Normandy Park, WA Passport Guide: Apply, Renew, Facilities

Getting a Passport in Normandy Park, WA

Normandy Park residents often need passports for frequent international business trips to Asia and Europe, family vacations via SeaTac Airport, or seasonal getaways like summer cruises to Alaska or winter ski trips abroad. Students from nearby high schools and universities participate in exchange programs to Europe and Latin America, while urgent scenarios—such as last-minute family emergencies—add pressure. Washington's travel volume spikes in spring (cherry blossoms in Japan), summer (Europe tours), and winter breaks (holiday visits overseas), straining local facilities. High demand at King County acceptance locations can limit appointments, so plan ahead. Common pitfalls include photo rejections from glare or shadows (prevalent in home setups), using the wrong form for renewals, or incomplete minor applications missing both parents' consent. This guide outlines the process using official requirements, with no guarantees on processing times, which vary by season [1].

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing the right service prevents delays and extra trips. Eligibility depends on your situation—first-time applicants, renewals, or replacements have different forms and processes.

First-Time Passport

Normandy Park, WA residents use Form DS-11 for your first U.S. passport, if your previous passport was issued before age 16, or more than 15 years ago. You must apply in person at a local passport acceptance facility—do not mail it or use DS-82 (that's for renewals only, a top common mistake).

Key Steps & Required Items (Bring Originals + Photocopies)

1. Complete DS-11: Fill out online at travel.state.gov but do not sign until instructed in person.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (or certified copy), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport. Common mistake: Using hospital birth records (not valid—must be state-issued).
3. Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID matching your form name. Common mistake: Expired ID or mismatch in name/spelling.
4. Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo taken within 6 months (white background, no glasses/selfies). Common mistake: Wrong size, smiling, or casual attire—use CVS/Walgreens or facilities offering on-site photos.
5. Fees: ~$130+ application fee (checkbook/money order; no credit cards at most facilities) + ~$35 execution fee. Pay separately.

Processing & Decision Guidance

• Standard: 6-8 weeks (postmark to delivery)—best if travel is 3+ months away.
• Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60 fee)—choose if traveling in 6 weeks or less; add overnight return ($21.36) for faster delivery.
• Urgent? 1-2 week "life-or-death" emergency service at a passport agency (Seattle-area option if qualified; call 1-877-487-2778 to confirm eligibility). Track status online after 7-10 days. Decision tip: Calculate from application date to travel—add buffer for mail delays in WA's variable weather/shipping. Apply early to avoid stress/rush fees. [2]

Adult Renewal (DS-82)

You're eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're at least 16 years old, and your passport is undamaged and not reported lost or stolen. This is the simplest option for most Washington residents—no in-person visit required unless you need extra pages, it's a child passport, or you're changing name/gender marker.

Key Steps for Mail Renewal:

1. Download and complete Form DS-82 (print single-sided).
2. Include your current passport, one recent 2x2" color photo (taken within 6 months, white background, no glasses/selfies—many WA pharmacies like Bartell Drugs offer this for ~$15).
3. Pay fees by check or money order (personal checks accepted; see State Dept. site for current amounts—e.g., ~$130 application + $30 execution if needed elsewhere).
4. Mail everything flat in a large envelope to the address on the form (use certified mail with tracking for security, available at any USPS location).

Online Renewal (via State Dept. Portal): Available for many eligible adults—faster and paperless. Go to travel.state.gov, check your eligibility quiz first [3]. Upload photo digitally; pay by card. Ideal if your passport expires in 1+ year and no urgent travel. Not for adding pages or if name/gender changed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using an old/expired photo or home printer photo (must meet strict specs or get rejected).
• Signing the form before instructions say to (wait until mailing).
• Sending cash, credit cards, or out-of-state checks (stick to check/money order from a WA bank).
• Mailing in a small envelope (use Priority Mail flat-rate for ~$10 to ensure it arrives undamaged).

