Getting a passport in Eugene, Oregon is simple if you know where to go and what to bring.
People can apply for a U.S. passport at the Eugene Post Office located at 520 Willamette St or at the University of Oregon’s Ticket Office.
These locations are official acceptance facilities, meaning they help with all the paperwork and check your documents before sending your application to be processed.
Applicants need a completed DS-11 form, proof of U.S. citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo.
Both the post office and the UO Ticket Office can answer questions and help make sure everything is correct.
For more details about locations and appointment hours, visit the USPS passport appointment page or learn about the process at the UO Ticket Office site.
Anyone planning an international trip or just needing a government ID will find the process in Eugene clear and straightforward.
Eligibility Requirements for a U.S. Passport
To get a U.S. passport, a person must meet certain rules about citizenship, age, and legal status.
Some people, like minors or those with criminal records, have extra steps or limits they need to know.
Citizenship Criteria
A person must show they are a U.S. citizen or national to qualify for a passport.
Common proof includes a U.S. birth certificate, a previously issued passport, or a naturalization certificate.
If born abroad, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad also works.
Citizenship documents must be original or certified copies, not just a standard photocopy.
The application must also include a legible photocopy of the same document.
Refusing to provide the right documents will delay or even stop the process.
Before applying, people should check the exact list of what is accepted by official passport requirements.
Minors and Parental Consent
Children under 16 must apply for a passport in person with both parents or legal guardians present.
This proof stops issues like passport fraud or parental abduction.
If one parent cannot attend, a signed consent form (DS-3053) and a copy of their ID is required.
Teens ages 16 and 17 can apply alone, but at least one parent should go with them or give written consent.
Extra steps may be needed if guardianship is shared or only one parent has custody.
Both parents must give consent, unless there’s legal evidence to the contrary.
More information for families can be found through passport application instructions for minors.
Criminal History Considerations
Those who have been convicted of certain crimes may not automatically be denied a U.S. passport.
However, people with a felony warrant, federal arrest, or on parole or probation for a drug offense involving crossing borders may face blocks.
Passport applications are checked against criminal databases for open warrants or child support debts over $2,500.
If found, the applicant may be denied or the process may slow down.
It is illegal to give false information, and lying on an application is considered passport fraud.
This can lead to new criminal investigations or prosecution if discovered.
Special Cases: Sentencing and Legal Restrictions
Some legal problems, like being under active sentencing, stricter parole, or probation, can affect a person’s ability to get a passport.
Judges can limit travel for people involved in active criminal cases or those serving time.
Anyone actively forbidden by the court or under strict probation cannot receive a passport until allowed by law.
Only some exceptions apply, and these are rare and often need special paperwork from a judge.
Some people under legal restrictions, like witnesses in federal trials, may also face limits.
Those who have been found guilty of passport-related crimes must wait until their penalties or sentences are fully complete before applying again.
How to Complete the Passport Application in Eugene
Getting a passport in Eugene, Oregon means knowing where to go, what forms to fill out, and making sure everything meets official requirements.
It helps to gather all documents and materials ahead of your appointment, so the process moves faster.
Locating Passport Acceptance Facilities
Residents in Eugene can apply for their passport at different acceptance facilities.
The main option is the Eugene Post Office at 520 Willamette St, which handles passport appointments Monday through Saturday.
The office has limited appointment hours, so it is best to check online and book ahead.
Visit the USPS passport appointment page to pick a convenient time slot.
The UO Ticket Office at the University of Oregon also accepts applications, especially for students and staff.
Some city libraries and county offices may offer passport services, but times and locations can change.
Always confirm facility hours and policies before your visit.
Here is a quick guide to local locations:
- USPS Eugene Post Office: Central location, online booking, and Saturday hours.
- UO Ticket Office: Ideal for university members.
- Other county or city offices: Call ahead to check for services.
Required Forms and Documents
The most common form for new passports is the DS-11.
This form can be found online or picked up at most acceptance facilities.
