Getting a Passport in Colby, KS: Facilities, Fees, Steps

By GovComplete Team • Published on: January 27, 2026

Location: Colby, KS

Getting a Passport in Colby, KS

Residents of Colby in Thomas County, Kansas, often need passports for frequent international business trips to Europe and Latin America, family tourism to Mexico or Canada, or seasonal getaways during spring and summer peaks or winter breaks. Kansas sees higher volumes of student exchange programs to Asia and Europe, as well as urgent last-minute travel for family emergencies or work. With growing demand at acceptance facilities, planning ahead is key to avoid delays, especially during busy periods when appointments fill quickly.[1]

This guide covers everything from determining your service type to application steps, tailored to Colby-area options. High demand in rural Kansas counties like Thomas can limit slots at local post offices or clerks, so book early. Always verify details on official sites, as rules change.[1]

Choosing the Right Passport Service

Before starting, identify if you need a first-time passport, renewal, replacement, or new book/card. Mischoosing leads to rejections and wasted time—common in Kansas where renewal confusion delays urgent business travel.

First-Time Applicants: Use Form DS-11. Required if you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or over 15 years ago. All ages apply in person at an acceptance facility like the Colby Post Office.[1][2]
Renewals: Eligible if your passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, undamaged, and in your current name. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person needed, saving time for Colby's frequent travelers.[1][3]
Replacements: For lost, stolen, or damaged passports. Use DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (mail if eligible). Report loss immediately via Form DS-64 online.[1][4]
Additional Book/Card: Existing passport holders can add a passport card (land/sea travel only) via DS-82 by mail.[1]

For name changes (e.g., marriage), bring proof. Minors under 16 always use DS-11 with both parents.[5] Kansas college students on exchange programs often renew by mail to fit tight schedules.

Service Type	Form	Method	Best For Colby Residents
First-Time	DS-11	In Person	New travelers, minors
Renewal	DS-82	Mail	Recent passports, business pros
Replacement	DS-11 or DS-82	In Person or Mail	Lost/damaged, if eligible
Passport Card Add-On	DS-82	Mail	Frequent Mexico drives

Use the State Department's wizard to confirm: travel.state.gov/passport-wizard.[1]

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Colby and Thomas County

Colby lacks a passport agency (nearest in Denver or Kansas City), so use acceptance facilities for DS-11 submissions. These include:

Colby Post Office (320 E 5th St, Colby, KS 67701): Offers appointments; call (785) 460-4011. Popular for its convenience but books up during summer tourism surges.[6]
Thomas County Clerk's Office (300 N Court St, Colby, KS 67701): Handles DS-11; contact (785) 460-3400. Good for locals with county records nearby.[7]

Search all Kansas facilities: iafdb.travel.state.gov.[8] Rural Thomas County demand spikes with wheat harvest travel and student breaks, so schedule 4-6 weeks ahead. No walk-ins—appointments required.[1]

For life-or-death emergencies within 14 days, contact the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778).[1]

Required Documents and Proof of Citizenship

Gather originals—no photocopies for primary ID. Kansas vital records office issues birth certificates quickly online or by mail.[9]

U.S. Citizens Provide One of:

U.S. birth certificate (long-form preferred; hospital short forms often rejected).[9]
Naturalization Certificate (Form N-550).
Previous U.S. passport.

Proof of Parental Relationship for Minors: Full birth certificates showing parents' names.[5]

ID (One Primary):

Driver's license (Kansas OK).
Military ID.
Government employee ID.

Photocopy front/back of ID. Name mismatches? Bring legal proof (marriage certificate).[1]

Common pitfall: Incomplete minor docs delay family trips. Order Kansas birth records at kdhe.ks.gov.[9]

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections.[1] Specs: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses/selfies.[10]

Colby Options:

Walmart Photo (1920 S Range Ave): $16.50; quick but check glare.[11]
CVS Pharmacy (1050 W 4th St): $16.99; appointment recommended.[12]
Local studios via USPS locator.[6]

Challenges: Shadows from hats/lighting, glare on glasses, wrong size. Kansas sunlight causes glare issues—use indoor neutral light. Print on matte paper; no uniforms.[10]

Fees and Payment

Pay acceptance facility fees separately (check/money order; ~$35).[1]

Execution Fees (to Facility):

Adult DS-11: $35
Minor DS-11: $35

Passport Fees (to State Dept; check/money order):

Book (adult): $130 + $30 fee
Card (adult): $30 + $30 fee
Minor book: $100 + $35 fee

Expedite: +$60 (2-3 weeks).[13] Overnight return: +$21.10.[1]

