Getting a Passport in Myrtle, MN: Facilities, Steps, Fees

Getting a Passport in Myrtle, MN

Residents of Myrtle in Freeborn County, Minnesota, often need passports for frequent international business trips, family vacations during spring and summer peaks or winter breaks, student exchange programs through nearby universities like those in the Twin Cities, or urgent last-minute travel. Minnesota's travel patterns include high volumes of outbound flights from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), making timely passport processing essential. However, common hurdles like limited appointments at busy facilities, photo rejections from shadows or glare, incomplete minor documentation, and confusion over renewal forms can delay applications. This guide outlines the process using official U.S. Department of State requirements, with local Freeborn County context.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right service prevents wasted trips and fees. Use this section to identify your situation:

• First-time passport: If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous passport was issued before age 16, or it was lost/stolen/damaged beyond use, apply in person using Form DS-11. You cannot mail this.[1]

• Renewal: Eligible if your last passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, is undamaged, and was sent to you (not a limited-validity one). Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit needed unless adding pages or changing details.[2] Many Myrtle residents overlook this, leading to unnecessary facility visits.

• Replacement for lost/stolen/damaged: Report it first via Form DS-64 (free), then apply as first-time (DS-11 in person) or renewal (DS-82 if eligible).[3] For name changes (e.g., marriage), renewals work if under 15 years old.

• Urgent travel (within 14 days): Schedule expedited service at a facility or agency, but expect proof like flight itineraries. Life-or-death emergencies allow in-person at regional agencies.[4]

If unsure, check your old passport or use the State Department's online wizard.[1]

Step-by-Step Checklist for New Applications or Replacements (DS-11)

Follow this checklist precisely to avoid rejections. Complete steps before your appointment.

1. Fill out Form DS-11: Download from travel.state.gov, but do not sign until instructed at the facility. Black ink only.[1]

2. Gather proof of U.S. citizenship: Original birth certificate (issued by Minnesota Department of Health or vital records office), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Photocopies required on standard 8.5x11 paper.[5][6]

3. Provide ID proving identity: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. Photocopy front/back.[1]

4. Get passport photos: Two identical 2x2-inch color photos on white background, taken within 6 months. No glasses, uniforms, shadows, glare, or smiles showing teeth. Local pharmacies like Walgreens in Albert Lea or Walmart in Austin offer this for $15–16.[7]

5. Pay fees: See "Fees" section below. Bring check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee; cash/card for execution fee at facility.[1]

6. For minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (DS-3053). See "Minors" section.[8]

7. Book appointment: Facilities require them—call ahead.

8. Attend in person: Present all documents unsigned. Agent witnesses signature.

Print and check off this list:
☐ DS-11 completed but unsigned
☐ Citizenship evidence + photocopy
☐ Photo ID + photocopy
☐ Two photos
☐ Fees prepared
☐ Itinerary for expedited (if needed)

Step-by-Step Checklist for Renewals (DS-82)

Renewals are simpler for eligible applicants:

1. Confirm eligibility: Passport issued 15+ years ago? Ineligible—use DS-11.[2]

2. Complete DS-82: Online fillable form or print. Sign and date.[2]

3. Include old passport: Submit it with application.

4. Photos: One 2x2-inch photo (mailed with application).[7]

5. Fees: Check/money order to "U.S. Department of State."

6. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (or PO Box 90152 for expedited).[9]

Track status online after 7–10 days.[10]

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Myrtle

Myrtle lacks a dedicated facility, so head to Freeborn County options. Demand spikes in spring/summer (Europe trips) and winter (Mexico/Caribbean), causing waitlists—book 4–6 weeks early.[11]

• Albert Lea Main Post Office (609 Bridge Ave, Albert Lea, MN 56007; 507-373-7231): 15 miles north. By appointment Mon–Fri. Handles DS-11.[12]

• Freeborn County Recorder's Office (411 S Broadway Ave, Albert Lea; 507-377-5146): Clerk accepts applications. Confirm hours.[13]

• Austin Post Office (404 1st Dr NW, Austin, MN 55912; 30 miles south; 507-437-7607): Backup for high volume.

Search exact availability at iafdb.travel.state.gov (enter ZIP 56066).[14] No walk-ins; appointments via phone/online. For urgent needs within 14 days, prove travel and pay expedite fee.[4]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Minnesota's variable lighting (harsh sun, indoor fluorescents) causes glare/shadows—30% of rejections stem from photos.[7] Specs:[7]

• 2x2 inches, head 1–1 3/8 inches.
• White/cream/off-white background.
• Neutral expression, eyes open.
• Even lighting, no red-eye.

