Kenmar PA Passport Guide: Forms, Photos, Local Facilities

Getting a Passport in Kenmar, PA

Living in Kenmar, a small community in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, means you're close to Williamsport and other hubs with frequent international travel needs. Pennsylvania residents often travel abroad for business from the region's energy and manufacturing sectors, tourism hotspots like the nearby Finger Lakes or international destinations, and seasonal peaks in spring/summer for vacations or winter breaks to warmer climates. Students from local colleges like Lycoming College participate in exchange programs, and urgent trips arise for family emergencies or last-minute opportunities. However, high demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, especially during peak seasons. This guide helps you navigate the process efficiently, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines to avoid common pitfalls like photo rejections or incomplete applications.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before starting, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Misusing a form, such as submitting a first-time application for a renewal, causes delays.

• First-time passport: For U.S. citizens who have never had a passport. Use Form DS-11.[1] This requires an in-person application at an acceptance facility.
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, undamaged, and issued in your current name (or you can document a name change). Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person visit needed.[1] In Pennsylvania, about 70% of applicants qualify for renewal by mail, saving time amid busy local post offices.[2]
• Replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged): Use Form DS-64 to report it (free), then DS-11 or DS-82 depending on eligibility. If replacing within five years of issuance, provide a police report or explanation.[1]
• Child (under 16) passport: Always first-time process with DS-11, both parents/guardians present, and extra documentation.[1]
• Name change, correction, or multiple passports: Special forms like DS-5504 or DS-82 with evidence.[1]

Use the State Department's interactive tool to confirm: answer a few questions online for tailored advice.[3] In Lycoming County, with seasonal travel surges from students and families, confirming eligibility early prevents form mix-ups.

Gather Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Incomplete documentation is a top reason for rejections, especially for minors missing parental consent. Start here. All proofs must be originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.[1]

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (submit original, get it back later):

   • U.S. birth certificate (issued by city, county, or state; hospital certificates invalid).[4]
   • Naturalization Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
   • In Pennsylvania, order birth certificates from the PA Department of Health's vital records office (allow 2-4 weeks processing).[4] Urgent? Use expedited service via VitalChek.[5]

2. Proof of Identity (current, government-issued photo ID):

   • Valid driver's license, military ID, or government employee ID.
   • If no ID, secondary proofs like birth certificate plus Social Security card.

3. Photocopy of ID and Citizenship Document: On plain white 8.5x11" paper, front and back, same size as original.

4. Passport Photo: One 2x2" color photo, taken within 6 months. See photo section below.

5. Form: DS-11 (first-time/child), DS-82 (renewal), etc. Download from State Department site; do not sign DS-11 until instructed.[1]

6. For Minors Under 16:

   • Both parents' presence or notarized consent from absent parent (Form DS-3053).[1]
   • Proof of parental relationship (birth certificate listing parents).

7. Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." Execution fee to facility (cash/check).[6]

   Application Type	Passport Book	Passport Card	Booklet + Card
   Adult First-Time	$130	$30	$160
   Adult Renewal	$130	$30	$160
   Child	$100	$15	$115
   Execution Fee: ~$35 at post offices.[6]

Print this checklist and verify against your situation. Pennsylvania's vital records processing can bottleneck urgent applications, so order documents weeks ahead.[4]

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25% of rejections due to shadows, glare, wrong dimensions, or poor quality.[7] Specs:[7]

• 2x2 inches (51x51mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Color photo on thin photo paper, white/light background.
• Full face, neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary with side view), hats (unless religious/medical), uniforms.
• Even lighting, no shadows on face/background.

Local options in Lycoming County: CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Stores near Williamsport (e.g., 1800 E 3rd St, Williamsport). Confirm they meet State Department standards—many display the specs.[7] Selfies or home prints often fail glare tests. Get extras.

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Kenmar, PA

Kenmar lacks its own facility, so head to nearby Lycoming County spots. High demand means book appointments 4-6 weeks ahead, especially spring/summer and holidays.[8] Use the official locator for hours/availability.[8]

• Williamsport Main Post Office: 200 S Main St, Williamsport, PA 17701. (570) 326-5161. By appointment.[9]
• South Williamsport Post Office: 325 Catawissa Ave, South Williamsport, PA 17702 (closest to Kenmar). (570) 323-5840.[9]
• Jersey Shore Post Office: 127 S Main St, Jersey Shore, PA 17740.[9]
• Lycoming County Clerk of Courts: May accept; call (570) 327-2260 to confirm.[10]

Post offices handle most; clerks of court less so. Arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.