Decision Guidance:

• Choose mail/online if 6-8 weeks is fine (standard processing; add 2 weeks for WA mail delivery).
• Expedite (+$60, 2-3 weeks) or go in-person at a passport acceptance facility if traveling soon (book appointments early via travel.state.gov).
• Urgent? Life-or-death emergencies qualify for same-day at a passport agency (call 1-877-487-2778 to confirm). Avoid if your passport expires <9 months out for international trips—many countries require 6 months validity. Always check travel.state.gov for updates.

Child Passport or Renewal (Under 16)

Always requires in-person application with both parents/guardians present (or notarized consent). Use DS-11; valid only 5 years. High rejection rates here due to missing parental IDs or photos [2].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

Report it first via Form DS-64 (online or mail). Then submit DS-11 (or DS-82 if eligible renewal) with a $60 fee. For name changes or errors within a year, use DS-5504 by mail—no fee if correcting a government error [4].

Urgent Travel (Within 14 Days)

Distinguish this from expedited service: Expedited speeds up routine apps (extra $60), but life-or-death emergencies or travel in 14 days or less qualify for urgent at a passport agency. Nearest is Seattle Passport Agency (by appointment only, 206-553-5730). Provide itinerary proof; not guaranteed during peaks [1].

If unsure, download forms from travel.state.gov and review the "Before You Go" checklist [2].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Normandy Park

Normandy Park lacks its own facility, so head to nearby King County spots. Book appointments online ASAP—slots fill fast near SeaTac due to airport traffic. Use the official locator for real-time availability [5].

• Burien Post Office (302 SW 160th St, Burien, WA 98166): Full services, including execution fees. Call 206-242-4514 [6].
• Des Moines Post Office (21919 7th Ave S, Des Moines, WA 98198): Close for Normandy Park (about 5 miles); accepts DS-11 and photos on-site sometimes [6].
• Normandy Park City Hall (801 SW 218th St—no passport services; use for IDs only).
• King County Libraries: Check Des Moines Library or nearby branches via locator [5].
• Other: Federal Way or SeaTac POs for higher volume.

USPS locations handle most apps; private facilities like UPS Stores may too but charge extra. Confirm hours/fees (execution fee ~$35) [6].

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals—photocopies won't suffice. Washington birth certificates from the Department of Health are accepted; order online if needed ($25+ expedited) [7].

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (long form for minors), naturalization cert, or prior passport. Name must match ID exactly.
• Photo ID: Driver's license, military ID. Provide photocopy too.
• Application Form: DS-11 (in person, unsigned until sworn), DS-82 (mail/online).
• One Passport Photo: 2x2 inches, color, white background—no selfies [8].
• Fees: Book (28 pages) $130 adult/$100 child first-time; card $30/$15. Execution $35. Expedited $60 [2].
• Minors: Both parents' IDs, consent form if one absent.

Incomplete docs cause 30%+ rejections locally [1].

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos fail 25% of apps due to glare (from glasses/flash), shadows (uneven lighting), or wrong size. Specs: Recent (6 months), 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no uniforms/hats (unless religious/medical proof). White/cream background only [8].

Local tips: Use CVS/Walgreens in Normandy Park ($15); they know rules. Home prints often rejected—glare from WA's rainy light is tricky. Check sample photos online [8].

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or Child Passport (DS-11)

Use this printable checklist for in-person apps:

1. Confirm Eligibility: First-time or ineligible for renewal? Yes → DS-11 [2].
2. Fill Form DS-11: Online at travel.state.gov (print single-sided); do NOT sign yet [2].
3. Gather Documents:
   • Original citizenship proof + photocopy.
   • Valid photo ID + photocopy.
   • Two identical photos.
4. Pay Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." Cash for execution fee.
5. Book Appointment: Via facility site (e.g., USPS) or walk-in if allowed [5][6].
6. Attend Appointment: Arrive 15 min early. Swear oath, sign in presence. Agent seals envelope.
7. Track Status: Online at passportstatus.state.gov after 5-7 days.
8. For Expedited: Request at app ($60 + overnight return $21.36). Urgent? Call agency [1].