Get them at CVS/Walgreens in Albert Lea (search store locators).[15] Selfies fail; professionals use right equipment.

Fees and Payment

Fees unchanged as of 2023:[1]

Expedite: +$60. Overnight return: +$21.18. Facilities take cash/check for execution; State Dept. fee by check/money order.[1] No credit cards for application fee at post offices.

Processing Times and Expediting

Routine: 6–8 weeks (mailbox to mailbox). Expedited: 2–3 weeks (+$60).[16] Peak seasons (spring/summer, holidays) add 2–4 weeks—do not rely on last-minute processing.[11] Track at passportstatus.state.gov.[10]

For travel <14 days: Expedite + proof (e.g., MSP itinerary). Regional agencies in Chicago (closest) for emergencies.[17]

Special Considerations for Minors

Freeborn County sees many student exchanges—minors need extra docs. Under 16: Both parents appear with DS-3053 if one absent (notarized). Proof of parental relationship (birth certificate).[8] No renewals by mail for minors.

Additional Tips for Myrtle Residents

• Vital records: Order birth certificates from Freeborn County Recorder or MN Dept. of Health (2–4 weeks).[6][18]
• Name change: Court order + marriage certificate.
• Dual citizenship: U.S. passport first.

Apply early; MSP's seasonal surges amplify delays.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Myrtle

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 other passport services. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, trained agents review your completed forms, verify your identity and eligibility, collect fees, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, county clerk offices, libraries, and municipal buildings in the Myrtle area and surrounding coastal communities.

To use these facilities, arrive prepared with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your needs), two passport photos meeting State Department specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees (via check or money order). Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Expect a brief interview where the agent administers an oath, seals your application in an envelope, and provides a receipt with tracking information. The process typically takes 15-45 minutes per applicant, but lines can form, so patience is key. Not all locations handle every service, such as expedited processing or lost/stolen passports, so confirm general capabilities in advance through official channels.

Facilities are scattered throughout Myrtle and nearby towns, offering convenient access for residents and visitors along the Grand Strand. Public libraries and government centers often provide quieter alternatives to busier postal spots.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities experience peak crowds during high tourist seasons like summer and holidays, when travel demand surges. Mondays and mid-week days tend to see heavier traffic as people start their week, while mid-day hours (around lunch) often overlap with local routines, leading to longer waits. To minimize delays, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding weekends when volumes can spike unpredictably. Always build in extra time, especially seasonally, and consider calling ahead for appointment availability where offered—though walk-ins are common. Planning 4-6 weeks before travel allows for standard processing, reducing stress during busier periods. Stay flexible and check the U.S. Department of State's website for updates on nationwide trends that may affect local spots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I renew my passport at the Albert Lea Post Office?
No, renewals (DS-82) go by mail if eligible. Use post office only for DS-11.[2]

How soon can I get a passport for urgent travel?
Routine 6–8 weeks; expedited 2–3 weeks. For <14 days, prove urgency—no guarantees in peaks.[4][16]

What if my photo is rejected?
Retake immediately—common for glare/shadows. Specs at travel.state.gov.[7]

Do I need an appointment in Freeborn County?
Yes, all facilities require them. Call early; slots fill fast spring/summer.[14]

How do I replace a lost passport?
File DS-64 online, then DS-11 in person with police report if stolen.[3]

Can I mail my first-time application from Myrtle?
No, DS-11 must be in person.[1]

What about passport cards for cruises/land travel?
Cheaper alternative, valid for Canada/Mexico by land/sea. Same process.[19]

Where do I get a birth certificate in Minnesota?
Freeborn County Recorder or MN Vital Records online/mail.[6][18]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Renewals
[3]U.S. Department of State - Lost/Stolen
[4]U.S. Department of State - Urgent Travel
[5]U.S. Department of State - Forms
[6]Minnesota Department of Health - Vital Records
[7]U.S. Department of State - Photos
[8]U.S. Department of State - Children
[9]U.S. Department of State - Mailing Addresses
[10]Passport Status Check
[11]U.S. Department of State - Wait Times
[12]USPS - Albert Lea PO
[13]Freeborn County - Recorder
[14]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[15]Walgreens Photo Services
[16]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[17]Passport Agencies
[18]Freeborn County Vital Records
[19]U.S. Department of State - Passport Card