How to Get a Passport in Conway, SC: Facilities & Process Guide

Getting a Passport in Conway, South Carolina

Conway, located in Horry County along South Carolina's coastal region, sees significant passport demand due to its proximity to popular tourist spots like Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. Residents and visitors frequently apply for passports to support international business travel, family vacations, and tourism to Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Seasonal peaks occur in spring and summer for beachgoers heading abroad, as well as winter breaks when South Carolinians escape to warmer destinations. Coastal Carolina University in Conway contributes through student exchange programs and study abroad opportunities, while urgent last-minute trips—such as family emergencies or sudden business needs—add pressure on local facilities. High demand often leads to limited appointment slots at acceptance facilities, so planning ahead is essential [1].

This guide provides a user-focused overview of the process, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines. It covers eligibility, documents, local application sites, and pitfalls to avoid, with realistic expectations for processing times that can vary, especially during peak seasons like spring break or summer travel rushes.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

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

• First-Time Passport: Required if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16. Complete Form DS-11 in person; cannot mail it [1].

• Renewal: Eligible 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. Use Form DS-82 and mail it (or apply in person if preferred). Not available for passports issued over 15 years ago [1].

• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: Report it lost/stolen via Form DS-64 first. Then, use DS-11 (in person) or DS-82 (mail, if eligible) depending on age and issue date. Expedited options apply [1].

• Name Change or Correction: For corrections (e.g., data errors), use DS-5504 within one year of issuance (no fee). Otherwise, treat as renewal or new [1].

• Child (Under 16) Passport: Always first-time equivalent; both parents/guardians must appear or provide consent. Expires after 5 years [1].

South Carolina residents can check eligibility using the State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov [1]. If unsure, contact a local acceptance facility for guidance.

Required Documents and Fees

Gather originals and photocopies (on plain white paper) before applying. Fees are paid separately: application fee to the State Department (check/money order) and execution fee to the facility (cash/card, varies) [2].

Adult First-Time or Child Checklist (Form DS-11):

• Completed DS-11 (unsigned until in person).
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original birth certificate (long form preferred; SC issues via DHEC), naturalization certificate, or previous passport [3].
• Photocopy of citizenship evidence.
• Valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID) and photocopy.
• Passport photo (2x2 inches).
• Fees: $130/$100 book/card adult; $100/$35 child (under 16). Execution fee ~$35 [2].

Renewal Checklist (Form DS-82, by mail):

• Old passport (they'll cancel it).
• Completed DS-82.
• New photo.
• Fees: $130/$30 book/card. No execution fee [2].

For South Carolina birth certificates, order from the SC Department of Public Health (DHEC) Vital Records office online, by mail, or in person at county offices. Horry County residents can visit the Conway location, but allow 1-2 weeks for processing [3]. Certified copies cost $12 first, $3 each additional.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for up to 25% of rejections. Specs: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, taken within 6 months, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses (unless medically required), no hats/selfies/shadows/glare [4].

Local Photo Options in Conway:

• CVS Pharmacy (807 4th Ave) or Walgreens (1411 3rd Ave) offer passport photos for $16.99, with digital previews to check specs.
• USPS locations provide them (~$15).

Common SC challenges: Glare from coastal sunlight or shadows in home setups. Use facilities with proper lighting. Upload to State Department photo tool for validation before applying [4].

Where to Apply in Conway and Horry County

All first-time, child, and replacement applications require in-person visits to a passport acceptance facility. Renewals can be mailed from home. Search iafdb.travel.state.gov for updates, as hours/appointments change [5].

Key Facilities:

• Conway Post Office (290 Elm St, Conway, SC 29526): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm by appointment. Call (843) 248-1330. Handles photos, high volume due to university traffic [6].
• Horry County Clerk of Court (1301 2nd Ave, Conway, SC 29526): Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm. Appointments recommended; probate division assists minors. Phone: (843) 915-5370 [7].
• Coastal Carolina University ID Services (limited; check for student walk-ins during semester).
• Nearby: Myrtle Beach Post Office or North Myrtle Beach for overflow.

Book appointments via the facility's phone or online scheduler (USPS uses usps.com). Peak seasons (spring/summer, winter) book 4-6 weeks out—call early [1].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Conway

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 eligible cases. These facilities do not produce passports themselves; they verify your identity, review your application for completeness, administer the oath, and forward your materials to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Conway, such facilities are typically found in central post offices, local government centers, and community libraries within the city limits, as well as in nearby towns like Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.

