Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for obtaining a passport?
The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information in obtaining a passport.
How do I complete a passport application?
You can complete one online and print it or print it and complete by hand. Find out how here.
What method of payment is required?
Two forms of payment are required:
1. Payment of $35 (Passport Acceptance Fee) and $15 photo fee (if you do not already have photos) to the Clerk of the Circuit Court can be made by cash, check, money order, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover - 3.5% service fee charged.
2. Payment to the U.S. Department of State must be made by check or money order only.
What do I need to know about passport photos?
You can find more details on the exact requirements for passport photos on the U.S. Department of State website.
Passport Photo Taking Services in Hillsborough County: You can now save time by having your passport photo taken at any of our locations when you present your application or you can bring your own passport photos with you to the appointment.
Other options for obtaining Passport Photos:
- Certain Walgreens, CVS and FedEx locations that have photo departments.
- AAA offices
- The UPS Store
- Some U.S. Post Office locations
- Many professional photography studios provide passport photo services
NOTE: Always call ahead to these passport photo providers to see if the location you want to visit offers this service, if a technician will be on duty at the time you want to have your picture taken, and if an appointment is required.
We process your application based on when you are traveling internationally and what service you select. Expand the images below for more information about getting your passport fast.
- EmergencyClick the image for more info
Choose this service if you have a life-or-death emergency that requires international travel within 72 hours (3 business days).
See our Life-or-Death Emergencies page for more information on how to make an appointment.
- Urgent TravelClick the image for more info
Choose this service if you have urgent international travel plans within 14 calendar days for reasons other than a life-or-death emergency. Restrictions apply. Call 1-877-487-2778 to make an appointment.
- ExpeditedCurrent expedited processing times
Choose this service if you are traveling in 3 to 5 weeks from today.
Expedite at an acceptance facility or expedite a renewal by mail.
- RoutineCurrent routine processing times
Choose this service if you are traveling more than 6 to 9 weeks from today.
Apply at an acceptance facility or renew by mail.
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Current expedited processing times
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Current routine processing times
Información en Español
Applying at an Acceptance Facility or an Agency and Center
Special Passport Fairs
Find a Special Passport Fair near you!
We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.
Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!
Make An Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center
We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service. You cannot walk-in. We do not charge a fee to make an appointment.
You can only make an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. Se habla español. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY teletype services.