Time: 20-45 min at facility.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Adult Renewal (DS-82)

Renewals are simpler—no appointment needed:

1. Check Eligibility: Issued <15 yrs ago, age 16+, undamaged? Online option? [3].
2. Fill DS-82: Online or PDF; sign [2].
3. Include:
   • Old passport (they'll cancel it).
   • New photo.
   • Fees: $130 book.
4. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155. Use USPS Priority ($21+ tracking) [2].
5. Expedited: Include $60 fee, overnight envelope [1].
6. Track: As above.

Online: MyTravelGov account; not for all [3].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard: 6-8 weeks (mail → processing → mail back). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Peaks (May-Aug, Dec) add 2-4 weeks—don't rely on last-minute [1]. Track weekly; 90% on time but delays hit WA hard due to SeaTac volume. Urgent agency service for <14 days only—no routine expedites qualify [1].

Special Notes for Minors and Urgent Travel

For kids: Both parents or DS-3053 notarized consent. Proof of relationship (birth cert). Summer exchange programs spike apps—book March [2].

Urgent: Proof of travel (e-ticket), life/death emergency docs. Seattle Agency requires appt; walk-ins rare [1].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Normandy Park

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These are not processing centers; they verify your identity, ensure forms are complete, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for final processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Normandy Park, you'll find such facilities in nearby communities, offering convenient options for residents and visitors alike.

To use these facilities, prepare in advance: complete the DS-11 form (for new passports) or DS-82 (for renewals), bring a valid photo ID, two passport photos meeting strict specifications, and payment (checks or money orders preferred; credit cards may not be accepted everywhere). Expect a brief interview where staff administer an oath and seal your application. Processing times vary—routine service takes 6-8 weeks, expedited 2-3 weeks—but agencies cannot issue passports on-site. Always confirm eligibility and requirements via the official U.S. State Department website, as services can change.

For those in the Normandy Park area, search the State Department's online locator tool using your ZIP code to identify nearby acceptance facilities. Surrounding areas like Burien, Des Moines, and SeaTac often host multiple options, making it easy to find a spot without long drives. Some larger post offices or libraries may offer group appointments or walk-in services, but availability fluctuates.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays are often the busiest weekdays, as people catch up after weekends, while mid-day hours (10 AM to 2 PM) typically draw crowds from retirees and shift workers. To avoid long waits, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less hectic days like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Always check for appointment requirements in advance, as many now mandate online scheduling to manage flow. Arrive prepared with all documents to minimize delays, and consider off-peak seasons for smoother experiences. Patience is key—lines can form unexpectedly, so build extra time into your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far in advance should I apply in Normandy Park?
Plan 8-10 weeks ahead, especially spring/summer. High SeaTac demand fills Burien/Des Moines slots weeks out [1][5].

Can I use my WA Enhanced Driver's License instead of a passport?
No—for air travel to foreign countries, passport required. EDL works for land/sea to Canada/Mexico [9].

What if my birth certificate name doesn't match my ID?
Provide legal name change docs (marriage cert, court order). Order WA certs from DOH if lost [7].

Is passport card enough for international travel?
Card for land/sea only (Canada/Mexico/Caribbean/Bermuda). Book needed for air [2].

Can I renew online from Normandy Park?
Yes, if eligible (issued 2009+, sig readable, etc.). Create MyTravelGov account; pay by card [3].

What if my appointment is full—any walk-ins?
Some USPS allow; call ahead. Libraries rarer. Check locator daily [6][5].

How do I handle a lost passport abroad?
Contact U.S. Embassy; apply for limited-validity passport. Report via DS-64 on return [4].

Photos: Can I wear glasses?
Yes, if eyes visible, no glare. Submit doctor's note if medical headwear [8].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - U.S. Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply
[3]U.S. Department of State - Renew Online
[4]U.S. Department of State - Lost or Stolen Passport
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[6]USPS - Passport Services
[7]Washington State DOH - Birth Records
[8]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[9]DHS - REAL ID and Enhanced Driver's Licenses