Complete it using black ink and do not sign it until asked to by an official.
Important documents to bring include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship: A certified birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport, or a naturalization certificate.
- Government-issued photo ID: For example, a driver’s license or state ID card.
- Photocopies: Bring clear copies of your ID and citizenship documents.
- Passport photo (see next section for details).
Applicants will also need to pay processing and application fees.
Payments are usually accepted by check or money order.
Check specific requirements at the U.S. Department of State’s passport page.
Photo Specifications and Guidelines
A valid passport photo is crucial and must follow the U.S. Department of State’s strict standards.
The photo should be in color, 2 x 2 inches, and taken within the last six months.
The requirements include:
- Plain white or off-white background
- Face fully visible with no glasses or hats
- Neutral expression or natural smile
- No shadows or harsh lighting
Photos must be printed on high-quality photo paper.
Many acceptance facilities, including the Eugene Post Office, can take a passport photo for an extra fee if you need one.
Double-check the photo before submitting; an incorrect image may delay your application.
Step-by-Step Passport Application Process
Applicants in Eugene, Oregon need to follow several specific steps to get a U.S. passport.
Each part of the process has its own requirements and paperwork, so being prepared will save time and prevent mistakes.
Filling Out the Application
Anyone applying for a passport will need to fill out Form DS-11 if applying for their first passport, if their last passport was lost, or if the previous one was issued before age 16.
The form requires personal details such as full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
It is important to complete the application accurately and to not sign it until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
Applicants should gather proof of U.S. citizenship, like an original birth certificate or a naturalization certificate, and a valid photo ID such as a driver’s license.
Besides the original documents, a photocopy of each must be included in the application packet.
Download and print the application from the U.S. Department of State’s official passport application page, or pick up a paper copy at a local acceptance facility, like a post office.
It helps to fill out the online version because it is typed, reducing errors and saving time during the in-person appointment.
Booking an Appointment
Once the application and documents are ready, the next step is to schedule an in-person appointment at a passport acceptance facility.
In Eugene, many people visit their local post office or county clerk office.
Walk-ins are rare; most locations require an appointment.
Passport appointments are usually booked in advance, sometimes several weeks out.
It is possible to see available times and book an appointment online using services like the USPS passport appointment portal.
Arriving at least 10 minutes early is recommended to allow time for check-in and document review.
Some facilities require applicants to bring passport photos, while others offer to take them on-site for an extra fee.
Double-check the requirements for your specific location before your appointment date.
Paying Passport Fees
Applicants must pay the passport fee at the time of application.
There are two main fees: the application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State and the execution (acceptance) fee paid at the acceptance facility.
As of 2025, the standard fee for an adult passport book is $130, while the execution fee is $35.
Checks or money orders are usually required for government fees, and separate payments may be needed: one for the U.S. Department of State and one for the local facility.
Credit and debit card payments are not widely accepted for passport fees, so bring the correct payment types to avoid delays.
Extra costs may apply for expedited service, overnight shipping, and passport photos.
Detailed fee information and methods of payment can be found on the Travel.gov cost guide or by calling the acceptance facility directly.
Always keep your receipt in case you need to track your application or respond to questions from the IRS or the U.S. Department of State.
Processing Times and Expedited Services
Timing can be a big factor for many people applying for a passport in Eugene, Oregon.
Knowing how long it takes and what to do if you need it faster is important.
Standard Processing Timeline
A typical passport application usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks to process.
This time starts once the passport office receives your documents.
Mailing times to and from the agency can add extra days.
Applicants must submit all required forms, a photo, and proof of citizenship at a local acceptance facility.
Payment for application fees is also required.
Most locations, like post offices and city government offices in Eugene, offer standard processing.
People should plan ahead and apply early to avoid stress.
If international travel plans are more than two months away, this option is usually best.
You can track your application status online during the process.
For the most current wait times, visit the Processing Times for U.S. Passports page on Travel.gov.
