University Place WA Passport Guide: Facilities, Steps & Tips

Getting a Passport in University Place, WA

University Place, a suburb in Pierce County, Washington, sits near Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, making it a hub for residents with diverse travel needs. Many locals engage in frequent international business trips to Asia and Europe, family tourism to Mexico or Canada, and seasonal getaways during spring break, summer vacations, or winter holidays. University students from nearby Pacific Lutheran University or exchange programs often require passports for study abroad, while military families face urgent last-minute deployments. However, high demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays. This guide helps you navigate the process efficiently, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to avoid common pitfalls like photo rejections or form errors.[1]

Choosing the Right Passport Service

Before starting, determine your specific need to use the correct form and process. Mischoosing can delay your application.

• First-Time Passport: If you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16, apply in person using Form DS-11. You cannot mail this.[1]
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're over 16, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 and mail it (or apply in person if needed).[1]
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Report it via Form DS-64 (free report), then apply using DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (if eligible for renewal).[1]
• Name Change or Correction: Use DS-5504 if within one year of issuance; otherwise, treat as new or replacement.[1]
• Child (Under 16) Passport: Always in person with DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear or provide consent.[1]

For urgent travel within 14 days, note that "expedited" service (extra fee, 2-3 weeks) differs from "urgent" life-or-death emergencies (possible same-day at a regional agency). Routine service takes 6-8 weeks; do not rely on last-minute processing during peaks.[2]

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near University Place

University Place lacks a dedicated passport agency (those are for urgent cases only, like in Seattle).[3] Use designated acceptance facilities for in-person applications (DS-11). Book appointments early via the U.S. Department of State's locator tool, as slots fill quickly in Pierce County due to seasonal travel surges.[4]

Key local options:

• University Place Post Office (2702 Bridgeport Way W, University Place, WA 98466): Offers passport services; call (253) 460-3773 to confirm hours/appointments.[5]
• Lakewood Post Office (6817 Pacific Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98499, ~5 miles away): Busy but reliable; appointments recommended.[5]
• Tacoma Main Post Office (1414 Fawcett Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, ~7 miles): Handles high volume; check for photos on-site.[5]
• Pierce County Auditor's Office (2401 S 35th St, Tacoma, WA 98409): Sometimes offers services; verify via phone (253) 798-7455.[6]

Search exact availability at iafdb.travel.state.gov.[4] Private expediting services exist but add fees and are not affiliated with the government—use cautiously.[1]

Required Documents and Forms

Gather everything before your appointment to avoid rescheduling. Incomplete applications, especially for minors, are a top rejection reason.

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

• U.S. birth certificate (issued by city/county/vital records; hospital certificates invalid).[7]
• Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
• For Washington births: Order from WA Department of Health or Pierce County Auditor.[7][8]

Proof of Identity (original + photocopy):

• Valid driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID.
• If no ID, secondary evidence like school records.

Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo (details below).

Fees (as of 2023; check for updates):[1]

• First-time/book under 16: $100/$135 application + $35 execution.
• Adult renewal: $130 application.
• Expedited: +$60.
• 1-2 day delivery: +$21.36.

Pay application fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee to facility.

For minors: Both parents' IDs, consent form DS-3053 if one absent.[1]

Download forms from travel.state.gov (print single-sided, black ink).[1]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections in busy areas like Pierce County.[2] Specs are strict:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Color, white/cream/off-white background.
• Full face, neutral expression, eyes open.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats, uniforms; even subtle shadows/glare fail.[9]

Local options: USPS locations often provide ($15-20); Walgreens/CVS in University Place (e.g., 2602 Bridgeport Way W). Use the State Department's photo tool to validate.[9] Take fresh photos—old ones risk rejection.

