Getting a Passport in Burlington, WI: Facilities, Forms, Tips

Getting a Passport in Burlington, WI

Burlington, Wisconsin, in Racine County, serves residents who travel internationally for business to Europe and Asia, family vacations to Mexico and the Caribbean, or seasonal getaways like summer lake trips abroad or winter ski escapes. Local students from nearby universities, such as University of Wisconsin-Parkside, often need passports for study abroad, while family emergencies or last-minute cruises from Milwaukee ports create urgent demand. Peak seasons (spring break, summer, and holidays) strain local acceptance facilities, leading to long waits—plan 4-6 weeks ahead for routine service or use expedited options. This guide equips you to avoid pitfalls like passport photo rejections (e.g., shadows from indoor lighting, glare from glasses, or uneven backgrounds), incomplete minor consent forms (missing both parents' signatures or IDs), form errors (using wrong DS-11 vs. DS-82), and overlooking proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., forgetting certified birth certificate copy).[1]

All passport services are managed by the U.S. Department of State. Most Burlington residents must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility, except for eligible renewals by mail. Confirm your travel date first: routine processing takes 6-8 weeks (or 2-3 weeks expedited, plus fees); life-or-death emergencies qualify for same-day at regional agencies.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Assess your situation using this decision guide to pick the correct form and process—missteps like submitting a first-time application by mail cause automatic returns and delays of weeks.

• First-time applicant (including name changes >1 year ago or under 16)? Use Form DS-11; must apply in person. Bring original proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate—photocopies not accepted), ID, photo, and fees. Common mistake: Assuming a photocopy suffices; always present originals.

• Renewing an expired passport (issued when 16+, within 5 years, undamaged)? Use Form DS-82 by mail if eligible. Otherwise, treat as new (DS-11 in person). Decision tip: Check your old passport's issue date and condition; if over 15 years old or issued before age 16, do DS-11. Pitfall: Mailing ineligible renewals—use the State Department's online eligibility tool.

• Lost, stolen, or damaged passport? Report it online first, then apply via DS-11 (or DS-64/DS-64R for reporting only). Include police report if stolen. Guidance: Expedite if travel is soon; form fees apply even without a passport book.

• Child under 16? DS-11 in person with both parents/guardians (or sole custody proof). Valid only 5 years. Common error: One parent showing up without notarized consent from the other—get Form DS-3053 ahead.

• Urgent needs? Add expedited service ($60 extra, 2-3 weeks) or 1-2 day delivery ($21.36). For extreme urgency (travel <14 days), call the National Passport Information Center after booking an appointment.

Download forms from travel.state.gov; complete but don't sign until instructed. Use the online wizard for accuracy.

First-Time Passport

• Eligibility: Applies to U.S. citizens age 16 or older who have never held a U.S. passport book or card. In Burlington, WI, this is common for adults applying after turning 16 or those whose prior passport (issued under 16) is expired.
• When it's also required: If your previous passport was issued before age 16, is damaged beyond recognition or usability (e.g., water damage, torn pages), or was issued more than 15 years ago—even if it's still valid for travel. Decision tip: Check your passport's issue date; if over 15 years old, treat it as first-time regardless of expiration.
• Application process: Use Form DS-11 (download from travel.state.gov or pick up locally); you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. Do not sign until instructed.
  • Required documents (originals + photocopies): Proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or prior undamaged passport), valid photo ID (driver's license or military ID), and a second ID if your primary doesn't match your birth name.
  • Photo: One 2x2" color photo taken within 6 months (many local pharmacies like Walgreens offer this for ~$15; avoid selfies or copies).
  • Fees: ~$130 application fee (check or money order) + $35 execution fee (cash/check); optional expediting adds $60+.
• Common mistakes to avoid:
  • Using Form DS-82 (that's for renewals only—biggest error in small towns like Burlington).
  • Mailing the application (DS-11 cannot be mailed; leads to rejection).
  • Forgetting certified birth copies or bringing only originals (photocopy both sides on standard paper).
  • Underestimating wait times—Burlington-area facilities often book weeks out; apply 10-13 weeks before travel.
• Pro tip for Burlington residents: Facilities here fill quickly due to high demand from nearby communities; check availability early via the official State Department locator tool and bring everything organized in a folder to speed things up.[2]

Renewal

• Eligibility Checklist (confirm all apply to qualify):

  • Passport is undamaged—no tears, water damage, alterations, or missing pages (minor everyday wear is usually fine).
  • Issued when you were age 16 or older.
  • Issued within the last 15 years (check the issue date, not expiration).
  • In your current legal name, or include proof of name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
    Decision tip: If any don't apply (especially damage or age/issue date), default to first-time process to avoid rejection delays.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Submitting a damaged passport anyway (it'll be returned unprocessed).
  • Forgetting original documents for name changes (copies often rejected).
  • Using an old or non-compliant photo (must be 2x2 inches, color, white background, taken within 6 months—no selfies or prints from home).
  • Incorrect fees or payment method (check usps.com or state.gov for current amounts; personal checks or money orders preferred for mail-in).