Total adult first-time book: ~$195. See full table: travel.state.gov/fees.[13]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail time included). Peaks (spring/summer, winter) stretch to 10+ weeks—don't count on it for last-minute trips.[1]

Expedited (2-3 weeks): +$60, for travel 3-6 weeks out. Confusion arises: "Urgent travel" within 14 days needs agency appointment, not just expedite.[14]

Kansas business travelers to urgent meetings often pay for expedite, but no guarantees during holidays. Track status online.[15]

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time Adult (DS-11)

Confirm Eligibility: Use wizard; gather birth certificate, ID, photocopy.[1]
Get Photo: Meet specs; 2x2, recent.[10]
Fill Form DS-11: Online autofill, print single-sided, do not sign until instructed.[2]
Book Appointment: Call Colby PO or Thomas Clerk; arrive 15 min early.[6][7]
Pay Fees: Two checks/money orders.[13]
Submit In Person: Sign in presence of agent; get receipt.
Track: 7-10 days post-submission at travel.state.gov.[15]
Pickup/Mail: Per receipt; allow extra for rural KS mail.

For Renewals (DS-82 by Mail):

Confirm eligibility.[3]
Complete DS-82, attach old passport, photo, fees.
Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[3]

Minors Checklist Addition: Both parents/guardians present or notarized consent (Form DS-3053).[5]

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Under 16: Both parents required, or sole custody proof. No renewals by mail. Exchange students from Kansas universities like Fort Hays State often apply together—book group slots if available. Incomplete docs reject 40% of minor apps.[5]

Common Challenges and Tips for Colby Residents

Limited Appointments: Thomas County's facilities overload in summer (wheat tourism) and winter breaks. Book 1-2 months early; use USPS online scheduler.[6]
Expedite vs. Urgent: Expedite ≠ 14-day travel. For true emergencies, call NPIC.[14]
Photo Rejects: DIY fails—use pros. Glare common in KS lighting.[10]
Docs: Order birth certs early from KDHE (processing 1-4 weeks).[9]
Seasonal Peaks: Spring (Europe trips), summer (family vacays), winter (Mexico escapes) double wait times.

Track holidays; avoid submitting Fridays.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Colby

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, often found at post offices, county clerks' offices, libraries, or municipal buildings, do not process passports themselves. Instead, staff verify your identity, administer the oath, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing, which can take several weeks to months depending on demand and service selected.

In and around Colby, several such facilities serve residents and visitors, typically within the city limits or nearby towns. These spots handle standard passport books and cards, but availability for specialized services like expedited processing or children's applications may vary. Always confirm eligibility and requirements via the official State Department website before visiting, as not every location offers all services. Expect a straightforward process: arrive with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form, two passport photos, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment (check or money order for the government fee, plus any execution fee). Applications are by appointment in many cases, and walk-ins may face waits.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Facilities around Colby tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start busy as people catch up from the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can draw crowds from nearby workers and families. To minimize delays, schedule appointments online where possible, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits, or opt for less hectic weekdays like Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Check facility websites or call ahead for current protocols, as volumes can fluctuate with local events or backlogs. Planning 8-12 weeks in advance is wise, especially during high season, to avoid rush fees or travel disruptions.

Bring all documents organized in a folder for efficiency, and consider mailing renewals if eligible to bypass lines altogether. Local chambers of commerce or tourism offices can point to nearby options without specifics. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Colby?
No, nearest agencies are in Denver (4+ hours). Routine/expedite only via mail.[1]

What's the difference between passport book and card?
Book: Air/sea worldwide. Card: Land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean—ideal for Colby drives to Mexico.[1]

How long before travel should I apply?
8-11 weeks routine; 5-7 expedite. Peak seasons add 2 weeks—no last-minute promises.[1]

My passport expired 10 years ago—can I renew?
Yes, if issued at 16+ and undamaged. Use DS-82.[3]

What if I lose my passport abroad?
Contact U.S. embassy; apply for emergency.[16]

Do I need an appointment at Colby Post Office?
Yes, call ahead. Walk-ins rare during high demand.[6]

Can I use a Kansas REAL ID for passport ID?
Yes, driver's license suffices.[1]

Sources

Aaron Kramer

Passport Services Expert & Founder

Aaron Kramer is the founder of GovComplete and a passport services expert with over 15 years of experience in the U.S. passport industry. Throughout his career, Aaron has helped thousands of travelers navigate the complexities of passport applications, renewals, and expedited processing. His deep understanding of State Department regulations, acceptance facility operations, and emergency travel documentation has made him a trusted resource for both first-time applicants and seasoned travelers. Aaron's mission is to make government services accessible and stress-free for everyone.

15+ Years Experience Expedited Processing State Dept. Regulations