Getting a Passport in Lakewood, SC: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Your Passport in Lakewood, SC

Lakewood, a small community in Sumter County, South Carolina, sits near major hubs like Columbia and Charleston, making it convenient for residents planning international trips. South Carolina sees frequent international travel for business—especially around military bases like Shaw Air Force Base—tourism to Europe and the Caribbean, and student exchange programs through universities like Clemson or USC. Seasonal peaks occur in spring/summer for vacations and winter breaks for holidays abroad, alongside urgent needs like last-minute family emergencies or job relocations. However, high demand at acceptance facilities can lead to limited appointments, so planning ahead is key.[1]

Common hurdles include photo rejections from shadows, glare, or wrong dimensions; incomplete paperwork, particularly for minors; and confusion over renewals versus new applications. Expedited service doesn't always cover travel within 14 days—urgent options exist but require in-person proof at a passport agency.[2] This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, tailored to Lakewood residents, with checklists and local options.

Choose the Right Passport Service

Before gathering documents, determine your needs. Using the wrong form delays processing.

• First-Time Passport: Required if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16; also for any passport issued over 15 years ago.[3]
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you were over 16 at issuance, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 by mail—no in-person visit needed.[3]
• Replacement: For lost, stolen, or damaged passports. Use Form DS-64 to report it, then DS-11 (in-person) or DS-82 (mail) depending on eligibility.[4]
• Name Change/Corrections: If your passport matches your current ID but not other docs (e.g., marriage), renew or replace as above.[3]

Residents often mix up renewals, leading to unnecessary trips. Check your old passport first.[3]

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or Replacement Passports

Follow this checklist in order. Incomplete applications are rejected, causing delays—especially during SC's busy seasons.

1. Fill Out Form DS-11: Download from travel.state.gov. Do not sign until instructed at the facility. Complete online and print single-sided.[2]
2. Gather Primary ID: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. If no photo ID, use secondary like birth certificate + Social Security card.[2]
3. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (SC issues via DHEC), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Photocopies not accepted as primary proof.[5]
4. Get Passport Photos: Two identical 2x2-inch color photos on white background, taken within 6 months. No selfies—use CVS, Walgreens, or USPS in Sumter.[6]
5. For Minors Under 16: Both parents' presence or notarized consent (Form DS-3053). Divorce decrees or custody papers if applicable.[2]
6. Calculate Fees: Application fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee payable to facility (cash/check/credit varies).[1]
7. Book Appointment: Call or use online system for facilities (details below). Walk-ins rare.
8. Attend Appointment: Submit unsigned DS-11, sign in front of agent, pay fees. Receive receipt—track online.[7]
9. Track Status: Use passportstatus.state.gov with receipt number.[7]

Print this checklist and check off as you go. For renewals, skip to the mail-in process below.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of rejections nationwide, higher in high-volume areas like SC during peaks.[6] Specs per U.S. Department of State:

• 2x2 inches (51x51mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• White/cream/off-white background.
• Full face, front view, eyes open, neutral expression.
• No glasses (unless medically required), hats, uniforms, shadows, glare, or heavy makeup.
• Color photo <6 months old.[6]

Local options in Sumter County:

• CVS Pharmacy (e.g., 1850 Thomas Sumter Hwy, Sumter): $16.99, digital preview.[8]
• AAA (if member): Often free.[9]
• Sumter Post Office: On-site service.[10]

Test lighting: Hold photo to light—no glare. SC humidity can cause issues; dry photos overnight.

Where to Apply Near Lakewood

Lakewood lacks a dedicated facility, so head to Sumter (10-15 min drive). High demand means book 4-6 weeks ahead, especially spring/summer.[10]

• Sumter Main Post Office: 118 S Harvin St, Sumter, SC 29150. Phone: (803) 775-3211. Mon-Fri 9AM-3PM by appointment via usps.com. Execution fee $35.[10]
• Sumter County Clerk of Court: 141 N Main St, Sumter, SC 29150. Phone: (803) 436-2330. Check sumtercountysc.gov for passport hours; often probate office handles.[11]
• Nearest Passport Agency: Columbia Passport Agency (200 W. St. Julian Place, Columbia, SC 29201), 45 miles away. For urgent travel <14 days only; appointment via 1-877-487-2778.[12]

For mail renewals: Send DS-82 to National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[3]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Lakewood

Obtaining a passport in the Lakewood area involves visiting passport acceptance facilities, which are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and seal passport applications. These facilities do not issue passports themselves but forward applications to a regional passport agency for processing. Common types include post offices, county clerk offices, public libraries, and municipal buildings scattered throughout Lakewood and nearby communities like Long Beach, Torrance, and Carson. Availability can vary, so it's essential to verify participation through official channels before visiting.

