Gretna NE Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals, Kids & Facilities

Passport Services in Gretna, Nebraska

Residents of Gretna, in Sarpy County, often need passports for frequent international business travel from nearby Omaha's Eppley Airfield, family vacations during spring and summer peaks or winter breaks to warmer destinations, student exchange programs at universities like Creighton or the University of Nebraska Omaha, and occasional last-minute trips for family emergencies or work. Nebraska's proximity to major travel hubs means higher demand at local acceptance facilities, especially seasonally, leading to limited appointment availability. This guide provides clear, step-by-step information based on official U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you prepare effectively and avoid common pitfalls like photo rejections or incomplete paperwork.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your specific situation to use the correct form and process. This prevents wasted trips to facilities like the Gretna Post Office.

First-Time Applicants (Including Name Changes)

If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or it expired more than 15 years ago (check the issue date on the data page), you must apply in person as a first-time applicant using Form DS-11. This also covers adults with expired passports from long ago or those needing a name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order—do not renew; start fresh with DS-11.

Quick Decision Guide

• First-time or expired >15 years? Yes → DS-11 in person.
• Recent name change but passport still valid <15 years? Still DS-11 if changing name.
• Child under 16? Always DS-11, both parents required.

What to Bring (Originals Only—No Photocopies for Core Docs)

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport.
2. Photo ID: Driver's license, military ID, or government-issued ID (bring photocopy too).
3. Passport Photo: One 2x2" color photo on white background, taken within 6 months (avoid selfies or Walmart prints—use professional services; common mistake: smiling or wrong size).
4. Name Change Proof (if applicable): Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
5. Form DS-11: Download/fill out from travel.state.gov but do not sign until instructed in person.
6. Fees: Check/money order for application fee ($130 adult book), separate payment for execution fee (~$35).

Practical Steps for Gretna Residents

• Locate a nearby passport acceptance facility (post office, county clerk, or library) via travel.state.gov—call ahead for hours, appointments, and wait times (Gretna-area spots fill up fast mid-week).
• Aim for morning slots; processing takes 4-6 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee).
• Common Mistakes to Avoid:
  • Forgetting originals—photocopies OK as secondary proof but not primary.
  • Signing DS-11 early (voids it).
  • Name mismatches between docs (e.g., birth certificate maiden name vs. license married name—bring marriage cert).
  • Inadequate photos (glasses off, neutral expression, <10% head size).
• Pro Tip: For name changes, verify all docs match exactly; if hyphenated or complex, bring extra court proof to avoid delays.[1]

Renewals

You may qualify to renew by mail if your most recent passport:

• Was issued when you were age 16 or older,
• Was issued within the last 15 years,
• Is undamaged and in your possession (or you can submit evidence if lost domestically).

Use Form DS-82 for mail renewals, which is simpler and avoids in-person visits. If your passport doesn't meet these criteria or is damaged, treat it as a first-time application with DS-11.[1]

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

• Lost or stolen abroad: Report it immediately to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate using Form DS-64 (download from travel.state.gov). Then apply for a limited-validity replacement passport.
  Practical tip: Carry a photocopy of your passport while traveling to speed up the process.
  Common mistake: Delaying the report, which can complicate re-entry to the U.S.
  Decision guidance: Use this if you're outside the U.S.; expect higher fees and shorter validity.

• Lost or stolen in the U.S. (including Gretna, NE area): File a police report if possible, then submit Form DS-64 with your passport application—use Form DS-11 for a new passport (in person, no renewal if lost) or DS-82 if eligible for renewal.
  Practical tip: Bring proof of U.S. citizenship, ID, photo, and fees to a local passport acceptance facility like a post office or clerk's office.
  Common mistake: Submitting only DS-64 without the full application, causing delays.
  Decision guidance: Choose DS-11 if under 16, name change without docs, or exhausted renewals; DS-82 otherwise for faster processing.

• Damaged: Do not attempt renewal—submit the damaged passport with Form DS-11 (new passport) or DS-82 if eligible.
  Practical tip: Minor damage like water stains may still qualify for renewal; severe issues (e.g., torn pages) require DS-11.
  Common mistake: Mailing the damaged one alone without a full application.
  Decision guidance: Inspect for usability—if unreadable or altered, treat as new application.

For urgent replacements in the Gretna, NE area, opt for expedited service ($60 extra, 2-3 weeks) or life-or-death emergency service (call 1-877-487-2778). Track status online at travel.state.gov.[1]

Passports for Children Under 16

Children under 16 must apply in person using Form DS-11, with both parents or legal guardians present at the same appointment. If one parent/guardian cannot attend, submit a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) from the absent parent/guardian—common mistake: using a non-notarized letter instead. Validity is limited to 5 years (vs. 10 for adults).

