Redmond WA Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals & Locations

Getting a Passport in Redmond, WA

Redmond, in King County, Washington, has high passport demand due to its tech workforce, frequent business travel to Asia and Europe, family vacations via nearby SeaTac Airport, university student exchanges, and urgent trips like family emergencies. Peak seasons (spring breaks, summer, holidays) fill appointments quickly, often weeks in advance—book early via the online system to avoid delays. Common mistakes include invalid photos (e.g., wrong size, glare from glasses, or smiling), incomplete forms causing rejections, and underestimating 6-8 week routine processing (longer in peaks). This guide uses U.S. Department of State guidelines to streamline your process: verify eligibility online first, prepare docs meticulously, and opt for expedited service ($60 extra) if traveling within 6 weeks.[1][2]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Start here to select the right form, location type, and timeline—wrong choices lead to rejections, extra visits, and delays. Use this decision guide:

• First-time passport or eligibility issues (e.g., name change, damaged book)? Use Form DS-11; must apply in person at an acceptance facility. Not eligible for mail.
• Adult renewal (passport issued when 16+, within 15 years, undamaged, same name)? Use Form DS-82; mail it if you meet criteria—faster and cheaper than in-person. Common mistake: Using DS-11 for routine renewals, forcing unnecessary trips.
• Child under 16? Use Form DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear (or provide consent form). Presence exceptions are narrow—plan family schedules ahead.
• Travel in 2-6 weeks? Routine + expedited service ($60 fee, 2-3 weeks processing). Track status online.
• Travel in 14 days (or 28 with overseas travel)? Expedited at a passport agency (appointment required; prove urgency with tickets/itinerary). Life-or-death emergency? Same, with death certificate.

Quick eligibility check: Visit travel.state.gov, enter details, and confirm form/service. Redmond's high volume means in-person slots vanish fast—apply off-peak (midweek mornings) if possible, and have backups like a trusted friend apply for minors. Always print forms single-sided, black ink, no corrections.

First-Time Passport

If this is your first U.S. passport or your previous one was issued when you were under age 16, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility near Redmond, WA—such as local post offices, public libraries, or county offices. Download and complete the form from travel.state.gov, but do not sign it until the acceptance agent instructs you during your appointment.[2]

Practical Steps for Redmond Area Applicants:

• Use the State Department's online locator tool (search "Redmond, WA") to find nearby facilities—King County has many options.
• Book an appointment in advance, as most local spots require them (check facility websites or call; walk-ins are rare post-COVID).
• Gather required items: unsigned DS-11, original proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate), valid photo ID (driver's license or military ID), photocopy of ID, one recent 2x2-inch passport photo (white background, no glasses/selfies), and fees (cashier's check or money order preferred; exact amounts at travel.state.gov).
• Submit during business hours; standard processing is 6-8 weeks (expedite for 2-3 weeks at extra cost—ideal if traveling soon).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 early (it invalidates the application; agents verify identity before signing).
• Bringing only photocopies of citizenship docs (originals required; certified copies OK if originals unavailable).
• Poor-quality photos (wrong size, busy background, or smiling—use CVS/Walgreens nearby or facility services).
• Forgetting fees or using personal checks (many facilities reject them).
• Assuming renewal eligibility—run the State Dept's online wizard first.

Decision Guidance:

• Use DS-11 only if first-time, prior passport pre-age 16, lost/stolen/damaged, or name change without docs. Otherwise, renew by mail with DS-82 (faster/cheaper if eligible: issued as adult within 15 years, undamaged).
• For families: Both parents/guardians needed for minors under 16; plan group appointments.
• Urgent? Add $60 expedite fee + overnight return; track status online after submission.

Renewal

You may renew by mail using Form DS-82 if:

• Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.
• You were at least age 16 when it was issued.
• It was a 10-year validity passport (not limited for minors).
• The passport is undamaged and in your possession.

If it doesn't meet these criteria, treat it as first-time or replacement.[3]

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Report Immediately (Protect Against Identity Theft): Start with free Form DS-64 online at travel.state.gov/passport (or download/mail). Do this within 24-48 hours of discovery—delaying reports common mistake that risks fraud and slows replacement. No fee or in-person visit needed for this step.

