Getting a Passport in Waverly, NE: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Your Passport in Waverly, NE

Living in Waverly, Nebraska, in Lancaster County, means you're close to Lincoln's hubs for travel, education, and business. Many residents handle frequent international trips for work, tourism peaks in spring/summer and winter breaks, student exchanges at nearby University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), and occasional last-minute urgencies like family emergencies. However, high demand at local facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during these seasons. Common hurdles include photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong sizes; missing documents for minors; and mix-ups on renewals versus new applications or expedited options for trips under 14 days.[1] This guide walks you through the process step by step, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you prepare accurately.

Which Passport Service Do You Need?

Choosing the right path saves time and avoids rejections. Here's how to decide:

• First-Time Passport: If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one was issued before age 16, or it's been damaged/lost/stolen and over a year expired, apply in person using Form DS-11. This applies to most new adult or child applicants.[2]

• Renewal: Eligible if your last passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, undamaged, and sent with your application. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit needed unless adding pages or changing data. Not eligible? Treat as first-time.[2]

• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Report it via Form DS-64 (free report), then apply for a replacement. If valid and undamaged, use DS-82 for renewal-style; otherwise, DS-11 in person.[3]

• Urgent Travel: For trips in 14 days or less, seek expedited service or life-or-death emergencies (immediate travel). Routine service won't cut it—plan ahead, as peak seasons overwhelm facilities.[1]

Use the State Department's online wizard to confirm: answer a few questions for your exact form and process.[4]

Required Documents and Eligibility

All applicants must prove U.S. citizenship, identity, and (for minors) parental consent. Incomplete packages cause most delays. Gather originals—photocopies won't suffice.

Step-by-Step Document Checklist

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

2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original + Photocopy):

   • U.S. birth certificate (long-form preferred; hospital "short" versions often rejected).
   • Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or previous undamaged passport.
   • Nebraska vital records office issues certified birth certificates; order online or by mail if needed.[5]

3. Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy):

   • Valid driver's license (Nebraska DL from DMV), military ID, or government employee ID.
   • If name changed, include legal proof like marriage certificate.

4. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo, taken within 6 months. White/cream background, no glasses/uniforms/selfies, head 1-1 3/8 inches. Common rejections: shadows under eyes/chin, glare on forehead, wrong size.[6]

5. Fees (as of 2023; check for updates):

   Service	Application Fee (to State Dept)	Execution Fee (to Facility)	Optional Expedite
   Adult Book (10-yr)	$130	$35	+$60
   Adult Card (10-yr)	$30	$35	+$60
   Minor Book (5-yr)	$100	$35	+$60
   Minor Card (5-yr)	$15	$35	+$60
   Renewal (DS-82)	$130 (book)	None (mail)	+$60

   Pay application fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee separate.

6. For Minors Under 16:

   • Both parents/guardians present or notarized consent (Form DS-3053).
   • Proof of parental relationship (birth certificate).
   • Child must appear in person.[8]

7. Name Change/Other: Court orders, adoption decrees if applicable.

Photocopy front/back of ID/citizenship docs on standard 8.5x11 white paper.

Where to Apply in Waverly and Lancaster County

Waverly lacks a passport agency (those are for urgent cases only, nearest in Chicago). Use acceptance facilities by appointment—book early via online tools, as slots fill fast during travel seasons.

• Waverly Post Office: 13600 Waverly Rd, Waverly, NE 68462. Offers DS-11 processing; call (402) 786-5312 or use USPS locator for hours/appointments.[9]

• Nearby in Lincoln (Lancaster County):

  • Lincoln Post Office (various branches, e.g., Downtown: 1 Courthouse Ln).
  • Lancaster County Clerk: 555 S 10th St, Lincoln—handles elections but check for passports.
  • UNL City Campus or libraries for students/exchanges.[9]

Search "passport acceptance facility" on USPS.com for real-time availability. No walk-ins; arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.

Mail renewals to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[2]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Waverly

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These sites, often found at post offices, public libraries, county clerks' offices, or municipal buildings, do not process passport photos, print passports, or handle renewals by mail. Their role is limited to verifying your identity, ensuring forms are complete, administering the oath, and forwarding your application to a regional passport agency for processing. In Waverly and surrounding communities, several such facilities serve residents, typically handling both first-time applications and minor renewals.

