Getting a Passport in Sullivan, IN: Facilities, Steps & Tips

Getting a Passport in Sullivan, Indiana

Residents of Sullivan, Indiana, in Sullivan County, often need passports for frequent international business travel, tourism during busy spring and summer seasons or winter breaks, student exchange programs, and occasional last-minute trips. Indiana sees higher volumes of these travels, which can strain local acceptance facilities during peak times, leading to limited appointment availability. This guide covers everything from determining your needs to application steps, helping you navigate common pitfalls like photo rejections due to shadows or glare, incomplete minor documentation, and confusion over renewal forms or expedited services.[1]

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Before starting, identify your situation to use the correct process and form. Misusing a form, such as submitting a first-time application for a renewal, is a top reason for delays.[2]

• First-Time Passport: Use if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16. Requires an in-person application at an acceptance facility.[1]
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're at least 16, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Most can renew by mail using Form DS-82, saving a trip to Sullivan facilities.[2] Not eligible? Treat as first-time.
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Use Form DS-64 to report, then DS-11 (in-person) or DS-82 (mail if eligible) for reissue. Expedited options apply.[3]
• Name Change or Data Correction: Minor corrections may use DS-5504 by mail; major changes often need DS-11 in-person.[4]
• Child (Under 16): Always in-person with both parents/guardians; more documents required.[5]

For urgent travel within 14 days, note that "expedited" service (2-3 weeks) differs from "urgent" in-person at a passport agency (available only for life-or-death emergencies or travel <14 days with proof).[6] High demand in Indiana means last-minute processing isn't reliable during peaks—plan ahead.

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Sullivan

Sullivan has limited facilities due to its size, so book early, especially spring/summer or holidays when Indiana travel spikes. Use the official locator for hours and appointments.[7]

• Sullivan Post Office (109 S Court St, Sullivan, IN 47882): Offers passport acceptance by appointment. Call (812) 268-4226 to confirm slots; walk-ins rare during busy seasons.[7]
• Sullivan County Clerk's Office (Sullivan County Courthouse, 100 N Main St, Sullivan, IN 47882): Accepts applications weekdays; contact (812) 268-5313 for details. Popular for locals but books up fast.[8]

Nearby options (within 30 miles):

• Terre Haute Post Offices or Vigo County Clerk (e.g., 1850 E Main St, Terre Haute, IN).
• Always verify via USPS tool, as availability changes.[7]

No passport agencies in Sullivan County—nearest is Chicago or Indianapolis for urgent services (appointment-only).[6]

Required Documents and Forms

Gather everything upfront to avoid rejections. Download forms from the State Department; print single-sided.[9]

For First-Time or In-Person Applications (DS-11):

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (original + photocopy): Certified U.S. birth certificate (Indiana issues via Vital Records), naturalization certificate, or previous passport.[10][11]
• Proof of identity (original + photocopy): Driver's license, military ID, or government ID.
• Passport photo (see below).
• For minors: Both parents' IDs/presence, parental consent form, or court order.[5]

Renewals (DS-82, Mail): Old passport, photo, ID photocopy.

Indiana birth certificates: Order from Indiana Department of Health if needed ($15 + shipping).[11] Common issue: Photocopies must match originals exactly in size.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections in high-volume areas like Indiana.[12] Specs are strict:

• 2x2 inches, color, on white/cream background.
• Taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches (eye level).
• No glare, shadows, uniforms, hats (unless religious/medical), glasses (unless medically necessary with no glare).[12]

Where to Get Photos:

• CVS/Walgreens in Sullivan/Terre Haute (digital review helps).
• USPS or acceptance facilities (some offer on-site).
• Selfies/digital uploads rejected—use professional service.[12]

Pro tip: Check sample photos online; test lighting to prevent shadows from Indiana's variable weather.[12]

Fees and Payment

Pay separately: Application fee (check/money order to "U.S. Department of State") + acceptance/execution fee (cash/check/card at facility).[13]

Add $19.53 for passport card if needed. No fee promises—times vary.[1]

Processing Times and Expedited Service

Routine: 6-8 weeks (do not rely on this for travel).[1] Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60).[1] Urgent (<14 days): Passport agency only with itinerary/proof; high Indiana demand means slots fill fast—avoid peaks.[6]

Track status online after 7-10 days.[14] Warning: Peak seasons (spring/summer, winter breaks) see surges from Indiana business/tourism/students; apply 9+ weeks early.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time/Child In-Person Application

Use this checklist to prepare for Sullivan Post Office or County Clerk. Total time: 30-60 min on-site.

