Terre Haute, IN Passport Guide: Facilities, Forms, Fees & Tips

Getting a Passport in Terre Haute, IN

Terre Haute, located in Vigo County, Indiana, is home to Indiana State University, which drives significant student and exchange program travel, alongside business trips and tourism from the Wabash Valley region. Residents frequently travel internationally for work, family visits, or vacations, with peaks in spring and summer for breaks and holidays, plus winter escapes. This creates high demand at local passport acceptance facilities, especially during these seasons, leading to limited appointment slots. Last-minute trips for emergencies or opportunities are common, but urgent processing isn't guaranteed amid backlogs. Whether you're a first-time applicant, renewing an expired passport, or replacing a lost one, understanding the process helps navigate these realities. Always verify details on official sites, as requirements can update.[1]

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing the right path saves time and avoids rejections. Here's how to decide:

• First-time passport: Use Form DS-11. Required if you've never had a U.S. passport.[1]
• Renewal: Eligible if your previous passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, and is undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person appearance needed.[1]
• Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged: If eligible for renewal, use DS-82 by mail. Otherwise, treat as first-time with DS-11 in person.[1]
• Name change, correction, or multiple passports: Specific forms like DS-5504 or DS-82 with documents.[1]
• Child (under 16): Always DS-11 in person, with both parents/guardians present or notarized consent.[1]

Students at Indiana State University or exchange visitors often need first-time or child passports. Business travelers renewing might qualify for mail-in, but check eligibility carefully—using the wrong form is a top rejection reason.[1] Use the State Department's online wizard for confirmation.[2]

Passport Requirements and Documentation

Gather these before applying to prevent delays, a frequent issue with incomplete minor applications or missing proofs.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original + photocopy):

• Certified U.S. birth certificate (issued by city/county/vital records—Indiana issues via state office).[3]
• Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or previous undamaged passport.

Proof of Identity (original + photocopy):

• Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Vigo County residents can get IDs via BMV.[4]

Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo, taken within 6 months. No selfies—use pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS in Terre Haute.[1]

For Minors:

• Both parents' IDs and presence, or DS-3053 notarized consent from absent parent.
• Parental relationship proof (birth certificate listing parents).[1]

Photocopies must be on plain white 8.5x11 paper, front/back if two-sided. Indiana birth certificates cost $15+; order expedited from vital records if needed.[3] High demand means facilities reject incomplete apps on-site.

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Terre Haute

Terre Haute has several U.S. Post Office locations as acceptance facilities—no county clerk offers this service in Vigo County. Appointments are required; book via usps.com or call. Demand surges in spring/summer and winter, so schedule early—walk-ins are rare.[5]

Key locations:

• Terre Haute Main Post Office: 500 S 3rd St, Terre Haute, IN 47807. Phone: (812) 234-2281. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm for passports.[5]
• Terre Haute South Post Office: 3601 S US Highway 41, Terre Haute, IN 47802. Phone: (812) 898-2995.[5]
• Riley Post Office (nearby): 5147 E National Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47805. Phone: (812) 877-0272.[5]

Search the full list and book at the State Department's locator.[6] Facilities verify documents but don't process—apps go to the National Passport Center. No routine service at Indiana State University.

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

Use this checklist for first-time, child, or replacement passports requiring appearance. Complete Form DS-11 online but print unsigned.[2]

1. Determine eligibility: Confirm first-time/renewal via wizard.[2]
2. Gather documents: Citizenship proof (original + copy), ID (original + copy), photo, minor forms if applicable.[1]
3. Fill forms: DS-11 (unsigned), DS-3053/DS-64 for minors/expedite.[1]
4. Book appointment: Call or online at chosen facility.[5]
5. Pay fees: See fees section—exact cash/check/money order; cards at some USPS.[5]
6. Attend appointment: Arrive 15min early. Do NOT sign DS-11 until instructed. Facility seals envelope.
7. Track status: Online after 7-10 days.[7]
8. Receive passport: Mail (6-8 weeks routine) or pickup if expedited at agency (not local).[1]

Renewal by Mail Checklist (DS-82):

1. Eligible? Last passport <15yrs, age 16+ at issue, signature passport.[1]
2. Complete DS-82, include old passport, photo, check to "U.S. Department of State".
3. Mail to address on form (no appointment).[1]
4. Track online.[7]

Print and check off—common errors like unsigned forms cause returns.

