How to Get a Passport in Faribault, MN: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a Passport in Faribault, Minnesota

Faribault residents and those in Rice County often need passports for frequent international business trips to Canada or Europe, family tourism during spring and summer peaks, winter escapes to warmer climates, or student exchange programs—especially with nearby colleges like St. Olaf and Carleton in Northfield driving seasonal demand. Last-minute trips for family emergencies or work can add urgency. However, high demand at local facilities leads to limited appointments, particularly in peak seasons like spring break or pre-summer travel. Common pitfalls include photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions; incomplete paperwork for minors; and confusion over renewal forms or expedited options versus true emergencies within 14 days [1]. This guide walks you through the process step by step, citing official requirements to help you prepare effectively.

Minnesota's travel patterns amplify these issues: the state's proximity to international borders boosts business travel, while universities and tourism create surges. Always check availability early—facilities book up fast—and avoid relying on last-minute processing during busy periods, as even expedited services face delays [2].

Choose the Right Passport Service for Your Situation

Before gathering documents, identify your specific need. Using the wrong form or location can cause rejections and restarts.

First-Time Applicants

If you've never held a U.S. passport, you're a child under 16, your previous passport was issued before age 16, or it was issued more than 15 years ago, use Form DS-11 and apply in person at a passport acceptance facility in the Faribault area—no mail or online option exists for this form [1].

Practical clarity: Download DS-11 from travel.state.gov (fill it out by hand, don't sign until instructed). Bring originals: proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate), photo ID (e.g., driver's license), two identical 2x2" passport photos (get them at local pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS—avoid selfies or booth prints), and payment (check, money order, or credit card where accepted). Most local facilities like post offices or county offices require appointments—book online or call 2-4 weeks ahead, especially in summer.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Mailing the DS-11 (it'll be rejected and returned).
• Bringing photocopies instead of originals (delays processing).
• Using expired ID or non-certified birth certificates.
• Forgetting photos or using wrong size/background (must be white/off-white, recent).

Decision guidance:

• Yes to first-time/renewal >15 years/child? → DS-11, in person.
• Have undamaged passport issued after age 16, within 15 years, and can mail it? → Consider DS-82 renewal (faster/cheaper). Search "passport acceptance facility locator" on travel.state.gov for Faribault-area options and hours—aim for weekdays to minimize wait times. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee).

Renewals

Check eligibility first using this quick guide—most Faribault-area residents qualify if:

• You were 16 or older when your last passport was issued.
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It's undamaged, unaltered, and not reported lost or stolen.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Assuming eligibility if your passport is damaged (even minor tears disqualify it—treat as new).
• Using DS-82 if under 16 at issuance (must use DS-11 in person).
• Forgetting a new passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within 6 months; no selfies or old copies—local pharmacies or photo shops in MN handle this reliably).
• Mailing without certified mail/tracking (recommended for security).

If eligible: Download/print Form DS-82 from travel.state.gov. Include your current passport, new photo, payment (check/money order payable to U.S. Department of State; see form for fees), and any name change docs. Mail to the address on DS-82 instructions (standard for MN residents). Some nearby acceptance facilities accept DS-82 in person—call ahead to confirm.

Not eligible? Apply as first-time: Use Form DS-11 in person at a passport acceptance facility (requires ID, photo, fees; appointments often needed in busy seasons).

Quick decision tree:

1. Meet all 3 criteria above? → DS-82 by mail or select facilities.
2. No? → DS-11 in person [1].

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

Quick Decision Guide:

• Lost or stolen: Use Form DS-64 to report it (required before replacement). Pair with a full new passport application (DS-11 for in-person/expedited, DS-82 if eligible for renewal by mail).
• Damaged: Use Form DS-5504 only if issued within the last year—no fee if damage isn't your fault. If over 1 year old or major damage, file a new application instead (cheaper/faster decision).
• Urgent travel? Expedite with extra fee and proof (e.g., itinerary); otherwise, standard processing takes 6-8 weeks.

