Air Force Academy Passport Office Services

For members of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) community, including cadets, military personnel, their families, and civilians in the Colorado Springs area, obtaining or renewing a U.S. passport is a vital step for official travel, international assignments, or personal trips. The Air Force Academy Passport Office, located at the USPS Post Office at 5136 Community Center Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840, offers convenient passport services tailored to the needs of this unique community. This comprehensive guide for 2025 details the Air Force Academy passport office services, including application processes, fees, requirements, and tips to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re preparing for a deployment or a vacation, this guide helps you navigate the passport process with confidence.

Air Force Academy Passport Office Services

The Air Force Academy Passport Office, operated through the United States Postal Service (USPS) facility on base, provides passport acceptance services for first-time applicants, renewals, and expedited processing. Located at 5136 Community Center Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840, this office serves cadets, active-duty personnel, dependents, Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, and local residents within the USAFA jurisdiction. The office is equipped to handle routine and expedited passport applications, offer passport photo services, and provide guidance on documentation. Below, we outline the services offered, application steps, fees, and requirements for 2025, based on official USPS and U.S. Department of State guidelines, supplemented by USAFA-specific information.

Services Offered at the Air Force Academy Passport Office

The passport office at the USAFA provides the following services:

• Passport Application Acceptance:
  • Processes first-time passport applications for adults (16 and older) and minors (under 16).
  • Accepts passport renewal applications for eligible adults (passports issued within the last 15 years, when applicant was 16 or older, and still in possession).
  • Handles applications for passport cards (valid for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda).
• Expedited Passport Processing:
  • Offers expedited service (2–3 weeks processing) for urgent travel needs, such as military assignments or emergency personal travel.
  • Facilitates referrals to the Denver Passport Agency (1600 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202) for life-or-death emergencies (travel within 72 hours).
• Passport Photo Services:
  • Provides on-site passport photos compliant with U.S. Department of State requirements (2×2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months).
  • Cost: Approximately $15 for two photos, subject to change.
• Document Verification:
  • Reviews and verifies application forms, identification, and citizenship documents to ensure compliance before submission to the U.S. Department of State.
• Appointment Scheduling:
  • Requires appointments for passport services, bookable online at tools.usps.com or by calling (719) 472-0537.
  • Limited walk-in availability, depending on staff capacity.
• Customer Conveniences:
  • Handicap-accessible facility, ensuring access for all applicants.
  • Convenient location near Community Center Drive, accessible to cadets and base personnel.
  • Operating hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM; closed Sundays and federal holidays (e.g., Independence Day, July 4, 2025).

Notes:

• The office does not process official passports (for military or government travel); contact the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) at USAFA’s 10th Force Support Squadron for official passport services.
• For lost/stolen passports, applicants must apply in person and provide additional documentation.
• Verify services at tools.usps.com or call (719) 472-0537, as offerings may adjust due to staffing or policy changes.

Who Can Use the Air Force Academy Passport Office?

The passport office serves:

• USAFA Cadets: Preparing for international training, study abroad, or personal travel.
• Active-Duty Military: Stationed at or near USAFA, needing tourist passports for personal travel.
• Dependents: Spouses and children of military personnel, including minors under 16.
• DoD Civilians: Employees working on base, such as instructors or contractors.
• Local Residents: Civilians in the Colorado Springs area, including those outside the base with valid access.

Notes:

• Base access is required to reach the post office. Non-military applicants must coordinate with the USAFA Visitor Center (1855 S Gate Rd, USAF Academy, CO 80840) for entry, presenting a valid ID (e.g., driver’s license).
• Official passports for military travel are handled by the MPF, not the USPS office.

