Complete Guide to Passports in Burlington, VT: Apply & Renew

Getting a Passport in Burlington, VT

Burlington, Vermont, sits on the shores of Lake Champlain, just a short drive from the Canadian border, making it a hub for frequent international travel. Residents and visitors often head to Montreal for business meetings, Quebec for cultural exchanges, or Europe during peak summer tourism seasons. Winters bring ski trips to the Alps or Caribbean escapes, while University of Vermont (UVM) students participate in exchange programs worldwide. Spring and summer see surges in family vacations and fall foliage tours abroad, alongside urgent last-minute business trips. These patterns create high demand at local passport acceptance facilities, especially during spring breaks, summer months, and winter holidays, leading to limited appointments and longer wait times. Common hurdles include photo rejections from shadows or glare—exacerbated by Vermont's variable lighting—and confusion over forms for minors or renewals. This guide helps you navigate the process efficiently, drawing from official U.S. Department of State guidelines.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the correct application type avoids delays and rejected submissions. Vermont residents, including those in Chittenden County, follow federal rules but may need local vital records for proofs like birth certificates.

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, use Form DS-11. This requires an in-person application at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or clerk's office in Burlington. No online option exists for first-timers.[1]

Passport Renewal

In Burlington, VT, renewing your eligible passport by mail using Form DS-82 is a convenient, no-travel option—ideal since the nearest passport agencies are hours away. Download the form from travel.state.gov or pick it up at a local post office. Processing times match in-person applications (check current times on the State Department site) and can be expedited for an extra fee.

Quick Eligibility Check

Use this step-by-step guide to confirm you qualify (all must be true):

1. Was your passport issued when you were 16 or older? If no, use DS-11 for first-time application.
2. Was it issued within the last 15 years? If no (e.g., from 2008 or earlier), use DS-11.
3. Do you have the undamaged passport in your possession? Lost, stolen, or damaged? Use DS-11.
4. Are you applying with your exact name, gender, date/place of birth, and no major appearance changes (e.g., no extreme weight loss/gain or hairstyle altering features)? If changing any, use DS-11.

Decision tip: If even one "no," treat it as a new passport with Form DS-11 at a local acceptance facility—don't risk mail rejection and delays.

Mail Renewal Steps

1. Complete DS-82 (print single-sided; do not sign until instructed).
2. Include: your current passport, one new 2x2" color photo (white background, taken within 6 months—get at CVS/Walgreens or UPS Store; specs at travel.state.gov), fees via check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" (no cash/credit cards).
3. Mail in a large envelope via USPS Priority Mail (add tracking for $10–20; use Certified Mail for proof).
4. For expedited (2–3 weeks vs. 6–8 standard): Add $60 fee + 1-2 day return shipping label.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong form: Double-check eligibility—DS-82 rejections waste 4–6 weeks.
• Photo fails: 52% of rejections; eyes open, no glasses/selfies, head size 1–1⅜ inches.
• Payment errors: Exact amount (adult: $130; expedited extra); separate check for execution fee if needed (mail renewals skip this).
• Signing early: Wait for "sign in presence of agent" (skip for mail).
• Incomplete app: Forgetting old passport or photo leads to automatic return.

If ineligible, locate nearby acceptance facilities via travel.state.gov (search by ZIP). Renewals take the same processing time but can be expedited.[1]

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Report it first via Form DS-64 (online or mail).[2] Then:

• If abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy.
• If in the U.S., apply for a replacement using DS-11 (in-person) or DS-82 (mail renewal if eligible). For urgent replacements within 14 days, seek expedited service.

Damaged passports are not renewable; treat as first-time.[1]

Use the State Department's passport wizard for confirmation: https://pptform.state.gov/.[3]

Gather Required Documents and Proofs

Documentation varies by application type. Start early—Vermont vital records offices, like the Burlington City Clerk or Vermont Department of Health, process birth certificates, but delivery can take weeks.[4]

Core Documents for All:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship: U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy), naturalization certificate, or previous undamaged passport. Hospital birth summaries or baptismal certificates don't qualify.[1]
• Proof of identity: Driver's license, government ID, or military ID. Name must match exactly.
• Photocopy of ID and citizenship proof (front/back on standard 8.5x11 paper).

First-Time or Minors (under 16):

• Both parents/guardians present or notarized consent (DS-3053).[1]
• Minors need their own birth certificate.

Name Changes: Court order, marriage certificate, etc.

Order Vermont birth certificates online via VitalChek or from the Vermont Department of Health.[4] Expect 2-4 weeks standard; expedited options add cost.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos account for 25-30% of rejections at Burlington facilities. Specs are strict: 2x2 inches, color, taken within 6 months, white/cream/off-white background, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, no glasses (unless medically required), no hats/selfies.[5]

Burlington Tips:

• Use CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Stores (e.g., 123 College St, Burlington)—confirm passport service.
• DIY pitfalls: Glare from Lake Champlain sunsets, shadows in dim homes, incorrect sizing. Print on matte photo paper; measure precisely.
• Rejections spike in summer due to outdoor lighting issues.

Cost: $15-20. Bring two identical photos.

Find a Passport Acceptance Facility Near Burlington

Chittenden County has several federally approved sites, but book appointments early—slots fill fast during peak seasons (April-June, December-January). Use the official locator.[6]

Key Burlington-Area Facilities:

• Burlington Post Office: 11 Elmwood Avenue, Burlington, VT 05401. (802) 863-2834. Mon-Fri 9AM-3PM by appointment.[7]
• South Burlington Post Office: 86 Hobart Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. (802) 846-0766. Similar hours.[7]
• Essex Post Office: 15 Maple St, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Serves Chittenden County outskirts.

