Getting a Passport in Girard, KS: Steps, Facilities & Forms

Getting a Passport in Girard, KS

Residents of Girard, Kansas, in Crawford County, often need passports for international business trips to Canada or Europe, family vacations during spring break or summer peaks, winter escapes to Mexico or the Caribbean, student exchange programs, or urgent last-minute travel due to family emergencies. Kansas sees higher volumes of passport applications during these seasonal periods and school breaks, leading to limited appointments at local facilities [1]. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step process tailored to Girard-area applicants, drawing from official U.S. Department of State requirements. Always verify details on government sites, as rules can update.

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing the right service prevents delays and extra trips. Use this section to match your situation.

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, or your previous one was issued when you were under 16 or more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. This rule also covers all children under 16, even if replacing a prior passport. You cannot mail, renew online, or use DS-82 for these cases—DS-11 requires execution at a passport acceptance facility.

Practical Steps for Kansas Residents (e.g., Girard area):

• Download Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov (print single-sided; do not fill or sign it beforehand).
• Gather originals: Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad—no photocopies), valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID), one identical photocopy of ID on standard paper, and one 2x2-inch color passport photo (white background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1⅜ inches; avoid selfies or uniforms).
• Both parents/guardians must appear with children under 16, or provide notarized consent Form DS-3053.
• Fees: $130+ application (check to U.S. Department of State), plus $35 execution fee (cash/check/credit varies by facility); add $60 for expedited if needed within 2-3 weeks.
• Schedule ahead—small-town Kansas facilities often have limited hours/slots; arrive early with all docs organized.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Pre-signing DS-11 (invalidates it—sign only when sworn in front of agent).
• Submitting expired/lost old passport without Form DS-64 (for reporting lost/stolen).
• Wrong photo (too dark, smiling, glasses reflections—use local pharmacies like CVS/Walgreens for $15-20).
• Forgetting photocopy of ID or secondary ID if primary lacks photo.
• Underestimating rural travel time or holidays/weekends when facilities close.

Decision Guidance:

• First-time? Definitely DS-11.
• Old passport? Flip to page with issue/expiration dates: Under 16 at issue or >15 years old? DS-11. Otherwise, check DS-82 renewal eligibility (mailed, easier).
• Lost/stolen/urgent? Still DS-11; note on form and add DS-64. For life/death emergencies, call 1-877-487-2778 for options.
• Verify eligibility at travel.state.gov/passport to save a trip. Processing: 6-8 weeks routine, 2-3 expedited (plus 1-2 week delivery).

Passport Renewal

Renew by mail if your most recent passport:

• Was issued when you were 16 or older.
• Was issued within the last 15 years.
• Is undamaged and in your possession.

Use Form DS-82. Do not use this if your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged [3]. Renewals can take 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited.

Passport Replacement (Lost, Stolen, or Damaged)

Report it lost/stolen with Form DS-64, then apply for a replacement. If in possession but damaged, submit it with a new DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (if eligible for mail) [4]. Expedited options apply for urgent needs.

For name changes or corrections, additional evidence like marriage certificates is required [5]. Minors always require in-person applications with parental consent.

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals and photocopies (black-and-white, single-sided, on standard paper). Key items:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (long-form preferred), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Kansas birth certificates can be ordered from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Vital Records [6]. Order early—processing takes 3-5 business days standard, or 24 hours expedited.

• Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. Kansas REAL ID-compliant licenses work well [7].

• Application Form: DS-11 (in person), DS-82 (mail renewal). Download from travel.state.gov [2][3].

• One Passport Photo: 2x2 inches, color, white background, taken within 6 months. No selfies or copies [8].

• Fees: Paid separately—check or money order to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee ($130 adult book first-time; $30 child), execution fee ($35 at acceptance facilities), and optional expedited ($60) or 1-2 day delivery ($21.36) [9].

Photocopy all documents; facilities provide this service sometimes.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Kansas applicants frequently face photo rejections due to shadows from overhead lights, glare on glasses, incorrect head size (50-69% of photo), or wrong dimensions. Use a professional service like CVS, Walgreens, or USPS (many offer for $15) [8]. Specs:

• Head centered, facing camera directly.
• Neutral expression, eyes open.
• No uniforms, hats (unless religious/medical), or headphones.
• Recent—no braces visible if installed over 2 years ago.

Local options in Girard: Check Walmart Photo Center in nearby Pittsburg (20 minutes drive) or AAA if member [10]. Rejections delay processing by weeks.

Where to Apply in Girard and Crawford County

Girard lacks a passport agency (nearest in Kansas City, MO, for life-or-death emergencies within 14 days) [11]. Use acceptance facilities for routine applications:

• Girard Post Office: 115 N Summit St, Girard, KS 66743. (620) 724-3493. Offers passport services; call for appointments due to high spring/summer demand [12].

• Crawford County Register of Deeds: 111 E Forest Ave, Girard, KS 66743. (620) 724-6116. Handles passports; confirm hours [13].

• Nearby: Pittsburg Post Office (1201 E 600th Ave, Pittsburg, KS) or Crawford County Clerk for backups [12].

Search the official locator for updates: iafdb.travel.state.gov [1]. Book appointments early—slots fill fast during Kansas travel peaks like summer and winter breaks. Walk-ins rare.

