KSU Passport Guide: Steps & Facilities Near Kennesaw, GA

Passport Guide for the Kennesaw State University Community

Kennesaw State University (KSU) in Kennesaw, Georgia, sits in Cobb County, just northwest of Atlanta, a major hub for international travel. The Atlanta International Airport (ATL) facilitates frequent business trips to Europe and Latin America, tourism to popular destinations like the Caribbean, and academic exchanges through KSU's robust study abroad programs. Students, faculty, and staff often plan trips during spring break, summer sessions, and winter holidays, leading to seasonal spikes in passport demand. Exchange programs and last-minute opportunities, such as sudden conference invitations or family emergencies abroad, create urgent needs. However, high demand at local facilities can result in limited appointment slots, especially during peak periods. Common hurdles include confusion over expedited processing (which speeds up standard service but isn't guaranteed for travel within 14 days) versus life-or-death urgent services, passport photo rejections due to shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions, missing documents for minors, and applying for renewals with the incorrect form if ineligible for mail-in service [1].

This guide provides practical steps tailored to the KSU area, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines. Note that processing times vary and can extend during busy seasons like spring and summer—do not rely on last-minute applications for imminent travel. Always verify details on authoritative sites, as requirements can change.

Choose the Right Passport Service for Your Situation

Before starting, identify your needs to use the correct process and form. Eligibility determines whether you can apply by mail (simpler and cheaper) or must visit an acceptance facility in person.

First-Time Applicants

If you've never had a U.S. passport, use Form DS-11. You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a nearby post office or county clerk's office. This applies to most KSU students embarking on their first study abroad trip [1].

Renewals

Check eligibility for mail renewal using Form DS-82:

• Your previous passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It is undamaged and in your possession.
• You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.

If eligible, mail your application—no in-person visit needed. Ineligible? Use DS-11 in person. Many KSU faculty renewing for business travel qualify for mail service, but students with old, damaged, or lost passports do not [1].

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

Report it lost/stolen via Form DS-64 (online or mail). Then:

• If eligible for renewal (per above), use DS-82 by mail.
• Otherwise, use DS-11 in person. Include a statement explaining the issue. For urgent cases, like a stolen passport during travel prep, expedite in person [1].

Passports for Minors Under 16

Always DS-11 in person. Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Common pitfalls here include incomplete parental documentation, leading to rejections [1].

Additional Types

• Name/gender changes: DS-5504 by mail if recent passport is within a year; otherwise, DS-11/DS-82.
• For official use (e.g., diplomatic): Contact the National Passport Information Center.

Gather Required Documents and Fees

Collect originals and photocopies (on standard 8.5x11" paper) before your appointment. Key items:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (raised seal, from Georgia Vital Records if born in-state), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For Georgia births, order online or via mail from the Department of Public Health—allow 2-4 weeks standard [2]. Photocopy front/back.
• Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or military ID. Photocopy.
• Social Security Number: Provide on form (no card needed).
• Photos: One 2x2" color photo (details below).
• Fees: Paid separately—check/money order to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee ($130 adult first-time/$100 renewal; $35 minor); execution fee ($35) to facility; optional expedite ($60) [1].

For minors, parental IDs and relationship proof (birth certificate) required. Incomplete packages cause delays—triple-check.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejection Pitfalls

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections near Atlanta due to high-volume DIY attempts. Specs [3]:

• 2x2 inches, color, on photo paper.
• Taken within 6 months.
• White/cream/off-white background.
• Full face (eyes open, neutral expression), head from chin to top covering 1-1 3/8 inches.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats, uniforms; even subtle shadows/glare from indoor lights fail.
• Head coverings only for religious/medical reasons, face fully visible.

Local options near KSU: CVS/Walgreens (e.g., 2000 Cobb Pkwy NW, Kennesaw) offer compliant photos for $15; USPS facilities often provide them. Avoid selfies or home printers—glare and dimensions are frequent issues during rush seasons [3].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near KSU

Book appointments online via the facility's site or PassportAppointmentScheduler.com, as walk-ins are rare. High demand means slots fill weeks ahead in spring/summer.

• Kennesaw Post Office (2772 Cobb Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30152): By appointment, Mon-Fri. Popular for KSU students [4].
• Cobb County Superior Court Clerk (736 Whitlock Ave NW, Marietta, GA 30064, ~10 miles from KSU): Handles passports Mon-Fri, 8:30am-3:30pm. Requires appointment [5].
• Other Nearby: Town Center at Cobb Library (1750 Bells Ferry Rd, Marietta); USPS Marietta Main (100 Cherokee St NE).

For urgent travel (within 14 days, life-or-death), after acceptance facility, go to Atlanta Passport Agency by appointment only (230 Peachtree St NW)—proof of travel required [1]. Expedited (2-3 weeks) available at facilities.