City/town clerks (e.g., Burlington City Clerk at 149 Church St) may offer services—call ahead. No walk-ins; all require appointments via usps.com or phone.[7]

For life-or-death emergencies within 14 days, contact the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778) for possible same-day at regional agencies (nearest: Boston).[8] Urgent travel (trips in 14 days) qualifies for expedited ($60 fee).[1]

Step-by-Step Checklist for In-Person Application (DS-11: First-Time, Minors, Replacement)

Follow this sequentially to minimize errors:

1. Complete Form DS-11: Fill out but do not sign until instructed at the facility. Download from travel.state.gov.[1]
2. Gather Documents: Citizenship proof (original), ID (original + photocopy), two photos.
3. Parental Consent (Minors): Both parents present or DS-3053 notarized. For sole custody, court order.
4. Book Appointment: Use USPS locator or call facility 4-6 weeks ahead, especially pre-summer.[7]
5. Pay Fees: Check/money order payable to "U.S. Department of State" for application fee ($130 adult/$100 child book). Execution fee $35 to facility. Expedited +$60 optional.[1]
6. Attend Appointment: Arrive 15 min early. Sign DS-11 in front of agent. Submit all.
7. Track Status: After 7-10 days, use online tracker.[9]

Renewal by Mail (DS-82) Checklist:

1. Ensure eligibility.
2. Complete DS-82, sign.
3. Include old passport, photo, fee ($130).
4. Mail to address on form (express for expedited).[1]

Fees and Payment

Pay State fee by check/money order; facility fee cash/check/credit. No personal checks for State fee at post offices.[1]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 4-6 weeks (in-person) door-to-door. Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Add 2 weeks for mailing. Peaks (spring/summer, holidays) add 2-4 weeks unpredictably—plan 3+ months ahead. No guarantees; track online.[9]

Vermont Urgent Scenarios: Last-minute business to Canada or student exchanges—expedite if trip in 14-28 days. For <14 days non-emergency, agencies only by appointment (call NPIC).[8] Avoid relying on last-minute during ski season rushes.

Special Considerations for Vermont Residents

• Minors: UVM parents often miss consent forms; get notarized early at banks/USPS.
• Students/Exchanges: UVM international office advises 3 months lead time.
• Proximity to Canada: SENTRI/NEXUS programs need passports first—apply separately.[10]
• Name/Gender Changes: Vermont issues amended birth certs; submit with app.[4]

After You Apply

• Old passport: Returned invalid (hole-punched) ~4 weeks later.
• Track: https://passportstatus.state.gov/ with last name + DOB + fee payment confirmation.[9]
• Errors? Call NPIC weekdays 8AM-10PM ET.
• Received? Verify details before travel.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Burlington

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and process passport applications for first-time applicants, renewals, and certain replacements. These facilities do not issue passports on-site; instead, staff verify your identity, administer the oath, collect your application, photo, identification, and fees, then forward everything to a regional passport agency for final processing. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around Burlington, you'll find such facilities scattered across the city and nearby towns, offering convenient options for residents and visitors alike.

When visiting, come prepared with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your needs), two passport photos meeting State Department specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), valid photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees—typically via check or money order. Expect a short wait for staff assistance, document review, and notarization of your oath. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes per applicant, though group visits or incomplete paperwork can extend this. Facilities may require appointments during high-demand periods, so verify policies in advance through official channels. Applications submitted here typically yield passports in 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited, with tracking available online.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities often see higher traffic during peak travel seasons like summer vacations, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges. Weekdays, especially Mondays, tend to be busier as people catch up after weekends. Mid-day hours, around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., frequently peak due to lunch breaks and shift changes. To minimize waits, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less crowded weekdays like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Always check for seasonal fluctuations and consider booking appointments where offered. Arrive with all documents organized to streamline your visit, and have backups for any requirements. Patience is key, as volumes can vary unpredictably.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Burlington?
No routine same-day service locally. For life/death emergencies <14 days, contact NPIC for agency appointment (e.g., Boston). Expedited is fastest local option.[8]

What if my Burlington appointment is booked?
Try nearby Essex or South Burlington USPS, or check daily for cancellations. Off-peak (fall mid-week) has better availability.[7]

My photo was rejected—what now?
Regret fee; retake immediately. Common Burlington issues: shadows from indoor lights, glare on glasses. Use official specs.[5]

How far in advance for summer travel from Vermont?
8-12 weeks minimum due to seasonal demand for Europe/Quebec trips. Apply by March for June travel.[1]

Can I renew my child's passport by mail?
No—minors always require in-person DS-11, even renewals.[1]

Lost my passport in Burlington—steps?
Report via DS-64 online, then new DS-11 app. If traveling soon, expedite.[2]

Do I need a birth certificate if I have an old passport?
Renewals by mail: no. First-time/replacement: yes, unless naturalized.[1]

Vermont driver's license as ID?
Yes, REAL ID compliant ones accepted. Bring photocopy.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Report Lost/Stolen Passport
[3]U.S. Department of State - Passport Application Wizard
[4]Vermont Department of Health - Vital Records
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[7]USPS - Passport Services
[8]National Passport Information Center
[9]U.S. Department of State - Check Application Status
[10]U.S. Customs and Border Protection - NEXUS

1,652)