When visiting, arrive prepared with a completed DS-11 form (for new passports), two identical passport photos meeting size and quality standards, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—usually via check or money order. Expect a brief interview where staff confirm details and collect biometrics if required. Processing times vary from weeks to months, depending on demand and whether expedited service is selected. Some locations offer drop-off services or group appointments, but availability differs.

Waverly itself hosts a few acceptance facilities within city limits, while nearby towns and suburbs provide additional options, often within a short drive. Rural areas around Waverly may require traveling to larger hubs for service. Always verify current participation through the official State Department website, as designations can change.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, on Mondays after weekend rushes, and mid-day hours when working professionals visit. Lines can form quickly, leading to extended waits. To plan effectively, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, avoiding seasonal peaks if possible. Check for appointment requirements in advance, as some sites now mandate reservations to manage crowds. Bring all documents organized to streamline your visit, and consider off-peak days like Tuesdays through Thursdays for shorter queues. Patience is key—arrive with extra time to account for unexpected delays.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Pitfalls

Photos fail 25% of applications.[6] Specs:

• 2x2 inches exactly.
• Full face, neutral expression, mouth closed.
• Even lighting: no shadows, even skin tones.
• Head size: top of head to chin 1-1 3/8 inches; eyes open, visible.

Where to get them:

• CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart in Waverly/Lincoln (confirm passport service).
• USPS or facilities often provide ($15-17).[10]
• Avoid home printers—glare/shadows common.

Digital check: Upload to State Dept photo tool.[6]

Processing Times and Expediting

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 10-13 weeks (in-person) from receipt. Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Urgent (14 days): In-person at agency by appointment only—not local facilities.[1]

No guarantees—peaks (spring break, summer, holidays) add delays. Track via email alerts. For Nebraska business/tourism or student programs, apply 3-6 months ahead. Last-minute? Airlines require passports 72+ hours pre-flight; don't rely on stat.[11]

Life-or-death: Call 1-877-487-2778 for agency slot.[1]

Special Considerations for Minors and Students

Minors need both parents; solo parent? Notarized DS-3053 from absent one. Students on exchanges: Include school letter for proof if needed, but standard rules apply. High UNL volume means book early.[8]

Full Step-by-Step Application Checklist

Use this printable checklist for first-time/replacement (DS-11):

1. Prep (1-2 weeks ahead):

   • Confirm eligibility via State Dept wizard.[4]
   • Gather citizenship proof + photocopy.
   • Get valid ID + photocopy.
   • Obtain 2x2 photo; validate online.[6]
   • Fill unsigned DS-11.

2. Book Appointment:

   • Search USPS/locals; schedule (Waverly PO or Lincoln).[9]
   • Note fees; bring checks.

3. At Facility:

   • Arrive early with all originals/photocopies.
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Pay fees (separate payments).
   • Get receipt with tracking #.

4. After:

   • Track status online.[11]
   • Allow full processing; no calls until overdue.

For renewals: Mail complete DS-82 package—no checklist needed beyond docs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How soon can I get a passport for a trip in 3 weeks?
Expedite for 2-3 weeks processing, but apply ASAP—facility mailing adds time. Under 14 days? Passport agency required.[1]

My child’s birth certificate is a short form—will it work?
Often not; get certified long-form from Nebraska Vital Records.[5]

What if my passport photo is rejected?
Resubmit only the photo with your receipt—no full reapplication. Common issues: lighting/dimensions.[6]

Do I need an appointment during slow seasons?
Yes, all facilities require them year-round due to demand; book online.[9]

Can I track my application?
Yes, use the online checker with your last name, DOB, app fee receipt #.[11]

Is there a passport service at UNL for students?
Check UNL international office or nearby post offices; standard rules apply.[8]

What about passport cards for land/sea to Mexico/Canada?
Cheaper alternative to books for non-air travel; same process.[7]

Final Tips for Waverly Residents

Leverage proximity to Lincoln for more slots. For business frequent flyers, consider adding visa pages. Always verify info on official sites—rules change. Safe travels!

Sources

[1]U.S. Passports & International Travel
[2]Apply in Person for a Passport (DS-11)
[3]Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport
[4]Passport Application Wizard
[5]Nebraska Vital Records
[6]Passport Photo Requirements
[7]Passport Fees
[8]Children Under 16
[9]USPS Passport Locations
[10]Passport Photos at The UPS Store (Note: Many retailers like this follow State specs)
[11]Check Application Status