• If eligible, complete Form DS-82 for convenient mail-in renewal—no in-person visit needed, ideal if local facilities have long waits or limited hours. Include your old passport, photo, fees, and any name change docs. Track via USPS for peace of mind.

• Not eligible? Apply in person as first-time using Form DS-11 (cannot mail). Bring ID, photo, fees, and old passport (if you have one).

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

• Lost or Stolen Passports:
  • Report immediately via free Form DS-64 (online at travel.state.gov/passport or mail) to invalidate it and prevent fraud—do this first, even before replacing.
  • Common mistake: Waiting to report, which risks misuse or delays your replacement.
  • Then apply for replacement:

    Scenario	Form	Method	Key Eligibility
    Standard renewal possible	DS-82	Mail (cheaper, ~6-8 weeks)	Issued <15 years ago at age 16+, same name (or legal change), U.S. mailing address, not damaged/lost.
    Not eligible (e.g., first-time, child, major name change)	DS-11	In person at WI acceptance facility (post office, library, or clerk—use State Dept. locator for Burlington-area options)	Always required for new issuance; ~6-8 weeks standard, expedited available.

  • Decision guidance: Use State Dept. wizard at travel.state.gov; if lost recently or unsure, go DS-11 to avoid rejection/return mail delays. Include police report if stolen (recommended, not required).
• Damaged Passports:
  • Never renewable—treat as invalid (e.g., water damage, tears, holes, or alterations); always replace in person with DS-11.
  • Common mistake: Mailing with DS-82, leading to automatic return and wasted fees/time.
  • Submit damaged passport with application (government will shred it); photos must be new.[2]

Additional Passport (e.g., for Frequent Travelers)

• If you travel internationally frequently from the Burlington, WI area (e.g., multiple business or leisure trips via nearby Midwest hubs), and expect to need two passports simultaneously—such as when one is sent to a foreign consulate for visa processing—request a second passport book at the same time as your primary application or renewal.[1] This prevents delays from waiting 6-8 weeks (or longer during peak seasons) for return of your first book.
• Eligibility check: You must prove overlapping travel needs with evidence like confirmed itineraries or visa appointment letters; frequent travel alone doesn't qualify—denials are common without proof.
• Common mistakes to avoid:
  • Applying for a second book separately (always request both together to save time and fees).
  • Assuming it's automatic—specify "second passport book" clearly on Form DS-82 (adult renewal) or DS-11 (new passport), and include $30 execution fee per book if applicable.
  • Forgetting both books must expire on the same date.
• Decision guidance: Ideal if you have 2+ trips booked within 3 months where visas are required; otherwise, stick to one book to minimize costs (each is $130+ for adults). Processing is federal, so expect standard timelines regardless of location.

For Children Under 16

• Always first-time process with DS-11; both parents/guardians must appear or provide consent.[3]

Use the State Department's interactive tool to confirm: answer a few questions for tailored guidance.[4]

Passport Acceptance Facilities Near Burlington, WI

Burlington lacks a passport agency (those are for urgent cases only, like Milwaukee's at 310 W. Wisconsin Ave.). Instead, use acceptance facilities for routine/book/bookmark applications. High demand means booking appointments early—spring/summer and winter breaks see backlogs.[1]

• Burlington Post Office: 701 N. Pine St., Burlington, WI 53105. Offers passport services; call (262) 763-3517 or check online for hours/appointments. Popular for convenience.[5]
• Racine County Clerk of Circuit Court: 2300 DeKoven Ave., Racine, WI (about 20 miles away). Handles passports; appointments recommended via racinecounty.com.[6]
• Other Nearby: Union Grove Post Office (10 miles), Waterford Post Office (15 miles), or libraries like Burlington Public Library (may offer group sessions seasonally).[5]

Find exact locations and availability with the official locator.[7] Arrive 15-30 minutes early; no walk-ins during peaks.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time or Replacement Applications (DS-11)

Follow this checklist meticulously to avoid rejections, which spike from incomplete docs or photos.

1. Fill Out Form DS-11 (but do not sign until instructed at facility).

   • Download from state.gov; print single-sided on white paper.[2]
   • List all names used; include Social Security number.

2. Gather Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original + photocopy).

   • Birth certificate (WI-issued from vital records), naturalization certificate, etc.
   • WI residents: Order from WI DHS Vital Records if needed ($20+).[8]

3. Proof of Identity (original + photocopy).

   • Valid driver's license, military ID, etc. WI Enhanced ID works.[9]

4. Passport Photo (two identical 2x2" color photos).

   • Taken within 6 months; white/neutral background, no glasses/selfies.[10]
   • Common issues: Shadows under eyes/chin, glare on forehead, head not 1-1 3/8" tall, smiling/open mouth.
   • Local options: CVS/Walgreens in Burlington (e.g., 601 Milwaukee Ave.); confirm specs.[10]

5. Parental Awareness/Authorization for Minors (if under 16).

   • Both parents appear, or one with Form DS-3053 notarized by other.[3]

6. Fees (check/money order; two payments).

   • Application: $130 adult/$100 child (to State Dept).[11]
   • Execution: $35 (to facility).[11]
   • Expedited: +$60.[11]

7. Book Appointment and submit in person.

   • Sign DS-11 in front of agent.

