Great Bend KS Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewal, Facilities

Passport Services in Great Bend, KS

Residents of Great Bend in Barton County, Kansas, often need passports for frequent international business travel, family tourism, or seasonal trips during spring/summer vacations and winter breaks. Local students participating in exchange programs and those facing urgent last-minute travel, such as family emergencies abroad, also drive demand. Kansas sees higher volumes during these periods, leading to challenges like limited appointments at acceptance facilities, confusion over expedited options versus true urgent needs (within 14 days of travel), photo rejections from shadows or glare, incomplete paperwork for minors, and errors in renewal eligibility using the wrong form. This guide provides clear, step-by-step help based on official requirements to streamline your process.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before starting, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Applying the wrong way can delay your passport by weeks.

First-Time Passport

If you're in Great Bend, KS, and you've never had a U.S. passport, need one for a child under 16, or your previous passport was issued when you were under 16, you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11. This rule applies even if you have an expired passport that's more than 15 years old—do not attempt to renew it by mail, as it will be rejected.[2]

Quick Decision Guide:

• First-time adult? DS-11 in person.
• Child under 16? DS-11 in person (both parents/guardians typically required).
• Previous passport issued before age 16? DS-11 in person, regardless of expiration.
• Expired >15 years ago? Treat as first-time: DS-11.

Practical Steps:

1. Download and print Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov (fill it out but do not sign until instructed in person).
2. Gather: Original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate—photocopies won't work), valid photo ID, two passport photos (2x2 inches, taken within 6 months at places like pharmacies or photo shops), and fees (checkbook/money order recommended for exact amounts).
3. Locate a nearby acceptance facility (search "passport acceptance facility Kansas" on travel.state.gov—allow extra time for rural travel from Great Bend).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 early (it invalidates the form).
• Using DS-82 renewal form for old/expired/child passports (automatic denial).
• Bringing photocopies instead of originals (originals are returned after processing).
• Forgetting child applications need parental consent proof (e.g., both parents present or notarized form).

Plan ahead—processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee).

Passport Renewal

You may qualify for mail-in renewal with Form DS-82 if:

• Your most recent passport was issued within the last 15 years.
• You were at least 16 when it was issued.
• It's undamaged and in your possession. Renewals are simpler but must meet these criteria exactly—many Great Bend applicants mistakenly use DS-82 for older passports, causing returns.[2]

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Report First with Form DS-64 (Free):
File online immediately at travel.state.gov to notify the State Department and protect against fraud. Include details like passport number, issue date, and circumstances. For theft, get a police report (highly recommended for stronger proof).

Common mistake: Waiting to report—delays can block emergency travel or raise fees.

Choose Your Replacement Form:

• Lost/Stolen: Always use Form DS-11 (in-person new passport application)—DS-82 mail renewal is not allowed.
• Damaged: Use DS-11 if mutilated (e.g., torn pages, water damage); DS-82 only if minor wear and you meet renewal rules (passport issued when 16+, <15 years old, undamaged otherwise).

Decision Guidance: Check eligibility quiz at travel.state.gov/form-finder. Kansas residents (including Great Bend area) apply at passport acceptance facilities—search "passport acceptance facility" on state.gov for locations open by appointment. Expect full first-time fees (~$130+ for book); add $60 expedited if urgent.

Prepare to Avoid Delays:

• Proof of citizenship (original birth certificate or equivalent—previous passport won't suffice if lost).
• Valid photo ID (driver's license, etc.).
• Two identical 2x2" color photos (white background, <6 months old—check specs to avoid rejection).
• DS-64 confirmation.

Common mistake: Photocopies instead of originals, wrong photo specs, or incomplete forms—leads to rescheduling. Apply early; processing takes 6-8 weeks routine, 2-3 expedited.

Additional Passports

For multiple valid passports (e.g., one for visas), use DS-82 if eligible or DS-11 otherwise.[2]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing Your Application

Use this checklist to gather everything before your appointment. Incomplete applications are a top rejection reason in busy Kansas facilities.

1. Complete the Form: Download and fill out DS-11 (first-time/minor) or DS-82 (renewal) but do not sign DS-11 until instructed at the facility. Use black ink; print single-sided.[2]

2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original birth certificate (raised seal) or naturalization certificate. Photocopies on plain paper. Kansas birth certificates for Great Bend births can be ordered from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) or Barton County Health Department. Allow 1-2 weeks for delivery—rush if urgent.[4][5]

3. Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or expired passport (less than 5 years). Name must match citizenship proof exactly.[2]

4. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo taken within 6 months. See photo section below.[6]

5. Parental Consent for Minors: Both parents/guardians for children under 16; DS-3053 if one absent.[2]

6. Fees: Check, money order, or credit/debit (varies by facility). See fees section.[7]

7. Book Appointment: Call ahead—slots fill fast in peak seasons like summer.[1]

Print this checklist and bring it to your appointment.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Submitting Your Application

1. Locate Facility: See local options below. Arrive 15 minutes early with all documents.

2. Present Documents: Hand over unsigned form, originals, photocopies, photo, and fees. Sign DS-11 in front of agent.

3. Pay Fees: Application fee to U.S. Department of State; execution fee to facility.

4. Receive Receipt: Track status online with receipt number.[8]

5. Plan for Delivery: Standard 6-8 weeks; expedited 2-3 weeks. No personal pickup.[1]

Local Passport Acceptance Facilities in Great Bend and Barton County

Great Bend has limited facilities, so book early, especially for spring/summer or winter travel surges.

