Getting a Passport in Lexington, VA: Steps, Facilities & Tips

Getting a Passport in Lexington, VA

Lexington, Virginia, home to Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington and Lee University, experiences high passport demand from international business travelers, tourists, student exchanges, and study abroad programs. Processing peaks align with the academic calendar—spring break (March-April), summer vacations (May-August), semester starts (late August), and winter breaks (December-January)—often causing appointment backlogs at local facilities due to the area's small size and student population. Last-minute needs for urgent family emergencies or business trips exacerbate delays, with standard processing taking 6-8 weeks (or 2-3 weeks expedited). Plan 9-12 months ahead for study abroad; a common mistake is waiting until 4-6 weeks before departure, leading to denied appointments or rushed errors. This guide provides step-by-step clarity, tackling pitfalls like photo rejections (e.g., shadows from uneven lighting or glare from glasses—use neutral backgrounds and natural light), incomplete minor applications (both parents/guardians must sign for under-16s; over-16s need only one but proof of consent if sole parent), and mixing up renewals (eligible if under 15 years expired and issued after age 16) versus new applications. Always cross-check requirements on travel.state.gov, as rules evolve.

Choose the Right Passport Service for Your Situation

Start by matching your circumstances to the optimal service—using the wrong one (e.g., DS-82 renewal form for a first-time application) guarantees rejection and restarts your timeline. Use this decision guide:

• First-time applicant, passport lost/stolen, or expired >15 years ago (or issued before age 16): New passport via DS-11 form. Must apply in person at a local acceptance facility. Common mistake: Signing the form early—do it in front of the agent.
• Eligible to renew (passport issued within 15 years, after age 16, undamaged, and your name hasn't changed significantly): Use DS-82 by mail. Faster and cheaper; decision tip: If travel is imminent (<6 weeks), skip and go expedited in person instead.
• Urgent travel (<4 weeks away): Expedite in person with proof (e.g., itinerary); for life-or-death emergencies, request urgent service with documentation like a death certificate.
• Minors under 16: Always new DS-11 in person with both parents/guardians (or affidavits if one absent). Pitfall: Forgetting ID for all parties—bring driver's licenses or birth certificates.
• Student study abroad or group travel: Opt for routine service early; groups should stagger applications to avoid overwhelming local slots.

If unsure, use the State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov—input your details for form recommendations. Local facilities fill fast, so check availability weekly and have backups like nearby larger cities if needed.

First-Time Passport

You're eligible to apply as a first-time applicant if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous passport was issued when you were under age 16 (and you're now 16 or older). In either case, you must apply in person at a local passport acceptance facility—renewal by mail isn't an option here.

Quick Decision Guide

• First-time? Yes, use Form DS-11.
• Old passport from before age 16? Check the issue date inside; if it was before you turned 16, treat it as first-time.
• Issued at 16+ and less than 15 years old? You may qualify for renewal instead (see that section).
• Common mistake: Assuming a passport from age 15 counts as "adult"—it doesn't if issued before 16.

What to Prepare (and Common Pitfalls)

Bring all originals (no photocopies for proof of citizenship/ID):

• Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until in person—print single-sided).
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: Original birth certificate (or naturalization cert); hospital versions often don't qualify.
• Valid photo ID: Driver's license or military ID (must match name on citizenship proof).
• One passport photo (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months—many pharmacies offer this; DIY photos frequently get rejected for poor lighting/eyes-closed).
• Fees: Checkbook/money order for application fee (paid to State Dept.), cash/certified check for execution fee (paid to facility). Pitfall: Arriving without exact change or separate payments delays everything.
• Name change proof if applicable (marriage cert, etc.).

Pro Tips for Lexington Area

• Facilities have limited hours/slots—call ahead or book online if available to avoid long waits, especially during peak seasons (summer/college breaks).
• Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (or 2-3 expedited); plan ahead for travel.
• Biggest local mistake: Underestimating drive times to facilities during rush hour or events—arrive early with every doc organized in a folder.
• Kids under 16? Both parents/guardians needed, plus their IDs.

Apply early to beat crowds near holidays or school vacations. Track status online after submission.[1]

Renewal

You may qualify to renew by mail if:

• Your passport is undamaged.
• It was issued when you were 16 or older.
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• Your name, gender, date of birth, and place of birth haven't changed.

Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person visit needed. This is faster for eligible applicants but doesn't apply if your passport is lost, stolen, or expired over 15 years ago.[2]

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Report lost or stolen passports immediately using free Form DS-64 online at travel.state.gov (takes ~5 minutes)—this invalidates it to prevent identity theft or misuse, a critical step often skipped, leaving your passport active.

For damaged passports, check if it's "mutilated" (e.g., torn pages, water damage obscuring info); if usable and eligible, renew via DS-82 by mail; otherwise, treat as lost/stolen.

