Planning for international travel often involves a flurry of preparations, and getting your passport in order is paramount. Among the initial steps, securing compliant passport photos is essential. If you’re looking for convenience, you might wonder, “Does Ups Take Passport Photos?” Let’s clarify this and explore reliable alternatives for your passport photo needs.
Understanding Passport Photo Services: UPS and Beyond
Many assume that because UPS offers shipping and various business services, passport photos might be among them. However, UPS Stores generally do not offer passport photo services. While their core business revolves around shipping and printing, passport photos fall outside their service scope.
This might come as a surprise, considering the convenience UPS locations offer for many other tasks. To understand why UPS isn’t the go-to place for passport photos, and where you can reliably get them, let’s delve deeper.
Why UPS Isn’t Your Passport Photo Destination
The primary focus of UPS Stores is on shipping, packing, and business services like printing and mailboxes. Passport photos require specific equipment, training, and adherence to strict government regulations to be accepted for passport applications. These regulations cover aspects like size, background, lighting, and pose.
While some UPS Stores might offer photo services like photo printing, these are distinct from official passport photo services that guarantee compliance with government standards. Relying on a non-specialized service could lead to photos being rejected, causing delays in your passport application process.
Convenient and Reliable Alternatives for Passport Photos
Fortunately, numerous convenient and reliable options exist for obtaining passport photos that meet all official requirements. One of the most trusted and readily available options is the United States Postal Service (USPS).
Passport Services at USPS: A Comprehensive Solution
USPS not only accepts passport applications but also provides passport photo services at many of their locations. This makes it a one-stop shop for starting your passport application process. Here’s a guide based on the official USPS process for applying for a passport in person, which often includes getting your photos taken:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before heading to the Post Office, preparation is key. Start gathering the necessary documents well in advance of your travel plans. Passport processing times can fluctuate, so it’s wise to apply several months ahead of your trip. Check the State Department service estimates for the most up-to-date processing times.
For first-time applicants, minors, and those who cannot renew their passports by mail, applying in person is required. The USPS is an authorized acceptance facility for passport applications. According to the U.S. State Department, you’ll need to bring the following:
- Application Forms (unsigned): You’ll need to complete Form DS-11, Application for U.S. Passport.
- Proof of Identity Document and Photocopy: Bring your original proof of identity and a photocopy of both the front and back.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship Document and Photocopy: Provide your original proof of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the front and back.
- Passport Fees: Be prepared to pay the necessary passport fees. Refer to the USPS website for current fee information.
Apply for a Passport in Person
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package
Visit the U.S. Department of State website to ensure you have the most current information on how to apply for a passport and the required documents.
- Complete Form DS-11 Online: Access and complete the Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport on the State Department website.
- Print Your Application (Unsigned): Print the completed application form, but DO NOT SIGN IT. You will need to sign it in the presence of a Postal employee.
- Get Your Passport Photo: If you haven’t already, get your passport photo taken at a location that offers this service, such as the USPS.
- Photocopy Identity and Citizenship Documents: Make photocopies of your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.
- Calculate Fees: Determine the total fees for your passport application. USPS accepts various payment methods for their acceptance fees: credit cards, checks, and money orders. State Department fees are submitted with your application and can be paid via personal, certified, cashier’s, traveler’s check, or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Get Started on Your Application
Step 3: Schedule a USPS Appointment
Many Post Offices offering passport services operate on an appointment basis. You can schedule your appointment online using the Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or through a self-service kiosk at a participating Post Office.
Scheduling Online:
- Go to the Scheduler: Visit Schedule an Appointment.
- Select Passport Services: Choose the specific passport service needed and indicate the number of adults and minors requiring appointments.
- Search for Appointments: You can search by location first, then date/time, or vice versa.
- Confirm and Review: After selecting your location and time, enter your contact information, agree to the terms, and click Review Appointment, then Confirm Appointment.
To modify or cancel an appointment, use the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation details.
Using a Self-Service Kiosk:
- Locate a Kiosk: Go to a Post Office with self-service kiosks. Find USPS Locations
- Access Passport Scheduler: At the kiosk, touch the screen, select “Other Services,” and then “Passport Scheduler.”
- Choose Services and Number of Applicants: Select your required passport service and the number of applicants.
- Search Locations: Search for Post Offices by ZIP Code™ or City/State.
- Select Appointment Time: Choose an available date and time and agree to the terms.
- Enter Contact Information: Provide your contact details and opt-in for SMS notifications if desired.
- Review and Finalize: Review your information and select “Schedule Appointment.”
- Get Receipt: Take your printed receipt with your confirmation number and appointment details.
Step 4: Pay Fees at the Post Office
Remember that first-time passport applications involve two separate fee types: acceptance fees and processing fees. Additional costs apply for passport photos and expedited processing.
Application Acceptance Fees – USPS
Pay these fees directly at the Post Office during your appointment. Accepted payment methods include check or money order (payable to “Postmaster”), debit card, or credit card.
- $35.00 – Post Office acceptance fee
- $15.00 – Post Office photo fee (if needed)
Application Processing Fees – Department of State
These fees are paid directly to the Department of State and are sent with your application package. Ensure separate payment from USPS fees.
In Conclusion: Passport Photos and Your Options
While UPS doesn’t offer passport photo services, you have reliable and convenient alternatives, especially USPS. Utilizing USPS for both your passport photos and application can streamline the process. Remember to always check official websites like the State Department and USPS for the most current information and requirements before you begin your passport application journey.