Mail renewals directly to the address on DS-82 [3]. Track status at travel.state.gov [14].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Girard

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and process new passport applications, renewals, and related documents. These sites do not issue passports on the spot; instead, they verify your identity, administer oaths, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for final processing, which can take several weeks. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Girard, such facilities are typically found in nearby post offices, government administrative centers, and community libraries within a short driving distance, often in surrounding towns and counties.

When visiting an acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form for first-time applicants (or DS-82 for renewals), two passport photos meeting specific size and quality standards, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—usually a combination of checks or money orders made payable to the U.S. Department of State. Expect a short interview to confirm details, and note that children under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians. Facilities may require appointments, so verify availability through official channels like the State Department's website locator tool. Processing times vary, but expedited services are available for an extra fee if travel is imminent.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer months and holidays, as well as on Mondays and mid-day hours when local traffic peaks. To avoid long waits, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and consider off-peak seasons. Always check for appointment options in advance, as walk-ins can face delays. Plan at least 10-13 weeks ahead for standard processing, or use expedited services if needed. Use the official passport website to confirm facility details and prepare thoroughly to streamline your visit.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or Minor Applications

Follow this checklist precisely to minimize errors, a common issue in high-demand areas like eastern Kansas.

1. Determine Eligibility: Confirm first-time, minor, or replacement needs DS-11 (in person).

2. Gather Documents:

   • Original citizenship proof + photocopy.
   • Valid photo ID + photocopy.
   • Parental IDs/birth certificates for minors.
   • Court order if sole custody.

3. Complete Form DS-11: Fill out but do not sign until instructed at facility [2].

4. Get Photos: Professional 2x2 photo meeting specs [8].

5. Calculate Fees: Application to State Dept; execution fee to facility. Cash/check accepted variably—call ahead.

6. Book Appointment: Call Girard Post Office or County office. Arrive 15 minutes early.

7. Attend In-Person: Sign form, submit all items. Get receipt with tracking number.

8. Track Progress: Use online tool after 5-7 days [14].

9. Plan for Delays: Add 2 weeks buffer for peak seasons.

For renewals: Skip steps 3/6/7; mail completed DS-82.

Processing Times and Expedited Services

Standard processing: 6-8 weeks (postmark to receipt). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). No hard guarantees—holidays and peaks (Kansas spring/summer, winter breaks) add delays [9].

Urgent travel within 14 days? Call the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778) for appointments at agencies, but only life-or-death [11]. Confusion arises: Expedited ≠ same-day; urgent is separate. Do not rely on last-minute processing during busy periods—apply 9+ weeks early.

Kansas business travelers and students often need expedited for conferences or programs; add overnight delivery for return ($21.36).

Special Considerations for Minors

All under 16 require DS-11 in person with both parents/guardians present (or notarized consent from absent parent) [15]. Common pitfalls: Incomplete consent forms or missing birth certificates. Exchange students from Girard High should apply 3-6 months ahead.

Common Challenges for Girard Residents

High demand at local facilities means booking weeks out. Seasonal surges from tourism and breaks overwhelm slots. Photo issues reject 20-30% of apps [8]. Minors' docs often incomplete. Renewals mistakenly filed as new. Vital records delays from KDHE if ordering late [6]. Business/urgent trips spike errors—always verify forms.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Passport Renewals by Mail

1. Confirm Eligibility: Last passport <15 years, age 16+, undamaged, in possession.

2. Complete DS-82: Online or print; sign [3].

3. Gather Items: Old passport, photo, citizenship proof if needed (rare), fees.

4. Photocopy Everything: Include old passport page with number.

5. Mail Securely: Priority Express to address on form. Track it.

6. Track Online: After 5-7 days [14].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a passport from Girard, KS?
Standard 6-8 weeks, expedited 2-3 weeks. Peak seasons longer—no guarantees [9].

Can I get a passport photo taken in Girard?
Yes, try local pharmacies or drive to Pittsburg Walmart. Specs strict [8].

What if my travel is in 2 weeks?
Expedite and call 1-877-487-2778 for urgent slots if qualifying emergency [11].

Do I need an appointment at Girard Post Office?
Yes, highly recommended—call (620) 724-3493 due to demand [12].

How do I replace a lost passport?
File DS-64 online, then new DS-11/DS-82 with police report if abroad [4].

Where do I get a Kansas birth certificate for my application?
Order from KDHE Vital Records online/mail; expedited available [6].

Can I renew a child's passport by mail?
No—always in-person DS-11 until age 16 [15].

Is there a passport agency near Girard?
Nearest in Kansas City (3+ hours); for emergencies only [11].

Sources

[1]U.S. Passports & International Travel
[2]Form DS-11
[3]Form DS-82
[4]Lost or Stolen Passport
[5]Corrections, Name Changes
[6]Kansas Vital Statistics - Birth Certificates
[7]Kansas DMV REAL ID
[8]Passport Photo Requirements
[9]Passport Fees
[10]USPS Passport Photos
[11]Passport Agencies
[12]USPS Location Finder
[13]Crawford County KS Official Site
[14]Check Application Status
[15]Passports for Children