Stateside steps (e.g., Lexington, VA area):

1. Gather: Proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or naturalization cert), valid photo ID (driver's license), one 2x2" color passport photo (white background, no selfies—common mistake: wrong specs lead to rejection), and fees (~$165 adult book + execution fee).
2. Apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility (post offices, libraries, or county clerks—use state.gov locator for nearby options; book appointments early as walk-ins are rare in smaller towns like Lexington).
   • Cannot mail renew (DS-82) for lost/stolen/mutilated—requires surrendering old passport, so DS-11 always for these cases, even if previously eligible for renewal.
3. Processing: Routine 6-8 weeks; add $60 expedite for 2-3 weeks (recommended for travel soon); urgent life-or-death emergencies can get same-day at a passport agency (call 1-877-487-2778 to confirm eligibility).

Decision guidance: Use state.gov eligibility tool first. If travel <6 weeks away and no emergency, apply ASAP with expedite. Common pitfalls: Forgetting DS-64 first (delays approval), bringing copies instead of originals, or assuming renewal works for lost passports.

If abroad, contact nearest U.S. embassy/consulate for emergency passport.[1]

Passports for Minors Under 16

Minors under 16 must apply in person using Form DS-11, with both parents or legal guardians present—or one parent/guardian plus a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) from the absent one. The child must also attend. In areas like Lexington, VA, book appointments early as slots fill quickly at nearby facilities.

Key steps for success:

1. Gather originals: Child's U.S. birth certificate (or Consular Report of Birth Abroad), parents'/guardians' photo IDs, and one passport photo per child (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months—avoid selfies or home prints).
2. If using consent form: Download DS-3053 from travel.state.gov, have it notarized by a U.S.-commissioned notary within 90 days (not older), and include a photocopy of the absent parent's ID.
3. Pay fees: Checkbook or card; execution fee is separate from application fee.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Assuming a copy of the birth certificate works—originals only (returnable after).
• Notarizing the wrong form or letting it expire (must be recent).
• Forgetting the child's presence or photo specs, causing full rejections and delays.
• Single parents/divorced cases: Get court orders or adoption papers if sole custody; otherwise, both consents needed.

Decision guidance: Bring both parents if possible to skip notarization hassles. Use DS-3053 only if travel/schedules conflict—it's reliable but adds prep time. Expedite if trip is soon (extra fee, limited availability). Start 6-9 weeks ahead for standard processing.

Urgent Travel (Within 14 Days)

Expedited service costs extra but doesn't guarantee same-day issuance. Life-or-death emergencies allow in-person at a passport agency (nearest: Washington Dulles, ~2.5 hours away). Don't count on last-minute processing during peak seasons like summer—plan ahead.[4]

Gather Required Documents and Fees

Start collecting proofs of citizenship, ID, photos, and fees early. Virginia residents often face delays getting birth certificates from the state vital records office, especially for older records.[5]

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (hospital versions won't work), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For Virginia births, order from the Virginia Department of Health.[5]
• Photo ID: Valid driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Name must match your application.
• Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo taken within 6 months. Common rejections in Lexington: shadows under eyes/chin, glare on glasses, wrong head size (eyes 1-1 3/8 inches from chin), or non-white background.[6]
• Forms:

  Service	Form	Where to Get
  First-time/Minor/Replacement	DS-11	travel.state.gov or acceptance facility
  Renewal	DS-82	travel.state.gov
  Lost/Stolen Report	DS-64	travel.state.gov

• Fees (as of 2023; check for updates):

  Applicant Type	Application Fee (to State Dept.)	Execution Fee (to Facility)	Expedited (+$60)
  Adult (16+)	$130 (book), $30 (card)	$35	Yes
  Minor (<16)	$100 (book), $15 (card)	$35	Yes

Pay application fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee separately to the facility (cash/check/card).[7] Track your application status online after submission.[8]

Where to Get Passport Services in Lexington and Nearby

Lexington (independent city in Rockbridge County) has limited facilities due to its size (~7,000 residents), so book appointments ASAP—high student demand from VMI/W&L clogs slots in spring/summer. Use the official locator for real-time availability.[9]

• Lexington Post Office (115 S Main St, Lexington, VA 24450): Offers acceptance services by appointment. Call (540) 463-5088 or book via USPS tools.[10]
• Rockbridge County Clerk of Circuit Court (Rockbridge County Courthouse, 150 S Main St, Lexington, VA 24450): Handles passports; shared location with city services. Confirm via phone (540) 463-6632.[11]
• Nearby Options (within 30 miles):

  Facility	Address	Phone
  Buena Vista Post Office	2158 Chestnut Ave, Buena Vista, VA 24416	(540) 261-2361
  Staunton Post Office	207 S Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401 (~25 miles)	(540) 885-4557

Search iafdb.travel.state.gov for the full list and book online/phone. During peaks, drive to larger facilities like Roanoke (~45 min) for more slots. No walk-ins—appointments required.[9]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Lexington

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations where individuals can submit their passport applications for official review before they are forwarded to a regional passport agency for processing. These facilities, often found at post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and certain municipal buildings, do not issue passports on-site but verify applicant eligibility, witness signatures, and ensure all required documents are complete. In the Lexington area, including nearby counties and communities, numerous such facilities provide this service, making it convenient for residents and visitors alike.