Steps for All Cases (Start Here):

1. Download free forms from travel.state.gov (search "DS-64" or "DS-5504").
2. Gather: Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate/original passport), photo ID, 2x2" passport photo (recent, white background—many pharmacies print these), fees (check state.gov for current amounts; credit cards accepted in person).
3. For lost/stolen: File a police report first in Faribault (get the report number—it's required for DS-64 and speeds approval).
4. Submit by mail (safer for rural areas like Faribault, use certified mail) to the address on the form, or in person at a nearby passport acceptance facility (call ahead to confirm hours/services).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Skipping the police report for stolen passports (delays replacement by weeks).
• Using DS-5504 for wear/tear over 1 year (get rejected—switch to DS-82/DS-11).
• Poor photos (smiling closed-mouth, no glasses/selfies—retakes waste time).
• Forgetting fees or unsigned forms (automatic return).
• Mailing without photocopies of ID/docs (keep originals safe).

Track status online at passportstatus.state.gov after 1 week. If denied, appeal with more evidence. [1]

Name Changes or Errors

If your U.S. passport was issued less than 1 year ago (check the issuance date on page 2/3 data page) and needs a name correction due to printing error, legal name change (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order), or data error, submit Form DS-5504 for a free correction. No new photo or fee required if correcting your own recent passport.

How to apply (key steps for Faribault-area residents):

1. Download/print Form DS-5504 from travel.state.gov.
2. Gather: current passport, original proof of name change/error (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order—must match exactly), and 2x2 photo if name change (not error).
3. Submit by mail to address on form or in person at a passport acceptance facility (e.g., post office or clerk—use travel.state.gov locator for hours/appointments; book ahead as slots fill fast in smaller MN towns).

If over 1 year since issuance: File a full new application with Form DS-11 (in person only), 1st-time photo, fee (~$130+), and name proof. Expedite if urgent.

Decision guidance:

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Wrong issuance date: Counts from "Date of Issue," not receipt—use calendar calc or app.
• Incomplete docs: MN marriage certs ok, but get certified copies (not photocopies); apostille rarely needed for U.S.
• No photo for changes: Error-only skips it—label envelope clearly.
• Mailing without tracking: Use USPS Priority with insurance for valuables.
• Ignoring child rules: Both parents/guardians needed for minors under 16.

Track status at travel.state.gov. Processing: 4-6 weeks standard; 2-3 expedited (+$60) [1].

Expedited or Urgent Travel

For travel within 14 days, life-or-death emergencies, or foreign military orders, seek in-person urgent service at a passport agency (not local facilities). Nearest: Chicago Passport Agency (over 5 hours away) [2]. Expedited (2-3 weeks) is available at acceptance facilities for an extra fee but doesn't guarantee timelines during peaks [2].

Use the State Department's eligibility tool to confirm: Passport Application Wizard [1].

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Faribault

Rice County has limited facilities, so book appointments promptly via the locator: travel.state.gov/iafdb [3]. Most require appointments; walk-ins are rare.

• Faribault Post Office: 1915 1st Ave NW, Faribault, MN 55021. Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-4 PM (passport services). Phone: (507) 334-6191. Appointments via usps.com [4].
• Rice County Auditor-Treasurer's Office: 318 NW 3rd St, Faribault, MN 55021. Handles passports Mon-Thu by appointment. Phone: (507) 332-6102. Check rice.mn.us [5].
• Nearby Options: Northfield Post Office (15 miles, 1401 4th St NW, Northfield, MN 55057) or Owatonna Post Office (20 miles) for backups [4].

Libraries like Faribault Public Library do not offer acceptance services—confirm via official locator only [3].

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare originals and photocopies (front/back on standard 8.5x11 paper). Missing items lead to denials.

First-Time or DS-11 Checklist:

• Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until in person) [6].
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Certified birth certificate (issued by city/county/state; hospital certificates invalid), naturalization certificate, or previous passport [1]. Order from MN Vital Records if needed ($30+ rush) [7].
• Proof of identity: Driver's license, military ID, or government ID [1].
• Passport photo (see below).
• Parental consent for minors (both parents or court order) [1].

Renewal (DS-82) Checklist:

• Most recent passport.
• New photo.
• Name change docs if applicable [1].

Photocopy all IDs. For minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053) [1].

Passport Photo Requirements

Photos cause 25%+ of rejections. Specs are strict [8]:

• 2x2 inches, color, on white/cream background.
• Taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.
• Neutral expression, eyes open, full face view.
• No glasses (unless medically required), hats, uniforms, shadows, glare, or filters.
• Print on matte/thin paper; digital edits invalid.

Local options: Walmart (115 1st Ave SW, Faribault), CVS (1200 NW 4th St), or Walgreens (120 Central Ave N). Cost: $15-17. Verify with travel.state.gov/photo tool [8].

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow this checklist to minimize errors.

