Hershey PA Passport Guide: First-Time, Renewals, Facilities

Obtaining a Passport in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Hershey, Pennsylvania, located in Dauphin County, attracts residents and visitors who frequently engage in international travel for business, tourism, and educational exchanges. The area's proximity to Harrisburg International Airport facilitates trips abroad, with higher volumes during spring and summer vacations, winter breaks, and Hersheypark's peak seasons. Students from nearby Penn State campuses or exchange programs also contribute to demand. However, this leads to challenges like limited appointments at acceptance facilities, confusion over expedited options versus true urgent travel (within 14 days for life-or-death emergencies), and issues with photos or incomplete paperwork, especially for minors. This guide provides practical steps tailored to Hershey-area applicants, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to help you navigate the process efficiently [1].

Choosing the Right Passport Service

Before starting, identify your specific need to use the correct form and process. Misapplying—for instance, submitting a first-time application when eligible for renewal—can delay your request.

First-Time Passport

You're eligible if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before you turned 16 (even if now expired). Use Form DS-11, downloadable from travel.state.gov—fill it out completely online or by hand, but do not sign it until instructed in person. You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, bringing originals of proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate), valid photo ID, a compliant 2x2-inch passport photo, and fees (check or money order recommended).

Common for new Hershey residents (e.g., relocating for jobs or family), families with young children, or those whose old passports (issued 15+ years ago) are lost, stolen, or no longer renewable [1].

Decision Guidance: Review your prior passport: If issued at 16+ and within 15 years, renew via mail with DS-82 for simplicity (no photo needed). Otherwise, use DS-11. Use the State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov to confirm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Signing DS-11 early (it invalidates the form).
• Bringing copies instead of originals (photocopies rejected).
• Non-standard photos (recent, color, plain white/light background, head size 1-1 3/8 inches).
• Underestimating wait times—book appointments early via the facility's site or call; standard processing is 6-8 weeks (expedite for 2-3 weeks + fee).
• For kids under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent.

Gather docs 4-6 weeks ahead; Hershey-area facilities get busy seasonally with tourism families.

Renewal

If your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you were at least 16 when it was issued, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen, renew by mail using Form DS-82. This skips in-person visits, ideal for busy professionals in Hershey with routine business travel. Do not mail DS-82 if adding pages, changing name/gender, or if it's your only ID—use DS-11 instead [1].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

If your U.S. passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, act quickly to minimize travel disruptions—Hershey-area travelers often deal with this during sudden family emergencies or last-minute trips to places like Philadelphia International Airport [1].

Step 1: Report it immediately
Submit Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport) online at travel.state.gov or by mail. This is mandatory, free, and prevents identity theft.
Common mistake: Skipping this step, which can delay or reject your replacement application.

Step 2: Apply for replacement
Gather: two passport photos (2x2 inches, recent, white background), proof of citizenship (original birth certificate or naturalization certificate), valid photo ID (e.g., PA driver's license), and fees (check travel.state.gov for current amounts).

• DS-11 (in-person, new passport): Required if first-time applicant, under 16 when prior passport issued, prior passport over 15 years old, or passport is damaged/undamaged but ineligible for mail renewal.
• DS-82 (mail renewal): Eligible if passport issued within 15 years, you were 16+ at issuance, not damaged (lost/stolen OK), and you meet standard renewal rules (U.S. resident, good condition submission).

Decision guidance:

Use the State Department's online Passport Application Wizard at travel.state.gov to confirm eligibility—takes 2 minutes and avoids rejections.
Common mistake: Choosing mail renewal when ineligible, leading to returned applications and wasted time/fees.

Urgent replacements:

• Expedite (+$60, 2-3 weeks processing vs. 6-8 weeks routine).
• Life-or-death emergency (travel within 14 days for immediate family funeral/illness): Apply in-person with proof for possible same/next-day service.
  Pro tip: Track status online post-submission; Hershey locals should apply early to account for regional processing backlogs during peak travel seasons.