Apply In-Person: Step-by-Step Checklist

For DS-11 applications:

1. Schedule Appointment: Call facility or use online system (e.g., USPS Passport Appointment Scheduler).[11]
2. Complete Form: Fill DS-11 but do not sign.
3. Bring Checklist Items: Docs, photo, fees (two checks: one application/execution).
4. At Facility:
   • Present docs; agent verifies.
   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.
   • Pay fees (agent keeps citizenship doc temporarily).
5. Track Status: Online after 7-10 days.[12]
6. Pickup/Mail: Most mail passport; some offer pickup.

Renewals (DS-82): Mail to address on form. Include old passport.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard: 6-8 weeks (not including mailing).[13] Avoid relying on last-minute processing—peak seasons (spring/summer, winter breaks) in Pennsylvania add delays from high volumes of business travelers, tourists, and students.[13]

• Expedited (extra $60): 2-3 weeks. Request at application.[13]
• Urgent Travel (<14 days): Life-or-death emergency only; call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment at regional agency (e.g., Philadelphia, 4+ hours from Kenmar).[14] Expedited ≠ urgent; confusion here causes issues.
• 1-2 Day Rush: At agencies only, $229+ extra, for proven urgent travel.[14]

Track weekly; no guarantees. In Lycoming, seasonal student exchanges amplify backlogs.[13]

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Children under 16 need both parents/guardians or DS-3053 notarized statement from absent one, plus relationship proof. Both must show ID. No exceptions—frequent rejection reason.[1] Pennsylvania families with exchange students or urgent family trips (e.g., abroad relatives) face extra scrutiny. Apply 8+ weeks early.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Kenmar

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These are not passport issuance offices but serve as the first step in the process, where staff verify your identity, administer the oath, and forward your application to a regional passport agency. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Kenmar, you'll find such facilities scattered across the local area and nearby towns, offering convenient options for residents and visitors alike.

When visiting a passport acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 application form (for first-time applicants or renewals that qualify), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, passport photos meeting official specifications, and payment for application and execution fees. Expect a brief interview, document review, and possibly a wait in line. Most facilities handle applications by appointment or walk-in, but availability varies. Processing times for the passport itself typically range from several weeks to months, with expedited options available for an extra fee. Always check the official State Department website for the latest requirements and to locate facilities via their interactive tool.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities near Kenmar tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays often bring crowds from weekend backlog, and mid-day hours around lunch can get particularly congested due to shift changes and local routines. To navigate this, plan visits for early mornings or later afternoons on weekdays, avoiding the start of the week if possible. Making an appointment in advance—where offered—can save significant time, though walk-ins are common. Monitor seasonal trends cautiously, as unexpected events like school breaks or local festivals may increase traffic. Arrive with all documents organized to streamline your experience and reduce stress.

This setup ensures efficient service amid fluctuating demand, helping you focus on your travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a passport renewal by mail if I live in Kenmar?
Yes, if eligible (passport <15 years old, etc.). Mail DS-82 from any location—no local visit needed.[1]

How do I get a birth certificate fast in Pennsylvania?
Order online via PA Department of Health or VitalChek for expedited (1-5 days extra fee).[4][5] Local Lycoming County Register of Wills doesn't issue state birth certs.[10]

What if my appointment slot is full?
Try nearby facilities like Montoursville Post Office or check daily for cancellations. Peak seasons book fast.[8][9]

Is a Pennsylvania driver's license enough ID?
Yes, if valid and REAL ID compliant (star in corner preferred).[1]

Can I get a passport photo at the post office?
Some do (e.g., Williamsport Main), but call ahead. Specs strictly enforced.[7][9]

What about passport cards for land/sea travel to Canada/Mexico?
Cheaper alternative to full book; apply same process.[1]

How do I handle a name change after marriage?
Include marriage certificate with DS-82 (renewal) or DS-11.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - How to Apply for a Passport
[2]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail
[3]U.S. Department of State - Passport Application Wizard
[4]Pennsylvania Department of Health - Birth Certificates
[5]VitalChek - PA Birth Certificates
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[7]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[8]U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[9]USPS - Passport Services
[10]Lycoming County Government - Clerk of Courts
[11]USPS - Schedule Passport Appointment
[12]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[13]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[14]U.S. Department of State - Urgent Travel