Step-by-Step Checklist for In-Person Applications (DS-11)

Use this for first-time, minors, or ineligible renewals. Download forms from travel.state.gov [1].

1. Complete Form DS-11: Fill by hand (black ink, no staples). Do NOT sign until instructed.
2. Gather Documents: Citizenship proof + photocopy, ID + photocopy, SSN, photo.
3. Calculate Fees: Application fee (check to State Dept.), execution ($35 cash/check to facility).
4. Book Appointment: At Kennesaw PO or Cobb Clerk site.
5. Arrive Early: Bring all items. Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
6. Pay and Submit: Agent seals application.
7. Track Status: Online at passportstatus.state.gov after 5-7 days.

For Mail Renewals (DS-82):

1. Confirm eligibility.
2. Complete DS-82, include old passport, photo, fees (check to State Dept.; optional expedite).
3. Mail to address on form instructions. Use trackable mail.

Minors Checklist Add-Ons:

• Both parents appear or DS-3053 notarized from absent parent.
• Minor's presence required.

Allow 6-8 weeks routine; 2-3 expedited. Peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) add 4+ weeks—plan ahead for KSU breaks [1].

Expedited vs. Urgent Services: Key Differences

• Expedited: $60 extra at acceptance facility or mail. Aims for 2-3 weeks (no travel proof needed). Suitable for last-minute study abroad but not guaranteed.
• Urgent (14 Days or Less): Only for life-or-death emergencies (funeral, hospitalization). Appointment at passport agency; imminent travel ticket required. Business trips or vacations don't qualify—confusion here delays many [1].
• 1-2 Day Rush: At agencies for qualifiers ($21.36+ overnight fees).

Warning: During Georgia's busy travel seasons, even expedited faces backlogs. Apply 9+ weeks early for routine [1].

Special Considerations for KSU Students, Faculty, and Staff

KSU's Office of Global Learning supports study abroad but does not process passports—handle personally. International students needing U.S. passports? Must prove citizenship first. Faculty on sabbaticals often renew by mail. For urgent scenarios (e.g., sudden exchange slot), gather docs early. Cobb County residents can expedite birth certificates online [2]. Track Hartsfield-Jackson ATL flight requirements—many countries demand 6 months validity.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Kennesaw State University

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to verify applicants' identities, witness signatures on passport applications, and administer oaths. These locations do not process passports themselves; instead, they forward completed applications to a regional passport agency for final issuance. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. Around Kennesaw State University, you can find such facilities in nearby post offices, local government offices, and community libraries within Cobb and Cherokee counties, as well as surrounding areas like Marietta and Woodstock. Always verify a location's status through the official State Department website, as authorization can change.

When visiting, expect a straightforward but thorough review process. Bring a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants) or DS-82 (for renewals), two passport photos meeting specific requirements, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—typically via check or money order. Staff will check documents for completeness, take your oath, and seal the application. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant, but lines can form. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present. Facilities often provide forms and photo services on-site for a fee, but confirm in advance.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer vacation periods and before major holidays like spring break or Thanksgiving. Mondays are often the busiest weekdays due to weekend backlog, with mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) experiencing the most congestion from lunch-hour crowds. To minimize wait times, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less crowded weekdays like Wednesday or Thursday. Many locations offer appointments via online systems—booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially during seasonal rushes. Check facility websites or call for current protocols, and arrive prepared with all documents to avoid rescheduling. Patience and flexibility help ensure a smoother experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can KSU students get passports on campus?
No on-campus passport office. Use nearby Kennesaw Post Office or Cobb Clerk. Check KSU international student services for program-specific advice.

How long does it take during summer break?
Routine: 6-8 weeks, but peaks extend to 10-12. Expedited: 2-3 weeks targeted, delays possible. Avoid last-minute [1].

What if my passport photo gets rejected?
Resubmit new one with explanation—no extra fee usually. Common: shadows from KSU library lighting or glare. Use pharmacies [3].

I'm renewing but lost my old passport—can I mail it?
No, report via DS-64 first, then DS-11 in person if ineligible otherwise [1].

Do both parents need to come for a child's passport?
Yes, or absent parent submits notarized DS-3053. Frequent rejection cause [1].

Can I expedite for a job interview abroad in 3 weeks?
Expedite yes, but not agency urgent without life-or-death proof. Include itinerary [1].

Where do I get a Georgia birth certificate fast?
Online/vitalchek.com for rush (extra fee), or mail from GA DPH. Standard 2-4 weeks [2].

Is my 10-year-old passport renewable by mail?
If issued at 16+, undamaged, yes via DS-82. Otherwise DS-11 [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Georgia Department of Public Health - Vital Records
[3]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[4]USPS - Passport Services
[5]Cobb County Superior Court Clerk - Passports