is a common mistake that can lead to fraud issues. Follow up by applying in person (not by mail) with Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport, available as a fillable PDF online) and a new Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport—print and complete but do not sign until instructed).

For damaged passports: Replace if damage goes beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., water stains, tears, holes, chemical damage, or alterations). Everyday wear like creases, faded signatures, or minor ink smudges often doesn't qualify—decision tip: Hold it up to light; if pages are intact and readable, it may be usable unless travel is imminent. Always err on replacing for international trips.

Practical steps for Marysville-area residents:

  1. Report online (takes 5-10 minutes; do this first, even before police).
  2. For stolen passports, file a local police report immediately (required for some applications; skipping this delays processing).
  3. Gather: Proof of citizenship (original birth certificate, naturalization cert), valid photo ID (driver's license), two identical 2x2" color passport photos (get at pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS—avoid selfies or home prints, a top mistake), fees ($130+ for adults, check usps.com for current), and old passport if available.
  4. Schedule an appointment at a passport acceptance facility via travel.state.gov (search by ZIP code 98270/98271; aim for weekdays to avoid lines).
  5. Pay and submit—get a receipt tracking number for status checks.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using mail-in renewal (DS-82) for lost/stolen/damaged—these require in-person DS-11.
  • Forgetting photos or originals (no photocopies for citizenship proof).
  • Underestimating timelines: Routine service is 6-8 weeks; if travel within 2-3 weeks, request expedited ($60 extra, 2-3 weeks) or urgent service ($21.36/day at agencies).

Decision guidance: Replace ASAP if you're a frequent flyer using nearby regional airports—travel disruptions compound with Washington's variable weather and peak seasons. No travel plans? Wait unless damage worsens. Track at passportstatus.state.gov.[1]

Other Scenarios

  • Name or personal details change: Use DS-5504 within one year of passport issuance (no fee); otherwise, DS-11 or DS-82.
  • Minors (under 16): Always DS-11 in person; both parents/guardians typically required.
  • Expedited for urgent travel: Additional options if departing within 14 days.[1]

Use the State Department's online wizard to confirm: answer a few questions for your exact form.[3]

Gather Required Documents

Incomplete paperwork causes most rejections at Marysville facilities. Start early—order vital records now, as Washington processing takes 1-2 weeks.[4]

Checklist for First-Time Adult Applicants (DS-11)

  • Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until in person).[2]
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (from WA DOH or county), naturalization certificate, or prior U.S. passport.[1][4]
  • Valid photo ID: Driver's license, military ID (photocopy both sides).[1]
  • Passport photo (2x2 inches).[5]
  • Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (check/money order); optional expedited.[6]
  • Name change evidence if applicable (marriage certificate from Snohomish County Auditor).[7]

Checklist for Child Applicants Under 16 (DS-11)

  • Parents'/guardians' IDs and citizenship proofs.
  • Parental consent: Both parents or Form DS-3053 from absent parent.[1]
  • Child's birth certificate.
  • Same photo and fee rules ($100 application + $35).[6]

Checklist for Renewals (DS-82, by Mail)

  • Old passport.
  • New photo.
  • Fees: $130 (check).[6]
  • Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[1]

Photocopy everything; facilities keep originals temporarily.[1]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application Packet

  1. Identify your service and download/print the correct form from travel.state.gov.[2]
  2. Gather citizenship proof—request from WA DOH if needed (allow 10-15 business days).[4]
  3. Get photos from CVS/Walgreens or online (avoid selfies).[5]
  4. Complete form but do not sign DS-11.
  5. Calculate fees; separate checks for application/execution.
  6. Make copies of ID/citizenship docs (8.5x11, front/back same page).
  7. Schedule facility appointment.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections in high-volume areas like Snohomish County.[5] Specs:

  • 2x2 inches, color, on white/cream background.
  • Head 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.
  • Neutral expression, eyes open, full face view.
  • No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats, uniforms, shadows, glare, or filters.[5]

Local Tips: Marysville Walgreens (e.g., 1083 State Ave) or USPS offer compliant photos for $15-17. Selfies fail due to dimensions/shadows—use State photo tool to validate.[5][8] Washington applicants often err with glare from indoor lighting during rainy seasons.

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Marysville and Nearby

Marysville has limited spots; book via the State locator.[9] High demand means appointments fill weeks ahead in summer/winter peaks.