Decide Your Next Form (Key Eligibility Check):

• DS-82 (Mail Renewal, Easier/Faster for Eligible Adults): Use only if passport undamaged, issued when 16+, within last 15 years, and you meet all criteria (full list at travel.state.gov). Mail from US address. Decision tip: Quick self-check—if any "no," go to DS-11. Common mistake: Trying DS-82 for stolen/lost (not allowed) or minors (must use DS-11).
• DS-11 (New In-Person Application, Required for Most Cases): For lost/stolen, damaged, first-time, or ineligible for DS-82. In Redmond, WA area, routine processing (6-8 weeks) available at passport acceptance facilities like post offices or county sites—no appointment often needed, but call ahead. Expedite (2-3 weeks) or urgent (days) via mail-in or Seattle Passport Agency if travel imminent (life/death emergency only).

Practical Steps & Prep:

1. Gather: Proof of citizenship (original birth cert/naturalization), photo ID, 2x2 photos (many local pharmacies print), prior passport if available.
2. Fees: $130+ adult DS-11/$30 child; DS-82 cheaper. Pay by check/money order.
3. Track status online post-submission.

Quick Decision Flow:

• Lost/Stolen → DS-64 + DS-11.
• Damaged → DS-11.
• Eligible undamaged adult → DS-82. Pro Tip for Redmond: Local facilities handle 90% of routine needs—avoid agency rush unless urgent travel. Check travel.state.gov for full forms/fees.

Name Change, Correction, or Multiple Passports

For corrections (e.g., printing errors), submit Form DS-5504 within one year of issuance—no fee. Name changes require your current passport plus legal proof like a marriage certificate. Expedited multiple passports are available for frequent travelers.[5]

Washington residents often face confusion here: many tech professionals in Redmond mistakenly try to renew expired passports over 15 years old, leading to wasted time. Always check eligibility first.[1]

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals and photocopies (on standard 8.5x11" white paper). Common errors in King County include incomplete minor applications or missing evidence of U.S. citizenship.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (long-form preferred; short forms from WA DOH may suffice), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport. Order from Washington State Department of Health if needed—allow 2-4 weeks.[6]
• Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license (WA enhanced ID works), government ID, or military ID.
• Photocopies: Front/back of ID and citizenship proof.
• Forms:

  Situation	Form	Download
  First-time/New	DS-11	travel.state.gov/forms
  Adult Renewal (by mail)	DS-82	Same
  Lost/Stolen Report	DS-64	Same
  Correction (within 1 year)	DS-5504	Same

For minors under 16, both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053).[7]

Fees (as of 2023; verify current):

• Book (10-year adult): $130 application + $35 execution + optional $60 expedite.
• Card (travel to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean): $30 application + $35 execution. Pay application fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee separate to facility.[8]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-50% of rejections in high-volume areas like Redmond.[9] Specs:

• 2x2 inches, color, taken within 6 months.
• White/off-white background, neutral expression, eyes open.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary with side view), uniforms, hats, shadows, glare, or filters.
• Head must be 1-1.375 inches from chin to top.

Local options: Walmart, FedEx Office, or CVS in Redmond (e.g., 16311 Cleveland St). Many acceptance facilities offer on-site photos for $15-20, saving hassle. WA's variable lighting (rainy winters) often causes glare—use natural indoor light.[9]

Where to Apply in Redmond and King County

Redmond has limited but accessible facilities; book early via online tools as slots fill fast during summer and winter breaks.

• Redmond Main Post Office: 15950 Cleveland St, Redmond, WA 98052. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm (call 425-556-4531 to confirm). By appointment only.[10]
• Nearby: Bellevue Post Office (1103 Bellevue Square, Bellevue), Lake City Post Office (1027 NE 125th St, Seattle).
• King County options: Some district courts or clerks (e.g., Kent or Issaquah), but post offices handle most volume.

Use the official locator: Enter ZIP 98052 for real-time availability.[11] Avoid walk-ins—peak seasons see waits of weeks. For urgent travel (within 14 days), after booking, call the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778).[12]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Redmond

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to receive and review passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and other services. These facilities do not process passports themselves—that happens at a regional passport agency—but they verify your identity, administer oaths, and forward your application securely. Common types in and around Redmond include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and some municipal buildings. Not every location offers these services, so it's essential to confirm eligibility and requirements beforehand through official channels like the State Department's website.