When visiting a passport acceptance facility, expect to bring a completed application form (DS-11 for new passports or DS-82 for renewals), proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, passport photos meeting specific size and quality standards, and payment for application and execution fees—typically separated into checks or money orders for different recipients. Agents at these locations will administer the oath, collect fingerprints if required, and may take photos if the facility offers that option. Processing times vary based on application volume and completeness, but standard service takes 6-8 weeks, with expedited options available for an additional fee. Walk-ins are common, though some facilities recommend or require appointments to streamline visits. Always confirm requirements via the official U.S. Department of State website, as policies can evolve.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities in and around Lexington tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons, such as summer months and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and international trips. Mondays often bring crowds from weekend backlog, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) can be particularly congested due to lunch-hour rushes. To navigate this, plan visits early in the week or later in the day, and prioritize off-peak seasons if your timeline allows. Making an advance appointment where available reduces wait times significantly—check facility websites or the State Department's locator tool. Arrive prepared with all documents organized to avoid rescheduling, and consider applying well in advance of travel dates to account for potential delays. Flexibility and preparation are key to a smoother experience.

Step-by-Step Checklist: Routine First-Time or Minor Application

Follow this sequentially to avoid rejections:

1. Complete Form DS-11: Fill online (don't sign until instructed) or at facility. Print single-sided black ink.[2]
2. Obtain Birth Certificate: Order certified copy from Virginia Vital Records (allow 2-4 weeks; expedited available).[5]
3. Get Photo: Use CVS/Walgreens in Lexington or AAA; confirm specs—no selfies.[6]
4. Gather ID: Bring photocopies of front/back of ID and citizenship proof.
5. Book Appointment: Via facility site/phone; aim 6-8 weeks before travel.
6. Pay Fees: Two separate payments.
7. Attend Appointment: Both parents for minors; sign DS-11 in front of agent.
8. Mail or Wait?: Facilities mail to State Dept.; track after 1 week.[8]
9. Follow Up: If delayed > routine times (6-8 weeks routine, 2-3 expedited), contact National Passport Info Center.[4]

Step-by-Step Checklist: Renewal or Expedited Service

1. Verify Eligibility: Use State Dept. wizard.[1]
2. Form DS-82: Complete and sign; include old passport.
3. Photo: Only if old passport >15 years or name change.
4. Fees: Single check to State Dept.; add $19.53 mailing if needed.
5. Mail To: Address on form instructions (expedite to agency if urgent).[2]
6. For Expedite: Include fee, self-addressed prepaid envelope; track via 1-877-487-2778.[4]
7. Urgent?: Nearest agency: Dulles Passport Agency (appointments via 1-877-487-2778).[12]

Warning: Peak seasons (spring/summer/winter) double wait times—apply 9+ weeks early. No hard guarantees on processing.[4]

Special Considerations for Lexington Residents

Students at VMI or W&L: Coordinate with international offices for group appointments; many exchange programs require passports 3 months valid post-trip. Business travelers: Expedite for conferences, but verify visa needs. Families: Minors need parental consent Form DS-3053 if one parent absent—get notarized in advance. Virginia name changes (marriage/divorce) require court orders; update promptly.[3]

Photo tips to dodge rejections: Neutral expression, even lighting, head 1-2 inches from top/bottom. Local spots like Rite Aid (412 N Main St) print compliant ones.[6]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in Lexington?
No—local facilities only accept applications. Nearest passport agency is Dulles (2.5+ hours); book via phone for life/death emergencies only.[4]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited ($60 extra) cuts routine 6-8 weeks to 2-3 weeks. Urgent (within 14 days) requires agency visit; not for non-emergencies.[4]

My passport expired 16 years ago—can I renew?
No, apply as new with DS-11 in person.[1]

Do I need an appointment at the Lexington Post Office?
Yes—call or use USPS locator; slots fill fast with student traffic.[10]

What if my child’s other parent can’t attend?
Submit DS-3053 notarized consent or court order. Both required for approval.[3]

How do I track my application?
Online at passportstatus.state.gov with last name, date/place of birth, last 4 SSN digits (1 week post-submission).[8]

Can I use my Virginia REAL ID for passport ID?
Yes, it's valid proof of ID.[13]

Sources

[1]Passports
[2]Passport Forms
[3]Minors
[4]Processing Times
[5]Virginia Vital Records
[6]Passport Photo Requirements
[7]Passport Fees
[8]Check Status
[9]Acceptance Facility Search
[10]USPS Passports
[11]Rockbridge County Clerk
[12]Passport Agencies
[13]REAL ID