Step-by-Step Process for Passport Services

To apply for or renew a passport at the Air Force Academy Passport Office, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Gather Required Documents:
  • First-Time Applicants (16 and older):
    • Completed Form DS-11 (available at travel.state.gov or the office, do not sign until instructed).
    • Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, naturalization certificate; original and photocopy).
    • Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, military ID; original and photocopy).
    • One passport photo (2×2 inches, white background).
  • Renewal Applicants:
    • Completed Form DS-82 (for eligible adults).
    • Current passport (original, will be returned canceled).
    • One passport photo.
  • Minors Under 16:
    • Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, proof of parental relationship (e.g., birth certificate listing parents).
    • Both parents’ IDs and consent (or notarized Form DS-3053 from absent parent).
    • One passport photo.
  • Lost/Stolen Passports:
    • Form DS-11, Form DS-64 (Statement of Lost Passport), and a police report (if applicable).
    • Proof of citizenship and identity, one photo.
  • Notes: Original documents are returned after verification. Translations are required for non-English documents. Check travel.state.gov for forms.
• Step 2: Schedule an Appointment:
  • Book online at tools.usps.com by selecting “USPO – USAF Academy” and an available slot.
  • Call (719) 472-0537 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM) if online scheduling is unavailable.
  • Appointments are available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM.
  • Walk-ins may be accommodated but are not guaranteed.
  • Notes: Book 2–4 weeks in advance, as slots fill quickly during peak seasons (January–April, June–August).
• Step 3: Pay Passport Fees:
  • Fees (2025 rates, in USD):
    • Adult Passport Book (first-time): $130 (standard), $190 (expedited).
    • Adult Passport Book (renewal): $130.
    • Minor Passport Book (under 16): $100 (standard), $160 (expedited).
    • Passport Card (first-time): $30; renewal: $30.
    • Expedited Service: Additional $60.
    • Overnight Delivery (return shipping): $19.53.
    • Acceptance Fee: $35 (first-time/minor applications, paid to USPS).
  • Payment methods:
    • Passport fees: Check or money order to “U.S. Department of State.”
    • Acceptance/photo fees: Cash, check, or credit/debit card to “USPS.”
  • Notes: Separate payments are required for passport and acceptance fees. Confirm amounts at travel.state.gov.
• Step 4: Visit the Passport Office:
  • Arrive at 5136 Community Center Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840, 10–15 minutes early with all documents, forms, and payments.
  • Base access requires a valid ID at the gate (e.g., military ID, driver’s license).
  • Submit your application to the passport agent, who verifies documents and administers an oath (for Form DS-11).
  • Get photos taken on-site if needed (~$15).
  • Receive a tracking number for your application.
  • Notes: Dress appropriately for photos (no uniforms, white clothing, or headwear unless religious). The office is near the USAFA Community Center, accessible via I-25.
• Step 5: Track and Receive Your Passport:
  • Processing times:
    • Standard: 4–6 weeks.
    • Expedited: 2–3 weeks.
    • Emergency: 1–3 days via Denver Passport Agency (appointment required, 1-877-487-2778).
  • Track status at travel.state.gov using your tracking number.
  • Passports are mailed via USPS Priority Mail; provide a secure address (e.g., base housing or PO box).
  • Old passports are returned canceled.
  • Notes: Contact 1-877-487-2778 for delays or issues. Cadets may coordinate delivery through their unit mailroom.

Required Documents Checklist

Ensure you bring:

• Application Form: DS-11 (first-time/minors) or DS-82 (renewals).
• Proof of Citizenship: Birth certificate, naturalization certificate (original + photocopy).
• Proof of Identity: Driver’s license, military ID (original + photocopy).
• Passport Photo: One 2×2 inch photo (or get on-site).
• Payment: Checks/money orders for passport and acceptance fees.
• Additional for Minors:
  • Birth certificate listing parents, parental IDs, consent form (DS-3053 if needed).
• Additional for Lost/Stolen:
  • Form DS-64, police report (if applicable).

Notes: Photocopies must be single-sided. Bring originals for verification.

Fees and Payment Details

• Adult Passport Book: $130 (standard), $190 (expedited).
• Minor Passport Book: $100 (standard), $160 (expedited).
• Passport Card: $30 (first-time/renewal).
• Expedited Service: $60 extra.
• Overnight Delivery: $19.53.
• Acceptance Fee: $35 (first-time/minors).
• Photo Fee: ~$15 (on-site).
• Payment: Checks/money orders to “U.S. Department of State” (passport fees); cash/card to “USPS” (acceptance/photos).

Notes: Fees are non-refundable. Verify at travel.state.gov.

Summary Table: Air Force Academy Passport Office Services (2025)

Service	Details	Fees	Processing Time	Notes
First-Time Passport	Form DS-11, citizenship/ID proof, photo	$130–$190 (book), $30 (card), $35 acceptance	4–6 weeks (standard), 2–3 weeks (expedited)	Appointment required
Renewal	Form DS-82, current passport, photo	$130 (book), $30 (card)	4–6 weeks	Mail-in or in-person
Minor Passport	Form DS-11, parental consent, photo	$100–$160 (book), $35 acceptance	4–6 weeks (standard), 2–3 weeks (expedited)	Both parents or consent form
Expedited Service	Urgent travel processing	$60 extra	2–3 weeks	Call for emergencies
Passport Photos	2×2 inches, white background	~$15	Same-day	On-site service
Lost/Stolen Passport	Form DS-11, DS-64, police report	$130–$190, $35 acceptance	4–6 weeks	In-person only

Preparing for Your Passport Office Visit

To ensure a seamless experience:

• Verify Documents: Check travel.state.gov for form and document requirements. Missing items require rescheduling.
• Book Early: Schedule appointments 2–4 weeks in advance via tools.usps.com, especially for cadets before summer travel.
• Get Photos: Use on-site photo services (~$15) or bring compliant photos from a local studio (e.g., Walgreens at 11250 S Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, ~$15).
• Plan Base Access: Non-military visitors need gate clearance; contact the Visitor Center at (719) 333-2025 with your ID details.
• Bring Payment: Prepare separate checks for passport fees (to “U.S. Department of State”) and acceptance/photo fees (to “USPS”).
• Arrive Prepared: Bring a pen, photocopies, and a secure folder for documents. Parking is available near the Community Center.