1. Determine eligibility and complete form: Use pptform.state.gov for DS-11/DS-82/etc. Fill out but do not sign DS-11 [6].
2. Gather documents and photocopies: See checklist above. Order birth certificate early (MN processing: 1-2 weeks standard, 5 days rush) [7].
3. Get photo: At pharmacy or studio matching specs [8].
4. Book appointment: Call or online at facility site [3][4].
5. Appear in person: Bring all items. Sign DS-11 on-site. Pay fees.
6. Track status: Online at travel.state.gov after 7-10 days [2].

Mail-in Renewal Checklist (DS-82 only):

1. Complete/sign DS-82 [6].
2. Include old passport, photo, fees (check/money order).
3. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 [1].

Fees and Payment Methods

Fees are non-refundable, even if denied [9]:

• Book (first-time/renewal): $130 adult, $100 minor (under 16).
• Card: $30 adult, $15 minor.
• Execution fee: $35 (at acceptance facilities, cash/check/credit).
• Expedited: +$60.
• 1-2 day delivery: +$21.36 (outgoing only).
• Urgent: Varies at agencies.

Pay passport fees to U.S. Department of State (check/money order); execution to facility. No personal checks for passport fees [9].

Processing Times and Expedited Services

Standard: 6-8 weeks (routine). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). No guarantees—add 2 weeks for mailing/peaks [2]. Track online.

For travel <14 days: Call 1-877-487-2778 for agency appt (proof required) [2]. Chicago agency: 230 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL—appointment only.

Avoid peaks (Mar-Jun, Dec); apply 4-6 months early [2].

Special Considerations for Common Challenges

• Minors: Both parents required; notarized consent if one absent. No dual custody shortcuts [1].
• High Demand: Faribault facilities limit slots—book 4+ weeks ahead.
• Birth Certificates: MN-issued only; apostille for foreign use ($20 extra) [7].
• Name/Gender Changes: Additional docs like court orders [1].
• Students/Urgent: Colleges may provide letters; still no priority at locals.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Faribault

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to process passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities, often found at post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, or municipal buildings, do not issue passports on-site. Instead, staff verify your identity, review your application for completeness, administer the oath, and forward your documents to a regional passport agency for processing. Expect a straightforward but thorough procedure: arrive with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), two passport photos meeting specific requirements, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees. Fees are typically paid separately—one by check or money order to the Department of State, and the execution fee in cash, check, or card to the facility. Processing can take 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited, though actual times vary.

In and around Faribault, such facilities are commonly available at local post offices, government administrative centers, and community libraries within a reasonable driving distance, including nearby towns. These spots handle both routine applications and urgent needs, but availability depends on each site's policies. Always confirm details through official channels before visiting, as services can change. For faster service or complex cases, consider regional passport agencies farther away, reachable by car in a few hours.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start busy as people catch up from the weekend, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can draw crowds due to lunch breaks and school schedules. Weekends, if offered, may also fill quickly.

To plan effectively, check facility websites or call ahead for appointment requirements—many now prioritize scheduled visits to reduce wait times. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding peak seasons if possible. Bring all documents organized in a folder, arrive 15-30 minutes early, and have backups like photocopies. If urgency arises, explore expedited options or passport agencies, but prepare for potential lines regardless of timing. Patience and preparation make the process smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Faribault?
No. Local facilities send apps to processing centers. Nearest agency is Chicago; requires qualifying emergency [2].

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited (2-3 weeks, +$60) via any facility. Urgent (<14 days) only at agencies with travel proof [2].

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake immediately matching specs. Common issues: glare/shadows (use natural light), wrong size [8].

How do I renew if my passport is expiring soon?
Use DS-82 if eligible, even if valid 9+ months. Mail it [1].

Do I need an appointment at Faribault Post Office?
Yes, book via usps.com or call. Limited slots [4].

Where do I get a birth certificate in Rice County?
Rice County Recorder (Vital Records), 318 NW 3rd St, or MN Dept of Health online/mail [7].

Can my child use my passport?
No. Everyone needs own; minors require parental consent [1].

What if I need it for a cruise?
Closed-loop cruises to Mexico/Caribbean allow birth cert + ID, but passport recommended [10].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[3]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[4]USPS Passport Services
[5]Rice County Auditor-Treasurer
[6]Passport Forms
[7]MN Department of Health - Vital Records
[8]Passport Photo Requirements
[9]Passport Fees
[10]Cruise Lines International Association - Passport Rules