Getting a Passport in Greensburg, IN: Facilities, Fees, Steps

Getting a Passport in Greensburg, IN

Residents of Greensburg and Decatur County, Indiana, often need passports for international business trips to Europe or Asia, family vacations to Mexico or the Caribbean, or student exchange programs abroad. Indiana sees higher travel volumes during spring and summer breaks, as well as winter holidays when many head to warmer destinations like Florida with international connections. College students from nearby institutions, such as those commuting to Indiana University or Ivy Tech, frequently apply for study abroad. Last-minute trips for family emergencies or urgent business also arise, but processing delays during peak seasons can complicate plans. This guide covers the process for obtaining a U.S. passport locally, drawing from official sources to help navigate common hurdles like appointment shortages at busy facilities, photo rejections, and documentation mix-ups.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and application method. Misusing a form, such as submitting a renewal application for a first-time passport, leads to rejection and delays.

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, apply in person using Form DS-11. This includes most adults applying for the first time and all children under 16. You must appear at an acceptance facility, like the Greensburg Post Office, with all documents.[2]

Passport Renewal

You may qualify to renew by mail using Form DS-82 if:

• Your previous passport was issued when you were 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.

Indiana residents with expired passports from over 15 years ago must reapply in person as first-time applicants.[2] Do not mail renewals to local post offices; send to the address on the DS-82 instructions.

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Report the Incident First: Start with Form DS-64 (free, available online at travel.state.gov or by mail) to officially report the loss, theft, or damage. This prevents misuse of your old passport but does not issue a replacement. Common mistake: Skipping this step, which can delay future applications.

Apply for a Replacement: Use Form DS-11 in person at a nearby passport acceptance facility (such as post offices, county clerks, or libraries in Decatur County or surrounding areas). Bring:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate),
• Valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID),
• Two identical 2x2-inch passport photos (taken within 6 months; many local pharmacies offer this),
• Fees (checkbook/card for book; cash/card for card; expedited adds $60+),
• Form DS-64 confirmation if applicable.

For minors under 16, both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (2-3 expedited); plan ahead for travel.

Decision Guidance:

• DS-64 only if no urgent travel (e.g., report now, apply later).
• DS-11 now if traveling soon—choose expedited/life-or-death service if needed (proof required).
• Abroad? Contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate immediately for emergency support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Mailing DS-11 for lost/stolen passports (in-person only required).
• Using faded/expired ID or non-compliant photos (must be white background, no glasses/selfies).
• Underestimating fees/timing—verify at travel.state.gov and call facility ahead for IN-specific wait times/appointments.[2]

Passport for a Minor (Under 16)

Always apply in person with DS-11. Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent. This is non-renewable; children need a new passport every five years.[3]

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Greensburg and Decatur County

Greensburg has limited facilities due to its size, so book appointments early, especially during Indiana's busy travel seasons. High demand often fills slots weeks ahead at post offices and county offices.

• Greensburg Post Office: 104 W Washington St, Greensburg, IN 47240. Offers passport execution services Monday–Friday, typically 9 AM–3 PM (call to confirm). Appointments required via USPS online locator or phone (812-663-3535).[4]
• Decatur County Clerk's Office: Located at the Decatur County Courthouse, 88 N Franklin St, Greensburg, IN 47240. Accepts applications during business hours; call (812-663-8225) for passport services and appointments.[5]

If slots are unavailable, check nearby in Shelbyville (Shelby County Clerk) or Columbus (Bartholomew County Clerk), about 30–45 minutes drive. For urgent travel within 14 days to a foreign country, life-or-death emergencies within three days, or official government travel, contact the Indianapolis Passport Agency (150 W Market St, Suite 115, Indianapolis, IN 46204). Proof of travel and appointment required; it's not for routine cases.[6]

Walk-ins are rare; always verify hours and requirements by phone or online, as services can change.

Required Documents

Gather originals and photocopies (on plain white 8.5x11 paper) before your appointment. Common pitfalls in Decatur County include missing birth certificates or parental consent for minors.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (Indiana-issued from county health department or state vital records), naturalization certificate, or previous U.S. passport. Hospital birth certificates or photocopies are invalid.[7]
• Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Name must match citizenship document exactly.
• Photocopies: One of each document's front/back.
• For Name Changes: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
• Minors: Both parents' IDs, birth certificate, and Form DS-3053 if one parent absent.[3]

Obtain Indiana birth certificates from the Indiana Department of Health Vital Records (online, mail, or walk-in) or Decatur County Health Department (228 N Broadway St, Greensburg).[8] Processing takes 2–4 weeks; expedite if needed.

Passport Photos

Photos account for many rejections in Indiana applications. Use a recent (within 6 months) 2x2-inch color photo on white/cream background.

• Specifications: Head 1–1 3/8 inches, even lighting, no glasses (unless medically required), neutral expression, no uniforms/hats (except religious/medical), plain background.[9]
• Common Issues: Shadows under eyes/chin from poor lighting, glare on forehead, incorrect size, or red-eye from flash.

Local options in Greensburg:

• USPS at Greensburg Post Office (often $15).[4]
• Walgreens or CVS pharmacies (confirm digital print specs).
• Avoid selfies or home printers.