Options for Expediting
When faster service is needed, expedited processing is available for an extra fee.
With this option, passports are processed in 2 to 3 weeks.
However, mailing times may add up to 2 more weeks to get your passport in hand after approval.
For true emergencies, such as travel within 14 days, applicants can try to book an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency.
Proof of urgent travel is required.
Expedited service must be requested when applying and paid for during the transaction.
Many Eugene locations accept expedited requests, but no office can process applications faster than the government’s expedited timeline.
For details, including fees and required steps, check the How to Get my U.S. Passport Fast guide.
Important Legal and Security Considerations
When applying for a passport in Eugene, Oregon, applicants should be aware of the laws and rules that protect against fraud and keep personal data safe.
Even simple mistakes or shortcuts can lead to serious problems, including federal charges.
Avoiding Passport Fraud
Passport fraud includes using false information to get a passport or using someone else’s identity. This can happen if someone gives fake documents, such as forged birth certificates or illegal driver’s licenses.
People should only use correct, up-to-date documents. Always fill out forms honestly and double-check all supporting proof, like IDs and citizenship paperwork.
If an applicant receives or is asked for a fictitious money order or is told to send money outside the official channels, that is likely a scam.
Keeping information safe is important. Never share personal information, such as Social Security numbers or passport application status, with anyone except approved government workers.
If something seems suspicious at any step, contact the authorities or check with the U.S. State Department directly.
Consequences of False Statements
Lying on a passport form, such as making a false statement about identity, citizenship, or other details, is a federal crime. The penalties can include heavy fines, years in prison, or both.
If a person is caught giving false statements on forms like the DS-11 or forging any document, they can be charged under U.S. law. Even simple errors that look like lies may put an application on hold or lead to an investigation.
Anyone who is unsure should ask for guidance at a local passport acceptance facility before submitting paperwork. Making a false statement can also lead the government to deny or revoke a passport, causing future travel problems.
For minors or people helping others apply, it is important not to change information to make the process easier.
Recognizing Theft of Government Property
Taking or misusing blank passport forms, official stamps, or sealed documents is considered theft of government property. This is a felony, and those charged can face prison time.
People should not accept help from anyone offering to “speed up” the passport process by selling government documents or pre-filled forms. Only trusted locations, such as the U.S. Post Office in Eugene, can handle these papers.
Applicants should watch for signs of tampering, such as missing seals or incomplete paperwork. If a passport, proof of citizenship, or any government money order goes missing, it should be reported right away.
Only the person who applied should open official government envelopes containing a new passport after delivery.
Relevant Government Agencies and Contacts
Getting a passport in Eugene, Oregon can be easier if you know which government agencies to turn to for help. These agencies handle passport applications, security reviews, and issues related to taxes or lost documents.
U.S. Department of State Resources
The U.S. Department of State is responsible for issuing all U.S. passports. Applications can be started online or in person at a local acceptance facility, like a post office or a university office.
For example, the Eugene Post Office at 520 Willamette St. offers passport appointments to help with your application. To ask questions or get status updates, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
This line is open most days and can help with lost or stolen passports, urgent travel needs, and regular processing times. For more help on where to start or speed up the process, check details at the State Department’s passport page.
IRS Passport-Related Issues
The Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, can affect whether someone gets a passport if they have unpaid federal taxes. If a person owes more than $62,000 in back taxes, the IRS may notify the State Department, and the application could be denied or an existing passport revoked.
IRS tax debts connected to passports are managed by sending a certification of seriously delinquent tax debt to the State Department. This may be handled by both the IRS and the IRS Criminal Investigations team, especially when tax fraud or suspected evasion is involved.
To resolve these issues, the best step is to contact the IRS directly by calling their collections line or by paying off the debt. Once the debt is cleared, the IRS will tell the Department of State to lift the restrictions, making it possible to get or renew a passport.
Diplomatic Security and Other Offices
The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is a special branch of the State Department that investigates passport fraud, identity theft, or stolen passport cases. If a passport is reported stolen or someone tries to use false documents, the DSS will get involved.