• Great Bend Post Office
  1207 Main St, Great Bend, KS 67530
  Phone: (620) 793-4211
  Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-4 PM (call to confirm passport hours). Accepts DS-11/DS-82; photos not available on-site.[9]

• Barton County Clerk's Office
  1400 Main St, Suite 110, Great Bend, KS 67530
  Phone: (620) 793-1831
  Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-5 PM. Handles first-time, minors, renewals. Appointments recommended.[10]

Nearby options (within 30 miles):

• Hoisington Post Office: 859 E 1st St, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Use the State Department's locator for updates: travel.state.gov.[1] High demand means walk-ins are rare—schedule via phone or usps.com.[9]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections locally due to glare from Kansas sunlight, shadows from hats/glasses, or wrong size.[6] Specs:

• 2x2 inches (51x51 mm).
• Head 1-1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top.
• White/off-white background.
• Neutral expression, eyes open.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), uniforms, hats (unless religious).
• Color photo <6 months old.[6]

Where to Get Photos in Great Bend:

• Walgreens: 4209 10th St, Great Bend (self-service kiosks, $14.99).[11]
• CVS Pharmacy: 4120 10th St, Great Bend ($14.99).[12]
• Walmart Photo Center: 3500 10th St, Great Bend (affordable, quick).[13]
• FedEx Office: Nearby in Hays (~60 miles) for pro service.

Take photos in natural indoor light; review samples on travel.state.gov.[6]

Fees and Payment Methods

Fees as of 2023 (subject to change):[7]

• First-time/renewal book: $130 adult, $100 child.
• Card: +$30/$35.
• Execution fee: $35 (cash/check/credit at facilities).
• Expedited: +$60.
• 1-2 day urgent: +$22.65 + overnight shipping (life-or-death only).[14]

Pay State Dept. fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution to facility. Post office accepts cards for execution.[9]

Processing Times and Expedited Service

Routine: 6-8 weeks (postmark to delivery). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Peak seasons (spring/summer, winter) add delays—do not rely on last-minute processing.[1] For travel within 14 days:

• Life-or-death emergency: Call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment at regional agency (nearest: Kansas City).[14]
• Urgent non-emergency: Expedite + proof of travel; still no guarantees.

Track at passportstatus.state.gov.[8] Students for exchanges should apply 3+ months early.

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Children under 16 need both parents' presence or notarized consent (DS-3053). Proof of relationship (birth certificate). Higher rejection rates from missing parental docs—common in Kansas exchange programs.[2] No fee waivers.

Obtaining Vital Records in Kansas

Great Bend births: Order from KDHE Vital Statistics online/mail (kdhe.ks.gov).[4] Fee $20 first copy. Rush: +$15, 3-5 days. Local: Barton County Health Department, 625 N Main St, Great Bend (620-793-1910) for older records.[5] Foreign-born: Consulate docs.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Great Bend

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to review and submit passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings, which serve residents of Great Bend and surrounding communities in Barton County and nearby areas like Hoisington, Ellinwood, and Larned. They do not produce passports on-site; instead, they verify your completed application, required identification, photographs, and payment before forwarding everything to a regional passport agency for processing.

When visiting an acceptance facility, expect a straightforward but thorough review process. Bring a completed DS-11 form for new passports (or DS-82 for renewals by mail where eligible), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, two passport photos meeting State Department specifications, and fees payable by check or money order. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Facilities may offer limited assistance with forms but cannot expedite processing beyond standard timelines—typically 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited. Some locations require appointments, while others operate on a walk-in basis; always confirm policies in advance through official channels.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities around Great Bend tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer vacation periods and before major holidays like spring break or Thanksgiving. Mondays often bring crowds from weekend backlog, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are generally busier due to working professionals' schedules. To minimize wait times, consider early morning or late afternoon visits on weekdays, avoiding seasonal peaks when possible. Plan well ahead—apply 3-6 months before travel—and check for appointment availability to streamline your experience. Flexibility and preparation help ensure a smoother process amid fluctuating demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Great Bend?
No. Nearest urgent service is out-of-state agencies for verified emergencies only. Plan ahead.[14]

What if my name changed since my birth certificate?
Provide legal name-change docs (marriage certificate, court order) bridging to current ID.[2]

Is my expired passport from 20 years ago renewable?
No—use DS-11 as first-time.[2]

How do I expedite for a trip in 3 weeks?
Add $60 fee, provide itinerary. Still 2-3 weeks; apply now.[1]

Where do I mail renewals from Great Bend?
National intake: P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155. Use certified mail.[2]

Can I use a copy of my birth certificate?
No—original required; photocopy allowed.[2]

What if my photo is rejected?
Resubmit entire app with new photo; delays 4+ weeks.[6]

Do I need an appointment at the post office?
Yes, call to reserve—walk-ins limited.[9]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Forms
[3]U.S. Department of State - Lost/Stolen Passports
[4]Kansas Department of Health and Environment - Vital Statistics
[5]Barton County Health Department
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[7]U.S. Department of State - Fees
[8]Passport Status Check
[9]USPS Passport Services
[10]Barton County Clerk
[11]Walgreens Passport Photos
[12]CVS Passport Photos
[13]Walmart Photo
[14]U.S. Department of State - Expedited Service

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