1. Determine eligibility: Confirm first-time/renewal/replacement via State Department tool.[2]
2. Fill Form DS-11: Complete but do not sign until instructed. Download from official site.[9]
3. Gather citizenship proof: Original birth certificate (Indiana Vital Records if needed) + front/back photocopy on standard paper.[10][11]
4. Prepare ID proof: Valid photo ID + photocopy.[1]
5. Get compliant photo: 2x2, recent, no issues—review specs twice.[12]
6. For minors: Both parents/guardians present with IDs; DS-3053 consent if one absent; divorce decree/custody papers.[5]
7. Calculate fees: Two payments ready (e.g., check for State, cash for acceptance).[13]
8. Book appointment: Call facility 4-6 weeks ahead, especially peaks.[7]
9. Arrive early: Bring all originals/photocopies. Sign DS-11 on-site.
10. Submit and track: Get receipt; enter number online after 7 days.[14]

Photocopy Reminder: One set, same size as original (8.5x11).[1]

Renewals by Mail: Simpler Option

If eligible:

1. Complete DS-82.[2]
2. Attach old passport, photo, check ($130).
3. Mail to address on form instructions.[2] Common error: Using DS-11 instead—check eligibility quiz.[2]

Special Cases: Minors and Urgent Travel

Minors: Presence of both parents mandatory unless Form DS-3053 notarized or court docs provided. Incomplete docs frequent in student exchanges.[5]

Urgent Trips: Proof of travel (flight itinerary, hotel) required for agency. Indiana's business travelers note: Expedited ≠ guaranteed under 14 days.[6]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Sullivan

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for processing. These sites do not issue passports themselves but play a crucial role in the initial application step. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Sullivan, such facilities are typically scattered across the city and nearby towns, offering convenient access for residents and visitors alike. Surrounding areas may have additional options in neighboring communities, providing flexibility depending on your location.

When visiting a passport acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 application form (for new passports or renewals if ineligible for mail-in), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting State Department specifications, and the required fees payable by check or money order. Agents at these facilities will review your documents, administer the oath, collect signatures, and seal the application in an official envelope for forwarding to a passport agency or center. Expect a short wait for processing on-site, which usually takes 15-30 minutes if all paperwork is in order. Not all locations offer expedited services or photo-taking, so verify general capabilities in advance through official resources.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer months, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Weekdays, especially Mondays, tend to be busier as people kick off their week with errands. Mid-day hours, around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., frequently experience the heaviest foot traffic due to lunch breaks and standard business schedules.

To navigate crowds effectively, plan visits early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Check for facilities offering appointments, as they can reduce wait times significantly. Arrive with all documents prepped to streamline the process. During high-demand periods, consider less central locations in surrounding areas, which may have shorter lines. Always allow extra time for unexpected delays, and monitor official State Department updates for any regional advisories on processing backlogs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply without an appointment at Sullivan facilities?
No, most require appointments due to high demand; call ahead. Walk-ins may work off-peak but risky.[7]

How long does it take for a passport in Indiana during summer?
Routine 6-8 weeks, but peaks add delays—apply early. No guarantees.[1]

My photo was rejected before—what now?
Check for glare/shadows/dimensions; use State Department samples and professional service.[12]

Where do I get an Indiana birth certificate?
Order from Indiana Vital Records online/mail/in-person ($15).[11]

Can I expedite a renewal?
Yes, add $60 and overnight return envelope, but still 2-3 weeks.[2]

What if my passport is expiring soon for a trip?
Renew early; expired passports unusable even for 6 months remaining myth debunked.[1]

Is Sullivan Post Office open Saturdays for passports?
Typically weekdays only—confirm via USPS locator.[7]

Do I need my Social Security number?
Yes, provide on form (no card needed).[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Renew a Passport
[3]U.S. Department of State - Report a Lost/Stolen Passport
[4]U.S. Department of State - Correct a Passport
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passports for Children
[6]U.S. Department of State - Get a Passport Fast
[7]USPS - Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[8]Sullivan County Government
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[10]U.S. Department of State - Proof of Citizenship
[11]Indiana Department of Health - Vital Records
[12]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[13]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[14]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status