Other important offices that may sometimes play a role include law enforcement and financial agencies. Though it is less common, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland is sometimes mentioned in cases involving financial records tied to citizenship, though most applicants in Eugene will not interact with this office.
Individuals who suspect fraud or need to report a lost passport should quickly contact the National Passport Information Center and, if needed, local law enforcement. The DSS only gets involved in more serious cases, so most regular questions can be handled through the main State Department or local post office.
Noteworthy Case Studies in Oregon
Many people follow the process to get a passport legally, but there have been unusual cases where the laws around passports were tested in Oregon. These examples involve attempts to misuse the passport system, special actions taken in Josephine County, and the direct work of federal legal authorities to protect the process.
The Zachary Stanley Rice and Brian Scot Rice Incident
Zachary Stanley Rice and Brian Scot Rice were involved in a case where both faced legal trouble for submitting false information on passport applications. Investigators found that the Rice brothers provided misleading details regarding their identities and supporting documents.
Their actions led to federal charges for making false statements. The outcome led to both being held accountable, showing that even small acts of fraud can lead to strict penalties.
Anyone applying for a passport in Oregon should be aware that information on forms is carefully checked. This incident proves that the process is closely watched for honesty and accuracy.
Cases from Josephine County
Josephine County has seen various cases over the years involving passport application fraud and misuse. Some of these involve individuals attempting to use other people’s birth certificates, fake driver’s licenses, or incorrect Social Security details.
In a handful of examples, officials discovered these problems during routine checks before issuing passports. The county has worked to improve training for local clerks and increased cooperation with federal agencies.
When issues are caught early, it prevents further problems and helps protect the identity of Oregon residents. Regular audits and attention to detail are vital in keeping the process safe for everyone.
Public reminders and notices now advise people to bring only accurate documents. This reduces delays and helps applicants avoid unintentional mistakes that could be seen as fraud.
Role of Assistant U.S. Attorney
The Assistant U.S. Attorney plays a significant role in prosecuting passport-related crimes in Oregon. These federal lawyers review evidence collected by investigating agencies and decide whether to bring charges against individuals or groups.
They work closely with local law enforcement, federal agencies, and the court system to make sure cases proceed fairly. Their responsibilities include preparing legal documents, presenting evidence in court, and seeking penalties for violations.
In recent years, their focus has included both stopping large schemes and handling single cases of false applications. By addressing fraud at every level, Assistant U.S. Attorneys help keep the passport system in Oregon strong and reliable for everyone.
Tips for a Smooth Passport Experience in Eugene
Applying for a passport in Eugene can go faster and easier when documents are prepared ahead of time and the application status is followed closely. Careful planning and attention to detail save time and prevent common delays.
Organizing Documents
Having all paperwork ready before the appointment makes the process much smoother. Applicants should gather proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, plus a valid photo ID.
It helps to bring clear photocopies of these documents. For a first-time passport, the application must be filled out and printed before arriving at the office.
Anyone renewing a passport should check if they need to apply in person or if they can mail their renewal. Passport photos must be recent, usually taken in the last six months, and meet government rules.
Many get their photos taken at local drugstores or places like Walgreens or FedEx Office in Eugene. A simple checklist can help ensure nothing is forgotten:
- Completed application form
- Proof of citizenship (and a copy)
- Photo ID (and a copy)
- Passport photo
- Payment for fees
Being organized means the appointment can start on time and any missing items can be spotted early.
Checking Application Status
After the application is submitted, tracking progress is important.
The U.S. Department of State website lets applicants check their passport status online. They need the last name, birthdate, and the last four digits of their Social Security number.
Updates usually start showing up 2-3 weeks after the application was accepted.
If the passport is urgent, using expedited services or checking with facilities like FedEx Office in Eugene can help quicken processing.
Delays sometimes happen during busy travel seasons.
Applicants can sign up for email updates or call the National Passport Information Center for help.
