Passport Guide for Wyndham VA: Forms, Facilities, Fees & Tips

Getting a Passport in Wyndham, VA

Wyndham, a community in Henrico County, Virginia, sees frequent international travel among residents due to business hubs like Innsbrook and proximity to Richmond International Airport. Tourism peaks in spring and summer, while winter breaks and student exchange programs add seasonal surges. Last-minute trips for family emergencies or urgent business are common, but high demand at acceptance facilities often leads to limited appointments. To avoid delays, start planning 4-6 months ahead, especially during peak times. This guide covers everything from eligibility to application, drawing on official requirements to help you navigate common pitfalls like photo rejections or incomplete forms for minors.[1]

Choose the Right Passport Service

Before gathering documents, identify your specific need. Using the wrong form or process can cause rejections and extra trips. Virginia's travel patterns—business flights to Europe/Asia, family vacations to the Caribbean, and student programs in Europe—mean many residents qualify for simpler renewals, but first-timers or lost passports require in-person steps.

First-Time Applicants or Major Name Changes

If you've never had a U.S. passport, your previous one is expired more than 15 years, or you're changing your name due to marriage/divorce/adoption (not a minor correction), apply in person using Form DS-11. This applies to adults and minors alike. Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents present.[1]

Renewals

You may renew by mail if your passport:

• Was issued when you were 16 or older.
• Was issued within the last 15 years.
• Is undamaged and in your possession (not reported lost/stolen).
• You're using the same name or can legally document a name change.

Use Form DS-82 for adults (16+ at issuance). This is faster and skips acceptance facilities—mail directly to the State Department. Not eligible? Fall back to DS-11 in person. Common confusion: Many Wyndham parents try renewing minors' passports by mail, but kids always need DS-11.[1]

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

• Undamaged but pages full: Use DS-82 (renewal) or DS-11.
• Lost/stolen/damaged: Report via Form DS-64 (free replacement eligibility after 60 days), then DS-5504 (within 1 year of issuance) or DS-11 (over 1 year). Provide a police report for theft if possible. Business travelers often face this during frequent trips—file Form 64 online first.[1]

Gather Required Documents: Preparation Checklist

Incomplete documentation is a top rejection reason, especially for minors needing parental consent. Virginia residents often need birth certificates from the Virginia Department of Health or local vital records offices in Henrico County. Order early—processing can take weeks.[2]

Step-by-Step Preparation Checklist:

1. Confirm identity/evidence of citizenship: Valid U.S. birth certificate (original/certified, not photocopy), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For births in Virginia, request from VDH Vital Records.[2] Hospital certificates or baptismal records don't count.
2. Proof of identity: Driver's license, military ID, or government-issued photo ID. Name must match exactly—no nicknames.
3. Social Security number: Provide on form (no card needed). Exception: Religious exemption affidavit.
4. For minors under 16: Both parents' IDs/presence, or sole custody docs/court order. Parental consent form if one parent absent.
5. Photos: Two identical 2x2-inch color photos (details below). Digital selfies often fail specs.
6. Form: Fill out but don't sign DS-11 until instructed. Download from State Department site.[1]
7. Fees: Check, money order, or credit card (varies by facility).[3]

Photocopy everything front/back. Henrico parents: Minors' apps spike during summer breaks—get parental IDs notarized if traveling solo.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections due to glare from glasses, headwear shadows, or wrong size. Specs are strict—no smiles, neutral expression, plain white/cream background, taken within 6 months.[1]

• Dimensions: Exactly 2x2 inches (51x51mm), head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• Quality: Recent color photo on matte/photo paper, even lighting (no glare/shadows), eyes open facing camera.
• Where to get in Wyndham area: CVS/Walgreens (e.g., 12600 W Broad St, Short Pump), UPS Stores, or post offices like Deep Run. Many offer on-site service for $15-20. Avoid home printers—agents spot them easily.[3]

Pro tip: Wear what you won't wear traveling (no uniforms). For head coverings (religious/medical), face fully visible.

Find an Acceptance Facility Near Wyndham

Wyndham lacks its own facility, so head to Henrico County spots. High demand means book appointments 4-6 weeks ahead via facility websites or USPS locator—walk-ins rare during peaks.[3] Search "passport acceptance facility" on iafdb.travel.state.gov for real-time availability.[4]

Recommended nearby (within 10 miles):

• Deep Run Post Office: 3811 Gaskins Rd, Henrico, VA 23233. Phone: (804) 784-2781. Appointments required; offers photos.[3]
• Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk: 4301 E Parham Rd, Henrico, VA 23228. County residents priority; weekdays only.[5]
• Glen Allen Post Office: 1474 N Parham Rd, Henrico, VA 23229. Busy—call ahead.[3]

Use USPS tool for exact hours/fees.[3] Business travelers: Early morning slots fill fast.