Additional Passports or Name/Gender Changes

Use DS-5504 by mail within one year of issuance for corrections; otherwise, DS-11/DS-82 [1].

Pennsylvania's seasonal travel spikes mean planning ahead is crucial—avoid assuming last-minute slots during summer or holidays.

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Hershey

Hershey lacks a passport agency (those are for urgent, in-person expedites in major cities like Philadelphia). Use acceptance facilities for routine/rush applications. Search the official locator for current hours and availability [2].

Key options in/near Hershey (Dauphin County):

• Hershey Post Office (378 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033): Offers passport services by appointment. Call (717) 533-9188 or book via USPS online. Popular but books up fast due to local demand [3].
• Palmyra Post Office (92 N Londonderry Square, Palmyra, PA 17078): About 10 minutes north; (717) 838-1240.
• Harrisburg Post Office – Federal Square Station (200 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17101): 15-20 minutes east; handles higher volume.

County clerks or libraries may offer services—check Dauphin County Courthouse (2 S 2nd St, Harrisburg) for clerk options, though primarily post offices serve Hershey [4]. Book appointments 4-6 weeks ahead; high demand from tourism and students causes waits. Walk-ins are rare.

For births in PA, obtain certificates from the PA Department of Health (not facilities). Order online/vitalchek or mail [5].

Required Documentation

Gather originals—photocopies won't suffice. Common pitfalls: missing minor consent forms or proof of citizenship for first-timers.

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

• U.S. birth certificate (raised seal; PA hospital abstracts invalid alone) [5].
• Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. For Hershey births, request from PA Vital Records: expedited via VitalChek ($38.50 + fees) [5].

Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy)

• Valid driver's license (PA-enhanced for air travel), military ID, or government employee ID. If none, use secondary like Social Security card + birth certificate.

Parental Consent for Minors (Under 16)

Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized Form DS-3053. Incomplete forms delay 20% of minor apps [1].

Fees (as of 2023; verify current)

• First-time/renewal adult book: $130 application + $35 execution + $30 optional expedite.
• Minor: $100 application + $35 execution. Pay execution to facility (check/money order); application to State Dept (check) [1].

Photocopy all docs (front/back, 1 per page) on standard 8.5x11 white paper.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections. Specs: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses/uniforms/selfies [6].

Hershey options:

• CVS Pharmacy (121 W Chocolate Ave): $16.99, instant [7].
• Walmart (353 W Chocolate Ave): Same-day.

Challenges: Shadows from chocolate factory lighting, glare on glasses, incorrect sizing (use template [6]). Pros take measurements—don't DIY.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or In-Person Applications

Use this checklist for DS-11 applications at Hershey facilities. Complete Form DS-11 online (not signed until in-person) [1].

1. Determine eligibility: Confirm first-time/replacement (not renewal). [Week(s) ahead]
2. Gather citizenship proof: Order PA birth cert if needed (allow 2-4 weeks standard; 3-5 days expedited) [5]. Photocopy.
3. Secure ID: Renew PA license if expired. Photocopy.
4. Get photo: Professional 2x2 at CVS/Walmart. Check specs [6].
5. Fill DS-11: Download/print/black ink. Do not sign. For minors, DS-3053 if one parent.
6. Book appointment: Call Hershey PO or use USPS tool. Arrive 15 min early with all docs/fees [3].
7. At facility:
   • Present docs; staff verify.
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Pay execution fee (cash/check to PO).
   • Receive receipt—passport mails in 6-8 weeks routine.
8. Track: Use online tool after 5-7 days [8].
9. Expedite if needed: Add $60 fee, overnight docs to agency? No—for acceptance facilities, USPS Priority return ($21.36) [1].

Expedited Checklist Additions:

• Mark "EXPEDITE" on envelope.
• Include $60 fee check to State Dept.
• Processing: 2-3 weeks (varies; peaks slower). Not for 14-day urgent—fly to Philly agency [9].