  • Marysville Post Office: 3605 88th St NE, Marysville, WA 98270. Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (call 360-659-8121 for passport hours).[10]
  • Lake Stevens Post Office (nearby): 1314 122nd Dr SE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258.[10]
  • Everett Main Post Office (10 miles south): Full service, higher volume.[10]

USPS handles ~70% of applications; no county clerk in Snohomish for passports (they do vital records).[7] Search iafdb.travel.state.gov for real-time slots.[9]

Step-by-Step Application Process

Full Checklist for In-Person Applications (DS-11)

  1. Book appointment: Use USPS.com or iafdb.travel.state.gov.[9][11]
  2. Arrive prepared: Bring packet, arrive 15 mins early. Facilities like Marysville PO limit walk-ins.
  3. Submit at counter: Sign DS-11 in front of agent; pay execution fee (cash/check).
  4. Get receipt: Track status at passportstatus.state.gov (7-10 days post-submission).[12]
  5. Monitor mail: Routine 6-8 weeks; expedited 2-3 weeks (extra $60).[1]
  6. Pick up if required: Some facilities hold new passports.

For mail renewals: Postmark early; use USPS tracking.[1]

Processing Times and Expedited Services

Routine: 6-8 weeks (does not include mailing).[1] Expedited ($60 extra): 2-3 weeks. Peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) add delays—do not rely on last-minute processing in Washington, where travel surges strain national centers.[1]

Urgent Travel (Within 14 Days):

  • Life-or-death emergencies: Appointment at Seattle Passport Agency (50 miles south, by appt only).[13]
  • No appointment needed if <14 days: Call 1-877-487-2778.[1] Warns: Facilities reject incomplete apps; agencies prioritize verified urgencies. Business travelers: Use passport card for land/sea to Mexico/Canada as interim.[1]

Common Challenges and Tips for Marysville Residents

  • High Demand: Snohomish facilities book 4-6 weeks out in summer; check daily for cancellations.[9]
  • Expedited Confusion: Expedited ≠ urgent; within-14-days requires agency proof (itinerary).[1]
  • Photo Issues: Shadows from WA's variable light; use pro services.[5]
  • Minors' Docs: Frequent for exchange students—get parental consent notarized early.[1]
  • Renewal Mistakes: Using DS-11 when DS-82 eligible wastes $35 fee.[1]
  • Vital Records Delays: Order birth certs from WA DOH ($25 + shipping); Snohomish for marriages.[4][7]

Tip: Apply 3-6 months before travel, per State advice.[1]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Marysville

Obtaining a passport begins with visiting a passport acceptance facility, which serves as an authorized location where applications are reviewed, oaths are administered, and documents are submitted for processing by the U.S. Department of State. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, they forward approved applications to a regional passport agency for printing and mailing, a process that typically takes several weeks. In and around Marysville, such facilities are commonly found at everyday public spots like post offices, public libraries, and county clerk offices. Surrounding communities may offer additional options, providing convenient access for residents without long travel.

To locate these, use the official U.S. Department of State website's passport acceptance facility locator tool by entering your ZIP code or city. Expect a straightforward in-person visit where a designated agent verifies your identity, ensures forms are complete (such as DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals), checks supporting documents like proof of citizenship and photos, and collects fees payable by check or money order. Bring two passport photos meeting State Department specifications, valid photo ID, and any name change evidence if applicable. Walk-ins are standard, though some locations offer appointments to streamline service—check ahead via the locator. The experience is generally efficient for prepared visitors, lasting 15-30 minutes barring crowds.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and international trips. Mondays often start busy as people catch up from the weekend, and mid-day slots (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can fill quickly due to lunch-hour visits. To plan effectively, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding seasonal peaks if possible. Confirm any appointment options through official channels, arrive with all documents organized, and consider applying well in advance of travel dates to account for processing delays. Patience and preparation go a long way in navigating generalized busier periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Marysville?
No local facilities offer same-day; nearest agency is Seattle (appointment only for urgencies). Routine/expedited via mail.[1][13]

What's the difference between a passport book and card?
Book valid worldwide (air); card for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean (cheaper, faster).[1]

Do I need an appointment at Marysville Post Office?
Yes for passports; call or use online scheduler. Walk-ins rare.[10][11]

How do I track my application?
Enter receipt number at passportstatus.state.gov after 7-10 days.[12]

What if my child is traveling without both parents?
Need DS-3053 notarized consent or court order.[1]

Can I renew online?
Limited beta for eligible renewals; check travel.state.gov.[14]

Is my WA enhanced driver's license enough for international travel?
No—valid only for Canada land/sea; passport required for air/flights.[15]

How much for a minor's passport?
$100 application + $35 execution (under 16); no expedited fee for kids.[6]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - U.S. Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[3]U.S. Department of State - Passport Application Wizard
[4]Washington State DOH - Order Birth Certificate
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[7]Snohomish County Auditor - Marriage Records
[8]USPS Locations - Marysville
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[10]USPS - Passport Services
[11]USPS - Schedule Passport Appointment
[12]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[13]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[14]U.S. Department of State - Online Renewal
[15]Washington State DOL - Enhanced Driver License

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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