Fees and Payment

Pay application fees (to U.S. Department of State) and execution fees (to facility) separately. Check/money order for State Dept; cash/check for facility.

Totals vary; use the State Dept fee calculator.[10] No personal checks for execution at some facilities.

Processing Times and Expedited Service

Routine: 6–8 weeks (mail) or 4–6 weeks (in-person to agency).[1] Expedited (gold rush processing): 2–3 weeks (+$60). No guarantees—peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) in Indiana add 2–4 weeks due to volume. Avoid relying on last-minute processing; apply 9+ months before travel.

Urgent within 14 days? Only Indianapolis agency qualifies with itinerary proof.[6] Track status online after 7–10 days.[11]

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time Adult Applicants

Use this checklist for DS-11 applications at Greensburg facilities. Complete Form DS-11 online (do not sign until instructed).[2]

1. Confirm Eligibility: First-time or ineligible for renewal? Gather citizenship proof.
2. Obtain Birth Certificate: Order from Indiana Vital Records if needed (allow 2–4 weeks).[8]
3. Get Passport Photo: Meet specs; get two copies.[9]
4. Fill Form DS-11: Online at travel.state.gov; print single-sided.
5. Make Photocopies: Front/back of ID, citizenship docs.
6. Book Appointment: Call Greensburg Post Office or Decatur County Clerk.
7. Calculate Fees: Prepare payments.
8. Attend Appointment: Bring all items; sign DS-11 in presence of agent. Do not fold/ staple.
9. Mail if Needed: Agent seals envelope.
10. Track Application: After 1 week, use online tool.[11]

For renewals by mail: Use DS-82, include old passport, photo, fees; mail to National Passport Processing Center.[2]

Special Considerations for Minors Under 16

Indiana families with children in exchange programs face extra scrutiny. Both parents must appear with the child, or one with DS-3053 notarized consent from the other (including ID copy). No exceptions without court order. Applications valid 5 years; reapply often for growing students.[3]

Renewals by Mail for Eligible Indiana Residents

If qualifying, mail from Greensburg:

• Completed DS-82.
• Current passport.
• New photo.
• Fees (check to "U.S. Department of State").
• Name change docs if applicable.

Address: National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (expedited to different PO Box).[2] USPS tracking recommended.

Urgent Travel Scenarios

For Indiana business travelers or families with emergencies:

• Within 14 Days: Indianapolis Passport Agency appointment only (call 1-877-487-2778).[6]
• Within 3 Days (Life/Death): Same, with death certificate/hospital letter.
• No local urgent service in Decatur County.

Book flights after passport in hand; airlines verify electronically.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Greensburg

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities do not produce passports on-site; instead, they verify your identity, review your application for completeness, administer the oath, and forward your documents to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types in and around Greensburg include post offices, county clerk offices, public libraries, and municipal courthouses. To locate one, use the official State Department website's search tool or check with local government resources, entering "Greensburg" or nearby areas like surrounding counties.

When visiting, expect to bring a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, passport photos meeting State Department specs, and payment for application and execution fees—typically via check or money order for the government portion. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Walk-ins are often available at some sites, but many recommend or require appointments to streamline service. Processing begins after submission, with routine service taking 6-8 weeks and expedited options available for an extra fee. Always confirm requirements in advance, as facilities may have varying capacities or temporary changes.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities around Greensburg tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start busy as people catch up from the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can draw crowds due to lunch-hour visits. Weekends may offer lighter traffic at select spots, but availability varies.

To plan effectively, schedule appointments online or by phone where possible to avoid long waits—aim for early morning or late afternoon slots. Travel off-peak if flexible, and double-check facility status for holidays or events. Arrive prepared with all documents organized to minimize delays, and consider applying well before your travel date to account for processing times and potential mailing hiccups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a passport without an appointment in Greensburg?
No, both local facilities require appointments due to high demand. Book online or call early.[4][5]

How long does it take to get an Indiana birth certificate for my passport?
Routine: 2–4 weeks by mail; walk-in at state office faster. Expedite for fee.[8]

My passport photo was rejected—what now?
Retake immediately meeting exact specs (no shadows/glare). Facilities often provide on-site.[9]

What's the difference between expedited service and urgent travel?
Expedited shortens routine to 2–3 weeks anywhere; urgent (14 days) requires agency visit with travel proof.[1][6]

Can I renew my child's passport by mail?
No, all minors under 16 must apply in person with parents.[3]

What if my passport is lost while traveling from Indiana?
Report via DS-64 online; apply for replacement upon return or at embassy abroad.[2]

Do I need a passport card for cruises from Indiana ports?
Yes for closed-loop cruises to Mexico/Caribbean; book or card both work.[1]

Where do I track my application status?
Online at travel.state.gov after receiving notice (7–10 days).[11]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - U.S. Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[3]U.S. Department of State - Children Under 16
[4]USPS - Passport Services
[5]Decatur County Government - Clerk's Office
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies
[7]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply - Identification
[8]Indiana Department of Health - Vital Records
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[10]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[11]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status