For mail renewals (DS-82):

1. Confirm eligibility.
2. Fill DS-82, include old passport.
3. Photo, fees ($130 check).
4. Mail to address on form [1].

Processing Times and Urgent Travel

Routine: 6-8 weeks door-to-door (facility to receipt). Expedited: 2-3 weeks + fees. These are medians—high-demand periods (spring/summer, winter breaks) extend due to PA's travel volume [1]. Do not rely on last-minute processing; check weekly updates [10].

True urgent (travel within 14 days, life/death): Call 1-877-487-2778 for Philly appointment (requires proof) [9]. Business/tourism doesn't qualify. Students: plan for exchange deadlines.

Lost abroad? Contact U.S. embassy [11].

Step-by-Step Checklist for Pennsylvania Birth Certificate (Common Hurdle)

1. Verify need: Long-form with raised seal [5].
2. Order method:
   • Online: VitalChek (pa.gov/health link) – fastest, $20 + $38.50 expedite + shipping [5].
   • Mail: PA Dept of Health, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103 ($20; 3 weeks).
3. Include: Application, ID copy, fee (money order).
4. Dauphin County births: State handles all post-1906; older from Orphans' Court (717-780-6515) [12].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Hershey

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 certain replacements. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, they review your completed forms, verify your identity, administer the oath, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Hershey, such facilities can typically be found in local post offices, nearby county administrative centers, and community hubs in surrounding areas like Harrisburg or smaller towns. Availability varies, so it's essential to confirm details through official channels before visiting.

When visiting an acceptance facility, expect to bring a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting U.S. specifications, and payment for application and execution fees. Minors under 16 must appear with both parents or guardians, and additional documentation may be required. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant if everything is in order, but delays can occur due to volume or issues with paperwork. Most facilities handle applications by appointment, though some allow walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. After submission, standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an extra fee.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities in the Hershey area, like many others, experience peak crowds during high-travel seasons such as summer vacation periods, spring breaks, and major holidays. Weekdays, particularly Mondays, often see higher volumes as people catch up after weekends. Mid-day hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., tend to be the busiest due to lunch-hour rushes.

To plan effectively, schedule appointments well in advance, especially during seasonal peaks, and aim for early morning or late afternoon slots when possible. Check facility websites or call ahead to verify current procedures, as walk-in policies can change. Arrive prepared with all documents to minimize wait times, and consider applying during off-peak months like January or September for smoother experiences. Always monitor U.S. Department of State resources for the latest guidance on requirements and processing times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport the same day in Hershey?
No acceptance facility offers same-day; routine takes weeks. Urgent? Philly agency only for qualifiers [9].

What if my appointment is booked?
Try nearby Palmyra/Harrisburg POs or clerks. Monitor for cancellations; apply early for seasonal travel [2].

My photo was rejected—what now?
Redo professionally; common issues: glare/shadows (Hershey lighting), size. Use State Dept tool [6].

How do I renew if traveling soon?
Mail DS-82 up to 9 months early. Expedite for 2-3 weeks [1].

Do minors need both parents?
Yes, or notarized consent. Frequent issue delaying Hershey families [1].

What's expedited vs. urgent service?
Expedited: 2-3 weeks, $60 fee. Urgent: 14-day emergencies only, agency visit [1].

Can I track my application?
Yes, after 5-7 days via email receipt [8].

PA driver's license expired—options?
Use military ID or secondary proofs; renew at PennDOT first [13].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[3]USPS Passport Services
[4]Dauphin County Government
[5]Pennsylvania Department of Health - Birth Certificates
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[7]CVS Photo Services
[8]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[9]U.S. Department of State - Urgent Travel
[10]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[11]U.S. Department of State - Lost Passport Abroad
[12]Dauphin County Orphans' Court
[13]PennDOT Driver Services