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

Follow this sequentially to minimize errors:

1. Complete Form DS-11 (do not sign until instructed at facility).[1]
2. Gather citizenship proof (original + front/back photocopy on standard paper).[7]
3. Gather photo ID proof (original + photocopy).[1]
4. Get one compliant photo (practice with online validator).[9]
5. Calculate/pay fees (two separate payments).[1]
6. For children: Ensure both parents/guardians present with IDs; or notarized DS-3053 + ID copy from absent parent.[1]
7. Book appointment at facility (e.g., University Place Post Office).[4]
8. Arrive 15 minutes early with all docs; sign form on-site.
9. Track status online after 5-7 days using application locator.[2]

Renewal (DS-82) Checklist:

1. Confirm eligibility (passport <15 years old, you >16).[1]
2. Complete/sign DS-82.
3. Include old passport.
4. Attach photo, fees (check to State Dept).
5. Mail to address on form (certified mail recommended).[1]
   • Note: No appointment needed; processing same as routine.

Replacement Checklist:

1. Report lost/stolen via DS-64 (online/mail).[1]
2. Follow first-time steps if not renewal-eligible.

For urgent travel: Upgrade to expedited at acceptance facility or mail; Seattle Passport Agency for 14-day emergencies (appointment only).[3]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks door-to-door (mail time included); peaks extend to 10+ weeks.[2] Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60); no guarantees—avoid planning last-minute trips around university breaks or holidays.

Life-or-death urgent (within 14 days, relative abroad): Seattle agency possible.[3] Track at passportstatus.state.gov.[2] High seasonal demand in Washington (spring/summer flights to Europe/Asia, winter to Mexico) strains resources—apply 9+ weeks early.[1]

Special Considerations for University Place Residents

Students/exchange participants: Campus international offices (e.g., PLU) offer guidance but not acceptance—use post offices.[10] Military: On-base facilities at JBLM may help; check ID cards as photo ID.[1]

Minors: Pierce County parents often forget parental consent; both must appear to prevent delays.[1]

Name changes post-WA marriage: Update via vital records first.[8]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around University Place

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review, witness, and submit passport applications for processing. These locations do not issue passports on-site; instead, they forward approved applications to a regional passport agency for printing and mailing, which can take several weeks. Common types in and around University Place include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings within Pierce County and nearby areas like Tacoma and Lakewood. Availability can vary, so it's essential to verify details through the official State Department website or by contacting facilities directly before visiting.

When visiting an acceptance facility, expect a straightforward but thorough process. Arrive with a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants or renewals not eligible for mail-in), two identical passport photos meeting strict specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—typically via check or money order. Staff will review documents for completeness, administer an oath, and collect fees. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant if everything is in order, but delays can occur due to queues or issues with paperwork. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present, adding extra verification steps.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring break, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays tend to be especially crowded as people catch up after the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently peak due to lunch-hour visits. To minimize wait times, consider weekdays early in the morning or late afternoon, and avoid seasonal rushes altogether by applying well in advance—ideally 3-6 months before travel. Many facilities offer appointments, which can significantly reduce lines; check online for availability. Always bring extras of all documents and photos, as errors lead to rescheduling. If urgent, explore expedited options through passport agencies, but standard facilities remain the starting point for most applicants. Planning ahead ensures a smoother experience in this busy region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in University Place?
No local agencies offer walk-in same-day; nearest is Seattle for qualifying urgencies only.[3]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60 fee) aims for 2-3 weeks; urgent (life-or-death within 14 days) requires agency appointment—no routine same-day.[2]

My photo was rejected—why?
Common issues: shadows from overhead lights, glare on glasses, wrong size, or non-neutral background. Retake with State guidelines.[9]

How do I renew if my passport is expiring soon for a summer trip?
Use DS-82 if eligible; mail now as routine takes 6-8 weeks. Expedite if under 5 weeks out, but peaks delay.[1]

Do I need an appointment at USPS in University Place?
Yes, most require it; call or check online locator to avoid wait times.[4][5]

What if my birth certificate is from Pierce County?
Order certified copy from Auditor or WA DOH; abstracts won't work.[6][7]

Can I use my old passport as ID for a new one?
Yes, for first-time if valid/unexpired.[1]

How long is a child's passport valid?
5 years; renew early for exchange programs.[1]

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Passport Processing Times
[3]Passport Agencies
[4]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[5]USPS Passport Services
[6]Pierce County Auditor
[7]Washington State Birth/Death Certificates
[8]Vital Records
[9]Passport Photo Requirements
[10]Pacific Lutheran University International Center