When visiting, expect to bring a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), two passport photos meeting strict specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees (typically by check or money order). Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Staff will review documents for completeness, take your signature under oath, and collect fees—cash is rarely accepted. Walk-ins are common at many spots, but appointments are increasingly recommended to streamline the process. Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited, with options for faster handling at agencies for urgent travel.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and international trips. Mondays tend to be crowded as people start their week, and mid-day hours (around 11 AM to 2 PM) frequently peak due to lunch breaks and shift changes. To avoid long waits, plan visits early in the morning or later afternoon on weekdays, and steer clear of weekends if possible.

Always check for seasonal fluctuations or local events that could increase traffic. Booking an online appointment where available can save time, and arriving with all documents prepped prevents delays. Monitor official updates for any changes in availability, and consider applying well in advance of travel dates to account for unexpected backlogs. Patience and preparation make the experience smoother for everyone.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Standard Application

Follow this checklist to minimize errors:

1. Confirm eligibility: Use travel.state.gov wizard.[2]
2. Gather documents: Citizenship proof (original + copy), ID (original + copy), photo, form (unsigned for DS-11).
3. Fill forms: Print single-sided; DS-11 unsigned.
4. Book appointment: Via facility site or iafdb.travel.state.gov. Aim 6-8 weeks before travel.
5. Prepare payment: Two checks/money orders.
6. Attend appointment: Arrive 15 min early; all applicants for minors.
7. Track status: Online at passportstatus.state.gov after 7-10 days.
8. Receive passport: Mail (allow 6-8 weeks routine; no hard guarantees during peaks).

For mail renewals (DS-82): Send to address on form; use certified mail.

Expedited and Urgent Services

Routine processing: 6-8 weeks (do not count mailing).[13] Expedite for 2-3 weeks (+$60 at acceptance or agency).[8]

• Urgent (travel within 14 days): Limited life-or-death slots at Seattle Passport Agency (2500 6th Ave, Seattle—2-hour drive from Redmond). Requires confirmed flight itinerary, urgency proof. Call 1-877-487-2778 first—no walk-ins.[12]
• Warning: Peak seasons (spring/summer, Dec-Jan) overwhelm even expedited services. Redmond's business travelers often underestimate this—plan 3+ months ahead.

Private expeditors exist but add fees; use only if verified.[14]

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

In student-heavy King County, exchange programs spike minor apps. Requirements:

• Both parents/guardians appear with child, or one with Form DS-3053 (notarized) from absent parent.
• Parental awareness form if sole custody.
• Child's photo (no parent touching).

Delays common from missing consents—double-check.[7]

Common Challenges and Tips

• High Demand: Redmond PO books out 2-4 weeks; use nearby Bellevue.
• Expedited vs. Urgent Confusion: Expedite shortens processing; urgent is agency-only for <14 days.
• Photo Rejections: Shadows from WA's overcast skies—retake professionally.
• Documentation Gaps: WA birth certs must show parents' names; order certified copies.[6]
• Renewal Mistakes: Over-15-year passports need DS-11 in-person.

Track everything; reapply if needed (extra fees).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Redmond?
No, standard facilities don't offer same-day. Urgent requires Seattle agency with proof.[12]

How long does renewal by mail take from Redmond?
6-8 weeks routine, 2-3 expedited. Mailing adds 1-2 weeks each way—use Priority Express.[13]

What if my child is on a school exchange program needing urgent travel?
Follow minor rules + itinerary. Book expedite; call NPIC for guidance.[7][12]

Is my WA REAL ID enough for identity proof?
Yes, as it's a valid driver's license.[2]

Can I use a passport card for international flights?
No, cards only for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean. Get book for flights.[15]

What if appointments are full during summer peak?
Check daily; try nearby ZIPs or Friday evenings. Avoid relying on last-minute.[11]

Do I need to bring my Social Security number?
Provide it on form (last 4 digits suffice if card unavailable).[16]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]How to Apply for a Passport
[3]Renew an Adult Passport
[4]Lost or Stolen Passport
[5]Corrections, Name Changes
[6]Washington State Birth Certificates
[7]Passports for Children Under 16
[8]Passport Fees
[9]Passport Photo Requirements
[10]USPS Passport Services
[11]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[12]Passport Agencies
[13]Processing Times
[14]Private Passport Couriers
[15]Passport Card
[16]Social Security Number Requirement