Special Considerations

Certain situations require additional steps:

• Cadets:
  • Coordinate with your squadron or Academic Advisor for travel-related passport needs.
  • Use unit mailrooms for secure passport delivery to avoid delays.
• Minors Under 16:
  • Both parents must attend or provide notarized Form DS-3053. Military deployments may allow exceptions; call (719) 472-0537.
  • Passports are valid for 5 years.
• Lost or Stolen Passports:
  • Report immediately to 1-877-487-2778 to invalidate the passport.
  • Apply in person with Form DS-64 and a police report (if available).
• Official Passports:
  • For military or government travel, contact the MPF Passport Office at the 10th Force Support Squadron (719-333-8766) for no-fee official passports.
  • Required for deployments or international training (e.g., NATO exercises).
• Expedited Needs:
  • For travel within 14 days, book an appointment at the Denver Passport Agency (1-877-487-2778) with proof of travel (e.g., itinerary).
  • Life-or-death emergencies (within 72 hours) receive same-day service.
• Non-Military Residents:
  • Civilians in El Paso County can use the USAFA office but must secure base access via the South Gate (I-25, Exit 156).

Tips for a Smooth Passport Process

• Apply Early: Start 6–9 months before travel to avoid expedited fees ($60) or delays, especially for cadets with international programs.
• Check Photo Compliance: Ensure photos meet 2×2 inch, white background standards. On-site photos reduce rejection risk.
• Track Your Application: Monitor status at travel.state.gov to plan pickup or delivery. Cadets, notify your unit of expected mail.
• Secure Documents: Store your passport, birth certificate, and ID in a safe to prevent loss (replacement costs $130–$190).
• Contact the Office: Call (719) 472-0537 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM) or visit tools.usps.com for questions.
• Use Expedited Services Wisely: Save $60 by choosing standard processing unless travel is urgent.
• Stay Informed: Check travel.state.gov or www.usafa.edu for updates on holidays (e.g., Veterans Day, November 11, 2025) or base closures.
• Leverage Base Resources: Consult the MPF or Family Readiness Center for guidance on military-specific travel needs.

Why Passport Services at USAFA Matter

The Air Force Academy Passport Office provides a convenient, accessible service for a diverse community, ensuring:

• Military Readiness: Cadets and personnel are prepared for international training or deployments.
• Family Support: Dependents can travel to join sponsors or visit family abroad.
• Community Access: Civilians benefit from a local passport facility without traveling to downtown Colorado Springs.
• Efficiency: On-site photos and document verification streamline applications.

A valid U.S. passport enables visa-free travel to over 180 countries, supports Global Entry for expedited U.S. re-entry, and proves citizenship for consular services abroad.

FAQ: Common Questions About Air Force Academy Passport Office Services

What services does the Air Force Academy Passport Office provide in 2025?

The office at 5136 Community Center Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840, offers first-time passport applications, renewals, expedited processing (2–3 weeks, $60 extra), and passport photos (~$15). Appointments are required via tools.usps.com or (719) 472-0537. Official passports are handled by the MPF.

Can civilians use the Air Force Academy Passport Office?

Yes, civilians in the Colorado Springs area can use the office but need base access through the South Gate (I-25, Exit 156). Contact the Visitor Center at (719) 333-2025 to arrange entry with a valid ID (e.g., driver’s license). Services include applications, photos, and expedited processing.

How long does it take to get a passport at the Air Force Academy Passport Office?

Standard processing takes 4–6 weeks; expedited processing takes 2–3 weeks ($60 extra). For travel within 14 days, contact the Denver Passport Agency (1-877-487-2778). Track your application at travel.state.gov. Passports are mailed to your provided address.

Navigating Passport Services with Confidence

The Air Force Academy Passport Office at 5136 Community Center Drive is a reliable resource for cadets, military families, DoD civilians, and local residents seeking U.S. passports in 2025. By scheduling an appointment, gathering required documents, and leveraging on-site photo services, you’ll secure your passport efficiently. Start early, verify your documents, and use the office’s convenient location to prepare for your next mission or adventure. Whether you’re headed to Europe, supporting a deployment, or exploring the world, your passport from the USAFA office opens the door to global opportunities.