When visiting an acceptance facility, come prepared with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your situation), two passport photos meeting strict specifications, valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees (check or money order preferred). Expect a personal interview where staff will confirm your citizenship evidence, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Processing times vary, but standard service takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an extra fee. Facilities handle high volumes, so patience is key—arrive with all documents organized to minimize delays.

Surrounding areas offer additional options, including facilities in larger hubs like Florence or Charleston for those willing to travel slightly farther. Always verify eligibility and requirements via the official State Department website before heading out, as not every location handles all passport services.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities in the Conway area tend to see heavier crowds during peak travel seasons, such as summer vacation months and holidays like spring break or Thanksgiving. Mondays often bring a post-weekend rush, while mid-day slots (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can fill up quickly due to lunch-hour visits. To navigate this, schedule appointments where available, as many facilities now require them to manage flow. Opt for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and avoid weekends if possible. Call ahead or check online calendars for current wait trends, and have backups ready in case of long lines. Planning 4-6 weeks before travel allows buffer for any surprises.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time Adult or Child Applications

Follow this sequentially to minimize errors:

1. Verify eligibility and gather docs (1-2 weeks): Use State Dept wizard. Order birth cert if needed [1][3].
2. Get photo validated (1 day): At pharmacy/USPS; check online tool [4].
3. Complete form: DS-11 unsigned. Print single-sided [1].
4. Make appointment: Call facility 4+ weeks ahead, especially spring/summer [5].
5. Prepare payments: Application fee check to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee cash/card.
6. Attend appointment (allow 30-60 min): Present all, sign DS-11. Get receipt with tracking number.
7. Track status: Online at travel.state.gov (enter receipt #).
8. Receive passport: Mail (or pick-up if specified). Allow routine 6-8 weeks; no hard guarantees during peaks [1].

Expedited/Urgent Checklist:

1. Confirm need: Expedited (2-3 weeks +$60) for non-urgent; urgent (14 days or less, life/death) via agency (LA passport agency, not local) [1].
2. Add fee at acceptance facility.
3. For 14-day urgent: Call 1-877-487-2778 for appointment; prove travel (itinerary) [1].
   • Warning: Facilities won't process last-minute without proof; peaks overwhelm even expedited service.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks processing + mailing (10-13 total). Expedited: 2-3 weeks +$60. Urgent travel (<14 days): Fly to Atlanta Passport Agency (covers SC) with proof—no local option [1].

Avoid relying on last-minute during SC peaks: Myrtle Beach tourism surges fill slots; university breaks add students. Track at travel.state.gov; no refunds for delays [1].

Special Rules for Minors Under 16

Both parents/guardians must appear with child or submit DS-3053 notarized consent (from absent parent). Divorce/death requires custody docs [1]. Horry County Probate Court verifies. Higher rejection rate from incomplete consent—photocopy all.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Limited Appointments: Book early; walk-ins rare. Use multiple facilities if needed.
• Expedited Confusion: Expedited ≠ urgent; urgent requires agency visit/proof.
• Photo Rejections: Shadows/glare common—professional only.
• Docs Issues: SC short-form birth certs often rejected; get long-form [3].
• Renewal Mistakes: Using DS-11 for eligible renewal wastes time/fees.
• Peak Delays: Spring/summer waits double; winter breaks similar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I renew my passport at the Conway Post Office?
No, renewals (DS-82) must be mailed to the State Department. Use post office only for first-time/child [1].

How long does it take to get a passport in Horry County during summer?
Routine 6-8 weeks processing, but appointments scarce—plan 2 months total. Expedited adds cost, not speed guarantee [1].

Do I need an appointment at Horry County Clerk of Court?
Recommended; call ahead. Limited slots for high-demand periods like student travel [7].

What if my child’s other parent can’t attend?
Submit Form DS-3053 notarized consent + ID copy. Both required unless sole custody proven [1].

Can I use a passport card for international air travel?
No, passport card only for land/sea to Canada/Mexico/Caribbean. Book requires full passport [1].

Where do I get a birth certificate in Conway?
Horry County Vital Records (via DHEC) or order online/mail from scdhec.gov. Long-form certified needed [3].

Is there a passport fair in Conway?
Occasionally at Coastal Carolina University or USPS events—check iafdb.travel.state.gov [5].

What if my passport was lost abroad?
Report via DS-64; apply for new upon return. Emergency travel docs possible at embassies [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[3]SC DHEC - Vital Records
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[6]USPS - Conway Post Office
[7]Horry County Clerk of Court