At these facilities, expect a straightforward but thorough process. Applicants must arrive with a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants or renewals ineligible for mail-in), proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting exact specifications (2x2 inches, white background, recent), and payment for application and execution fees—typically via check or money order. Minors under 16 require both parents' presence or notarized consent. Facilities often provide basic photo services or forms on-site, but lines can form, and walk-ins may face delays. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an extra fee. Always double-check requirements on the official State Department website to avoid rejection.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays are often the busiest weekday due to weekend backlog, and mid-day hours (roughly 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) typically draw the largest crowds as people schedule around work. Weekends, if offered, can also fill quickly.

To plan effectively, research facilities in advance and book appointments where available—many now require them online or by phone. Aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less hectic days like mid-week. Prepare all documents meticulously and arrive 15-30 minutes early. If urgency arises, consider expedited services or a passport agency in a larger city, but brace for potential waits regardless of timing. Patience and preparation go a long way in streamlining your visit.

Processing Times and Expediting

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail time included). Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Avoid promises—peaks add delays.[1]

For urgent SC travel (e.g., medical emergencies), bring itinerary/proof to agency. No last-minute guarantees during holidays.[2] Track weekly at travel.state.gov.

Special Cases: Minors and Renewals

Minors: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide DS-3053 (notarized). SC birth certificates via DHEC (order online/mail; $12 first copy).[5] Common issue: Missing parental consent delays families on student trips.

Renewals by Mail: Eligible? Mail DS-82, old passport, photo, fees. SC mail volume high—use USPS Priority ($19+ tracking).[3] If ineligible, treat as new.

Lost/Stolen: Report via DS-64 online first, then apply. Prevent identity theft—monitor credit.[4]

Step-by-Step Checklist for Renewals by Mail

1. Confirm Eligibility: Passport <15 years old, issued at 16+, undamaged.[3]
2. Complete DS-82: Online preferred; print single-sided.[3]
3. Attach Old Passport and Photo.
4. Fees: $130 check to "U.S. Department of State".
5. Mail Securely: USPS Priority Express to Philadelphia address.[3]
6. Track: No online status for renewals; allow 6-8 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Lakewood?
No. Nearest agency in Columbia requires <14-day urgent proof; routine takes weeks. Plan ahead.[2]

What if my birth certificate is from SC but lost?
Order certified copy from SC DHEC Vital Records: scdhec.gov/vital-records or (803) 898-3630. $12 + shipping; allow 1-2 weeks.[5]

Do I need an appointment at Sumter Post Office?
Yes, book via usps.com or call. Limited slots fill fast in peak seasons.[10]

My photo was rejected—what now?
Retake meeting exact specs. Common SC issues: Glare from fluorescent lights, shadows under eyes.[6]

How much for a child's passport?
$100 application + $35 execution (no expedited savings). Valid 5 years.[1]

Can I renew if my passport expires soon but I travel in 3 weeks?
Expedite new/renewal application. Include itinerary for faster review, but no guarantees.[1]

What if one parent can't attend for minor's passport?
Notarized DS-3053 from absent parent. Must include ID copy.[2]

Is a Real ID driver's license enough proof?
Yes, as primary photo ID for adults.[2]

Sources

[1]Passports - Travel.gov
[2]Apply In Person for a Passport - Travel.gov
[3]Renew an Adult Passport - Travel.gov
[4]Lost or Stolen Passports - Travel.gov
[5]Vital Records - SC DHEC
[6]Passport Photo Requirements - Travel.gov
[7]Check Application Status - Travel.gov
[8]Passport Photos - CVS
[9]Passport Photos - AAA
[10]USPS Passport Services
[11]Sumter County SC Government
[12]Passport Agencies - Travel.gov