Practical tips for Gretna-area families:

• Schedule early: Appointments fill quickly at nearby facilities; book online via the official site.
• If sole custody: Provide court order, birth certificate listing only one parent, or death certificate of the other parent.
• Nebraska births: Order a certified birth certificate from Nebraska Vital Records (not hospital version)—allow 2-4 weeks processing; rush if needed.
• Decision guidance: No mail option ever for kids under 16; plan for group family appointments if multiple children.

Quick Decision Table:

Download forms from the official site.[1]

Required Documents and Eligibility

All applicants (including children) need:

1. Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (Nebraska-issued for local births—common mistake: submitting short-form or photocopy), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport.
2. Proof of identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or secondary combo (e.g., Social Security card + school ID)—photocopies OK for some secondary proofs.
3. Passport photo: One 2x2-inch color photo (taken within 6 months, plain white background, no glasses/selfies—common mistake: wrong size or smiling). Many local pharmacies or photo shops offer passport-specific service.

Decision guidance:

• First-time? Full in-person with originals.
• Renewal? Use online eligibility quiz; mail only if qualified.
• Urgent travel? Expedite fees apply; check processing times (routine: 6-8 weeks). No photocopies for citizenship docs—bring extras if possible. Verify full list on official site before applying.[1]

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

• U.S. birth certificate (raised seal, from vital records office; Nebraska issues via DHHS).[2]
• Naturalization Certificate (Form N-550/570).
• Previous undamaged passport.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

For Nebraska births, order certified copies from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Vital Records. Rush processing takes 3-5 business days; standard is longer. Local Sarpy County does not issue birth certificates—use state services.[2]

Proof of Identity

• Valid driver's license (Nebraska DMV-issued).
• Military ID or government employee ID.
• Current passport (if renewing).

If your name has changed, provide legal proof like marriage certificate.

Fees

Pay by check or money order:

• Book (adult first-time/renewal): $130 application + $35 execution (to acceptance facility) + optional expedited.[3]
• Card: Lower fees.
• Children: $100 application + $35 execution.

Execution fee paid separately to the facility (e.g., $35 at USPS).[3]

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of application rejections. Specs are strict: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, no glasses/uniforms/selfies.[4]

Common Issues in Gretna Area:

• Glare/shadows from home lighting.
• Incorrect size (measure precisely).
• Minors with eyes closed or parents in frame.

Get photos at CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Stores in Gretna/Papillion ($15-17). Postal facilities like Gretna Post Office do not take photos but accept them.[4] Official specs: travel.state.gov photo tool.[4]

Where to Apply in Gretna and Sarpy County

Gretna lacks a full passport agency; use acceptance facilities for DS-11 submissions. Book appointments online due to high demand—spring/summer and holidays fill quickly.

Local Facilities

• Gretna Post Office: A convenient local option for passport executions. Check current hours and availability via the USPS locator tool, as they can change seasonally or due to staffing.
• Papillion Post Office (Sarpy County seat): Reliable alternative with similar services; often less crowded mid-week.
• Bellevue Post Office: Good for those east of Gretna; verify if appointments are required.
• Sarpy County Clerk's Office: Primarily handles elections but may accept passports—call ahead to confirm eligibility and avoid wasted trips.

Always use the official USPS locator (usps.com) or State Department tool for up-to-date hours, wait times, and services. Nearest passport agency is out-of-state (for urgent life-or-death emergencies only; routine applications are mailed from these facilities).

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Gretna

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 do not issue passports on-site; they verify your identity, witness your signature, collect fees (including an execution fee at most locations), and mail your documents to a regional agency for processing (6-8 weeks standard; expedited 2-3 weeks). Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Gretna (Sarpy County, Nebraska), options are available at local post offices, libraries, and government offices, with nearby communities like Papillion, Bellevue, La Vista, and Omaha offering additional convenient spots accessible by car in under 30 minutes.

Decision guidance: Pick the closest facility with hours matching your schedule—post offices are most reliable for walk-ins and photos on-site; county offices suit locals but may prioritize residents. Avoid peak times (mornings, Mondays). If traveling farther (e.g., Omaha), check for same-day photo services to save trips.

Prepare like this:

• Completed DS-11 (new/children) or DS-82 (renewal by mail if eligible—check state.gov to confirm).
• Valid photo ID (driver's license + photocopy; passport for renewal).
• One 2x2-inch color photo (white background, head 1-1⅜ inches, taken <6 months ago—get at CVS/Walgreens or many post offices).
• Fees: Application ($130 adult/$100 child) by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee ($35 typical, cash/check/card varies) to the facility.
• For minors under 16: Both parents/guardians present (or notarized consent form); evidence of parental relationship.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Wrong form (DS-82 only for mailed renewals; DS-11 requires in-person).
• Poor photos (glasses off, no selfies, neutral expression—rejections delay 4+ weeks).
• No photocopies of ID (required; originals returned).
• Incorrect payment (split fees; no cash for application fee).
• Incomplete details (e.g., travel plans if expediting).