8. Track Status online after 7-10 days.[12]

Pro Tip: Photocopy everything single-sided; facilities provide witnesses/notarizations if needed.

Renewals by Mail (DS-82)

Simpler for eligible applicants—ideal for Burlington's busy professionals.

Checklist:

1. Complete DS-82; sign/dates.[2]
2. Include current passport.
3. Photo, fees ($130 adult book).[11]
4. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.[13]
5. Use USPS Priority ($19+ tracking).[5]

Not eligible? Use DS-11 process above.

Fees, Processing Times, and Expedited Options

Avoid relying on last-minute processing during WI's peak seasons (March-June, Dec-Jan)—demand surges 50%+.[1] Expedited ≠ guaranteed urgent; for travel within 14 days, prove with itinerary and visit Milwaukee Passport Agency (appointment via 1-877-487-2778).[14] No refunds.

Payments: Check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee cash/check to facility.[11]

Special Considerations for Minors and Families

Wisconsin families with students or exchange programs face extra hurdles. Children under 16 require:

• Both parents/guardians present or DS-3053 from absent one (notarized).[3]
• Common rejection: Missing consent or photo (must show full face, no toys).
• Validity: 5 years max.

For adoptees or name changes, extra docs like court orders.[1]

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

• Appointment Shortages: Book 4-6 weeks ahead via facility sites; peaks hit Racine County hard.[7]
• Photo Rejections (25% of issues): Use State Dept specs exactly; professional services reduce glare/shadows.[10]
• Docs: WI birth certificates often delayed; order early from Madison.[8]
• Renewal Confusion: Over 15 years old? DS-11 only.[2]
• Urgent Travel: Document flights/hotels; agencies prioritize emergencies, not vacations.[14]

Tracking and Aftercare

After submission, track at travel.state.gov (wait 7 days).[12] Passports arrive via USPS (signature required); notify if lost in mail.[1]

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Burlington

Passport acceptance facilities are official locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These include various post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings in Burlington and surrounding areas. They do not issue passports on the spot but verify your identity, review your forms, administer oaths, and forward your application to a regional passport agency for processing. Expect to provide a completed DS-11 form (for first-time applicants or renewals that don't qualify for mail-in), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos (often available on-site for a fee), and application fees payable by check or money order.

When visiting, arrive prepared with all documents organized to minimize delays. Facilities typically handle both routine (6-8 weeks) and expedited (2-3 weeks) services for an extra fee, though urgent travel needs may require a passport agency appointment elsewhere. Not all locations offer every service, such as children's passports or execution fees, so research ahead via the State Department's website. Nearby options in adjacent towns expand availability, especially for those in rural outskirts, but confirm eligibility before traveling.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport offices tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer, spring breaks, and holidays, when demand surges for vacations and family visits. Mondays often bring crowds from weekend backlog, while mid-day slots (around noon to 2 p.m.) fill quickly due to lunch-hour walk-ins. Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays may offer shorter waits, but this varies.

To plan effectively, check for appointment systems where available, as many facilities now require or recommend them to manage flow. Arrive early with extras of all documents, and monitor the official passport website for updates on processing times or temporary closures. Avoid last-minute rushes by applying 3-6 months before travel, and consider mail renewal if eligible to bypass lines altogether. Patience and preparation ensure a smoother experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a passport same-day in Burlington?
No routine same-day service locally. Urgent cases go to Milwaukee agency with proof of <14-day travel.[14]

What's the difference between expedited and urgent service?
Expedited speeds routine to 2-3 weeks (+$60). Urgent (life/death or imminent travel) requires agency visit; not for expedited.[14]

Do I need an appointment at Burlington Post Office?
Yes, especially peaks; call or check usps.com.[5]

My passport photo was rejected—what now?
Retake meeting exact specs: 2x2", recent, neutral expression.[10] Local pharmacies comply.

How do I replace a lost passport while abroad?
Contact U.S. Embassy; expedite return travel docs.[1]

Can I renew a child's passport by mail?
No, always in-person with DS-11.[3]

Is a WI Real ID sufficient for identity proof?
Yes, with citizenship proof.[9]

What if I need my passport for a cruise?
Passport card suffices for closed-loop cruises.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[3]U.S. Department of State - Children Under 16
[4]U.S. Department of State - Apply Wizard
[5]USPS - Passport Services
[6]Racine County Clerk
[7]Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[8]Wisconsin DHS - Vital Records
[9]DHS - REAL ID
[10]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[11]U.S. Department of State - Passport Fees
[12]U.S. Department of State - Track My Application
[13]U.S. Department of State - Renew by Mail
[14]U.S. Department of State - Get Fast