Passport Photos: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Photo rejections waste time, especially with shadows/glare from Terre Haute's variable lighting. Specs:[1]

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1.375 inches.
• White/cream/off-white background.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, full face view.
• No glasses (unless medical), hats (unless religious), uniforms.
• Recent (6 months), color, high-res print.

Local options: Walgreens (multiple Terre Haute locations), CVS, or UPS Store. Cost ~$15. Selfies fail dimensions—pro rejected rate high during peaks.[1] Check sample photos.[8]

Fees and Payment

Fees unchanged recently; verify.[1]

Pay passport fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee separate to facility (cash/check at USPS).[5] Expedite adds $19.53 mailing if chosen.[1] No refunds for errors.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks door-to-door (facility to receipt).[1] Peaks (spring/summer, winter breaks) add 2-4 weeks—no guarantees. Business travelers or students with exchange deadlines face urgent needs.

• Expedited (2-3 weeks): +$60, select at app, blue check to "U.S. Department of State".[1]
• Urgent (14 days or less): Life/death emergency only—call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment at regional agency (e.g., Chicago, not local).[9] Not for vacations or routine trips; confusion common.
• 1-2 day rush: Private couriers post-approval, extra cost.[1]

Track weekly.[7] Avoid relying on last-minute during high-volume seasons like ISU breaks.

Special Considerations for Terre Haute Residents

• Students/Exchanges: ISU international programs advise 3-6 months lead time. First-timers common.
• Minors: Vigo County parents often miss consent forms—get notarized early (banks/USPS).
• Birth Certificates: Order from Indiana Dept of Health if lost.[3]
• Business/Seasonal Travel: Book appts 4-6 weeks ahead; renewals ideal for eligibles.

Common Challenges and Tips

High demand limits Terre Haute USPS slots—book ASAP via phone/app. Photo issues (glare from indoor lights) reject 20-30% apps.[1] Wrong forms (DS-82 vs DS-11) or incomplete minors docs return apps. Peak seasons overwhelm; plan ahead. No local rush— nearest agencies in Indianapolis/Chicago.[9]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Terre Haute

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications. These include public venues such as post offices, county clerks' offices, libraries, and municipal buildings. They do not produce passports on-site; instead, they review your completed forms, verify your identity, administer oaths, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Expect a straightforward process: arrive with two passport photos, a valid photo ID, proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate), and the required fees. Most facilities handle both first-time and renewal applications for adults and minors, though some may have restrictions on expedited services.

In Terre Haute and surrounding areas like Vigo County and nearby communities, several such facilities serve residents. These are typically found in central post offices, government centers, and public libraries. Rural spots in adjacent counties may offer additional options, making it convenient for those traveling from places like Sullivan or Clay counties. Always confirm eligibility and requirements through the official State Department website before visiting, as participation can vary.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as spring break, summer vacations, and holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, when demand surges. Mondays tend to be crowded due to weekend backlogs, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently experience rushes from lunch-hour walk-ins. To navigate this, schedule appointments where available—many facilities now offer online booking to secure a slot. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays for shorter waits. Travel off-peak if possible, bring all documents prepped to avoid delays, and have backups like extra photos. Patience is key; processing can take 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited, so apply well in advance of travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I expedite a first-time passport application in Terre Haute?
Yes, add $60 at acceptance facility, but still 2-3 weeks total. Not available locally for 1-2 days.[1]

How do I renew my passport if I live in Terre Haute?
If eligible, mail DS-82 from home—no local visit. Include old passport.[1]

What if my child passport is needed urgently for a family trip?
Both parents must appear or consent; expedite helps but plan 2-3 weeks min. True emergencies (death) qualify for agency appt.[1][9]

Where do I get a birth certificate in Vigo County?
From Indiana Vital Records online/mail/in-person Indianapolis; local health dept for recent births.[3]

Do Terre Haute post offices take walk-ins for passports?
No, appointments only due to volume. Book early, especially pre-summer.[5]

How long does it take to get a passport during spring break rush?
Routine 6-8+ weeks; delays common. Avoid last-minute.[1]

Can I track my application status?
Yes, after 7-10 days at travel.state.gov.[7]

Is there a passport service at Vigo County Clerk or Indiana State University?
No; only USPS in area. ISU refers to post offices.[5]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - U.S. Passports
[2]State Department Passport Wizard
[3]Indiana Department of Health - Vital Records
[4]Indiana BMV - Identification Cards
[5]USPS Passport Services
[6]State Department Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[7]State Department Application Status Tracker
[8]State Department Passport Photo Examples
[9]State Department Urgent Travel Information