Arrive early for the brief interview (5-10 minutes) confirming citizenship and no felony warrants. High volumes mean errors happen—double-check docs at home. Track status online at travel.state.gov after submission. Patience pays off; rushing leads to rejections.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities near Gretna tend to see heavier traffic during peak travel seasons like summer vacation months, spring break, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often start with backlogs from weekend inquiries, while mid-day slots (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) fill quickly due to working professionals. To minimize waits, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and check for appointment systems where available—many now require online booking. Avoid last-minute visits, as seasonal rushes can extend lines. Always confirm general policies in advance through official channels, and consider regional passport agencies in larger cities for expedited needs if travel is urgent.

Step-by-Step Application Checklist for In-Person (DS-11)

Follow this checklist to ensure completeness:

1. Complete Form DS-11 (unsigned until in front of agent). Black ink, no staples.[1]
2. Gather citizenship proof (original/certified birth certificate).[2]
3. Provide identity proof (driver's license + photocopy).[1]
4. Get compliant photo (one 2x2).[4]
5. Calculate/pay fees (two separate payments).[3]
6. Book appointment at facility (e.g., Gretna PO via usps.com).[5]
7. Arrive early with all docs. Both parents for minors; consent form if one absent.[1]
8. Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
9. Track status online after 7-10 days (7-10 weeks routine).[1]

Printing Checklist:

□ DS-11 completed but unsigned
□ Birth certificate (original/certified)
□ ID + photocopy front/back
□ Photo (2x2, recent)
□ Fees: Check/money order to "U.S. Department of State" + cash/check for execution
□ Parental consent (DS-3053 if needed, notarized)
□ Name change docs (if applicable)

Processing: Routine 6-8 weeks (no guarantees); peaks add delays. Track at travel.state.gov.[1]

Renewing by Mail (DS-82)

Eligible? Mail to: National Passport Processing Center P.O. Box 90155 Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

Include: DS-82, photo, old passport, fees. 6-8 weeks routine.[1]

Expedited and Urgent Travel Services

Expedited: +$60, 2-3 weeks (still variable). Add at acceptance facility.[1]

Urgent (travel within 14 days):

• Life-or-death emergency (immediate family death abroad): Nearest agency.
• No agency nearby? Urgent service at acceptance facility + call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment.[1]

Confusion Alert: Expedited ≠ same-day. Within 14 days? Apply ASAP, but peaks overwhelm—no last-minute guarantees. Students/business travelers: Plan 8+ weeks ahead.[1]

Special Considerations for Minors

• Both parents/guardians must appear or submit DS-3053 (notarized).
• Child's presence required.
• Higher rejection rate from incomplete parental docs.
• Nebraska custody orders: Include if sole custody.[1]

Common Challenges and Tips for Nebraska Residents

• High Demand: Gretna/Papillion facilities book 2-4 weeks out in summer/winter. Check multiple locations.[5]
• Photo Rejections: Use professional services; home printers often fail.[4]
• Documentation Gaps: Order birth certs early (DHHS: 402-471-2871).[2] Minors: Parental IDs often missing.
• Renewal Mistakes: Using DS-11 when DS-82 eligible wastes time/fees.
• Seasonal Spikes: Spring break (Europe), summer (Caribbean), winter (Mexico) strain resources—apply off-peak.
• Omaha Travel: Eppley flights surge; pair passport with ESTA/visa checks.

Tip: Use travel.state.gov wizard for personalization.[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport the same day in Gretna?
No, Gretna facilities only accept applications. Routine processing is 6-8 weeks; nearest agency is Chicago for rare emergencies.[1]

How do I renew my passport if I live in Gretna?
If eligible, mail DS-82. Otherwise, in-person at Gretna Post Office. Check eligibility first.[1]

What if my child needs a passport urgently for a school trip?
Expedite (+$60) and apply immediately, but within-14-days requires agency proof. Both parents needed.[1]

Where do I get a birth certificate in Sarpy County?
Order from Nebraska DHHS Vital Records, not county offices. Allow 3-5 days rush.[2]

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake per exact specs (no shadows/glare). Facilities won't accept flawed ones.[4]

How much are passport fees for adults/children?
Adult book: $165 total ($130 + $35). Child: $135. Expedite extra.[3]

Can I track my application status?
Yes, after 7-10 days at travel.state.gov/passport-status or call 1-877-487-2778.[1]

Is the Gretna Post Office open for passports on Saturdays?
Limited hours (10am-1pm); confirm via USPS locator as they vary.[5]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Nebraska DHHS Vital Records
[3]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[5]USPS Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[6]Sarpy County Clerk