Fees and Payment

Expect $130+ adult/100+ child execution fee (to facility) + $30 acceptance fee. Add State Dept fees: $130 book/100 card (under 16). Expedited: +$60. Urgent: +$21.50 + overnight shipping.[1][3]

• Pay execution/acceptance fees separately (check/money order to facility).
• State fees: Check/money order to "U.S. Department of State."

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 10-13 weeks (in-person)—no tracking until mailed.[1] Peaks (spring/summer, Dec-Jan) add 2-4 weeks; don't count on last-minute during student breaks or holidays.

• Expedited: +$60, 4-6 weeks (2-3 in-person). Trackable.
• Urgent (within 14 days): Life-or-death only (+$21.50 + shipping). Proof required (obit/letter). Business "urgent" doesn't qualify—plan ahead.[1]
• 1-2 day: At agencies in DC/Atlanta (not local); appointment via 1-877-487-2778.[1]

Warning: Facilities can't expedite; that's State Dept. Track at travel.state.gov.[1]

Step-by-Step Application Day Checklist

In-Person Checklist (DS-11):

1. Arrive 15 min early with all docs/photos/forms (unsigned).
2. Present to agent; swear oath and sign DS-11 in their presence.
3. Pay fees exactly as specified.
4. Receive receipt—passport mails in 10-13 weeks (routine).
5. Note application locator number for tracking.

Mail Renewal Checklist (DS-82/DS-5504):

1. Complete/sign form.
2. Include old passport, photo, fees (two checks).
3. Mail to address on form instructions (National Passport Processing Center).[1]
4. Track via email alerts.

For replacements, attach DS-64 confirmation.

After You Apply

• Track status online (need locator #).[1]
• Can't travel? Request DS-5525 for in-transit emergency.
• Received but errors? Contact immediately.
• Renew early (up to 1 year before expiration) for validity extension.

Urgent scenarios: Nearest passport agency is in Washington, DC (3-hour drive)—for verified emergencies only.[1]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Wyndham

Passport acceptance facilities are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to handle new passport applications and renewals. These locations review your paperwork, witness your signature on the application, collect fees, and forward your sealed application to a regional processing center. They do not process or issue passports themselves, so expect standard turnaround times of 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited, plus mailing time. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings, many of which are conveniently scattered throughout Wyndham and surrounding communities.

When visiting, come prepared with a completed DS-11 form for first-time applicants (or DS-82 for eligible renewals), two identical 2x2-inch passport photos, original proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment (check or money order preferred; some accept cards). Staff will verify documents for completeness, administer the oath, and notarize if needed. Appointments are often recommended or required at busier spots, and walk-ins may face waits. In the Wyndham area, facilities are typically accessible by car or public transit, with ample parking at most sites. Larger post offices and government buildings in nearby towns offer extended services, while smaller branches handle basics efficiently.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities in and around Wyndham tend to see heavier traffic during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when application volumes surge. Mondays often start with backlogs from weekend submissions, and mid-day periods (roughly 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are usually the most crowded due to overlapping lunch hours and shift changes. Weekends may have limited hours or no service at some spots.

To plan effectively, verify availability in advance through official channels, as schedules can vary seasonally. Opt for early morning visits (before 9 a.m.) or late afternoon slots to dodge peaks. If appointments are offered, book them promptly online or by phone. Double-check all documents at home to avoid rejections, and consider off-peak days like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Patience is key—arrive with extras like additional photos or photocopies, and be ready for security screening at government sites. This approach minimizes delays and ensures a smoother experience amid fluctuating demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Wyndham?
No local same-day service. Nearest agencies are regional; routine/expedited only via mail post-acceptance. Plan 10+ weeks minimum.[1]

My child’s passport expired—can I renew by mail?
No, minors always require DS-11 in person with both parents.[1]

What if my passport was stolen on a business trip?
Report via DS-64 online/phone, then DS-5504/DS-11. Police report helps but not required.[1]

How do I prove U.S. citizenship if born in Virginia?
Certified birth certificate from VDH Vital Records ($12+).[2] Order online/mail.

Are appointments required at Henrico post offices?
Yes, most—book via USPS site or phone. Walk-ins limited.[3]

Can I expedite for a vacation in 3 weeks?
Expedited may work (4-6 weeks), but peaks delay. Urgent travel service is life/death only—not vacations.[1]

What if my photo is rejected?
Retake immediately—common issues: glare, size, expression. Facilities often provide service.[1]

Do I need my Social Security card?
No, just the number on the form.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Virginia Department of Health - Vital Records
[3]USPS - Passport Services
[4]State Department - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[5]Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk