Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a passport at Texas A&M Education Abroad if I'm not a student, faculty, or staff member?

Absolutely. Any U.S. citizen may apply for a U.S. passport with us.

What are you doing to address COVID-19 health concerns?

View our updated safety guidelines for more information on how we are protecting visitor and staff.

Are you still taking walk-ins?

At this time we are appointment only. Appointments can be made at: https://swan.tamu.edu/educationabroad. Click on a specific date to see availability.

I only need a photo, do I still need an appointment?

Yes. Appointments can be made at: https://swan.tamu.edu/educationabroad. Click on a specific date to see availability.

Do I have to wear a mask?

All staff and visitors (adults and children over five) are encouraged* to wear a face mask while in the building. Per CDC guidelines, children under 2 should not wear a mask. *not required

Texas A&M University mask guidelines can be viewed here:
https://www.tamu.edu/coronavirus/index.html

How long does it take to apply for my passport at Texas A&M Education Abroad?

Appointments are scheduled for an hour to ensure enough time for processing and cleaning between appointments. While most applications are executed within 30 minutes, those with multiple applicants or special circumstances may take longer.

I don't have the "i" after "date filed" on my Texas short form birth certificate, how do I get a new proper certificate?

The U.S. Department of State will not accept short-form birth certificates withour the "i". You will need to order a new Texas birth certificate. Please visit the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics website at https://dshs.texas.gov/vs/. Please request a long-form birth certificate as the "i" is not guaranteed on a short form.

You can also contact the office of vital stastics in the County of your birth and request a new long-form birth certificate.

You may visit the Brazos County Courthouse or the College Station City Secretary. However, if you were not born in Brazos County, you will be issued a short form. The "i' is not guaranteed on a short form. You will not know if you have the "i" until it is printed.

Can I use an out-of-state ID?

If you present an out-of-state ID, you must present an additional ID see the most common from the list below:

• Employee work ID
• Student ID
• Social Security card
• Voter registration card
• Selective Service (draft) card
• Medicare or other health card
• Credit card (will not be photocopied)
• Possibly other ID with a photograph

When will I receive my passport?

Currently the U.S. Department of State has stated that there will be delays. Routine passport processing is up to 18 weeks. Expedited passport processing is up to 12 weeks.

Processing times are subject to change. Check the Department of State passport website for up to date information.

If you do not receive your passport in that timeframe contact:
Phone 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY)

Pre-Covid passport timelines
Routine Processing takes 6-8 weeks and Expedited Processing takes 2-3 weeks. 

How can I track the status of my application?

You may track the status of your application online at any time. Note: It can take up to 3-4 week currently for your application to be tracked online. 

Pre-Covid tracking timelines
It takes 7-10 business days after applying for your passport to be tracked online. 

Will I get my original proof of citizenship back?

Yes. The Passport Agency will send your origianl proof of citizen ship along with any other original documentation back to you. It may be in a separate mailing from your new passport. If you do not receive the documents back within 10 days of your new passport: Phone 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY)

Can I apply for a friend or relative who is not present?

No. Every applicant mus apply for a new adult or minor passport in person, including minor/infant applicants.

Can I pick up my passport at Texas A&M Education Abroad?

No. The passport will be mailed to the mailing address indicated on the application. 

What if my passport was lost or stolen?

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you must complete a DS-64: Statement of Lost or Stolen Passport form. In addition you will have to reapply for a New Adult or Minor Passport. 

If you have reported your passport lost and you find it later, you may no longer use it to travel.

What if my passport was damaged or sent through the wash?

You must reapply for a new passport if the passport was damaged, washed, or other water damage. The damaged passport must be submitted with a note as to the cause of damage and an alternate proof of citizenship must be included (such as a birth certificate). Note: Water damaged passports may not looked damaged once dried, however the internal chip may be damaged and it is recommended to replace the passport.

I am going on a cruise and will be traveling in the Gulf, Caribean, or Alaskan coast, do I need a passport book/card? If so, which one?

Please contact your travel provider and ask them.

What is the difference between the passport book and passport card?

The passort card is the wallet-size travel document that can only be used to re-enter the United States at land border-crossings and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexido, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The card provides a less expensive, smaller, and convenient alternative to the passport book for those who travel frequently to these destinations or by sea. 

The passport card cannot be used for international travel by air.

You may have both the book and the card.

I have other questions.

Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page on the Department of State Passport website or email us at abroad@tamu.edu.