Getting a Passport in De Pere, Wisconsin: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a Passport in De Pere, Wisconsin

De Pere, located in Brown County, Wisconsin, is a growing community near Green Bay with residents who frequently travel internationally for business, family visits, and tourism. Many locals head to Europe, Mexico, or Asia for work conferences or vacations, while University of Wisconsin-Green Bay students participate in exchange programs. Travel spikes in spring and summer for family trips and winter breaks for escapes to warmer destinations. Last-minute trips for emergencies or opportunities are common, but high demand at passport facilities during these peaks can lead to limited appointments [1]. This guide helps De Pere residents navigate the process efficiently, addressing common pitfalls like photo rejections, form mix-ups, and processing delays.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Choosing the right service prevents wasted trips and fees. The U.S. Department of State handles all passports, but your situation dictates the form and facility [2].

First-Time Applicants

If you've never held a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued when you were under age 16, submit Form DS-11 in person at a passport acceptance facility—mail-in is not allowed. This is typical for young adults turning 16+, new parents applying for infants, or anyone whose child passport (valid only 5 years) has expired [2].

Practical clarity for De Pere, WI residents:
Acceptance facilities are conveniently available nearby at places like post offices, public libraries, and county or municipal clerks. Schedule an appointment online via the facility's website or by phone to avoid long waits—walk-ins may be limited. Arrive early with:

• Original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate; hospital versions often don't qualify).
• Valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID).
• Two identical 2x2-inch color photos (taken within 6 months at pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS; no selfies or uniforms).
• Form DS-11 unsigned (agent signs in front of you).
  Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (check/money order; credit cards sometimes accepted). Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited (+$60).

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Mailing DS-11—it gets returned unprocessed, delaying your trip.
• Bringing photocopies or short-form birth certificates—in Wisconsin, only long-form certified copies work.
• Undersized/overexposed photos or forgetting a second photo copy.
• Signing DS-11 early or arriving without all family members if applying for minors.

Decision guidance:
Confirm your status: Dig up your old passport. Issued under 16? Use DS-11. First-time ever? Definitely DS-11. If issued age 16+ within the last 15 years and undamaged, consider DS-82 renewal by mail instead (faster for De Pere folks avoiding in-person). Use State Department's online wizard at travel.state.gov for confirmation. Plan 2-3 months ahead for Wisconsin's busy travel seasons.

Renewals

Eligible if your current passport:

• Was issued within the last 15 years.
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
• Is undamaged and in your possession.

Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person needed. Many De Pere residents mistakenly bring DS-11 for renewals, causing delays [2].

Replacements for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it first via Form DS-64 (online or mail), then apply using DS-11 or DS-82 if eligible for renewal. Damaged passports (e.g., water exposure) require full reapplication [2].

Name Changes or Corrections

For legal name changes (marriage, divorce), provide evidence like a court order. Minor corrections (typos) use Form DS-5504—no fee if within one year of issuance [2].

Additional Passports

Business travelers may request a second passport using DS-82 if they travel frequently and need one valid while the other is abroad [2].

Required Documents and Forms

Gather everything before your appointment to avoid rescheduling. Wisconsin-specific needs include certified birth certificates from the state vital records office or county register of deeds [3].

Step-by-Step Document Checklist:

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate (abstracts not accepted), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For Wisconsin births, order from Wisconsin Vital Records or Brown County Register of Deeds. Photocopies won't suffice [3].

2. Proof of Identity: Valid driver's license, government ID, or military ID. Wisconsin residents can use a REAL ID-compliant license [2].

3. Passport Photo: One 2x2-inch color photo taken within 6 months. See photo section below [4].

4. Completed Form: DS-11 (first-time/replacement, unsigned until appointment), DS-82 (renewal), etc. Download from travel.state.gov [2].

5. For Minors Under 16:

   • Both parents' presence or notarized consent (Form DS-3053).
   • Child's birth certificate.
   • Parents' IDs.
   • Minors' passports valid only 5 years [2].

6. Name Change Evidence: Marriage certificate, divorce decree (Wisconsin issues from county clerks) [3].

7. Fees: See payment section.

Photocopy documents (front/back) for your records—the facility keeps originals temporarily.

Passport Photos: Avoid Common Rejections

Photos cause 25-30% of application rejections. Specs: 2x2 inches, white/off-white background, head 1-1 3/8 inches, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses unless medically required (side view required), no uniforms/hats unless religious/medical [4].

De Pere Options:

• CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart (check for passport service).
• De Pere Post Office or libraries.
• AAA Northeast (if member).

Common Wisconsin issues: Shadows from indoor lighting, glare on glasses, incorrect sizing (print exactly 2x2), or smiling. Use natural light outdoors or softbox setups. Cost: $10-15 [4].

Passport Acceptance Facilities in De Pere and Brown County

De Pere has limited facilities due to demand—book early, especially spring/summer. Use the State Department's locator: iafdb.travel.state.gov [5].

Key Local Spots:

• De Pere Post Office: 145 N Broadway St, De Pere, WI 54115. By appointment; handles DS-11 [6].
• Brown County Register of Deeds: 305 E Walnut St, Green Bay, WI 54301 (10-min drive). Mon-Fri, walk-ins limited; high volume for families [7].
• Ashwaubenon Post Office (nearby): 737 Hansen Rd, Green Bay.
• Clerk of Circuit Court (Brown County): May offer during business hours.

Peak seasons (March-June, Dec) fill weeks ahead. Call to confirm hours/services.

Making an Appointment and What to Expect

1. Locate facility via [5].
2. Call or book online (USPS uses usps.com scheduler).
3. Arrive 15 minutes early with all docs.
4. Sign forms on-site.
5. Pay fees (cashier's check/money order for State Dept; personal checks at some).
6. Receive receipt—track status at travel.state.gov [1].

Expect 15-30 minutes. No phones during oath.

Fees and Payment Methods

Plus $35 execution fee per applicant. Pay State Dept fees by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; execution to facility [1].

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (do not rely on during peaks—add 2-4 weeks) [1]. Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Urgent travel (<14 days): Life-or-death emergencies qualify for in-person at Milwaukee Passport Agency (call 877-487-2778; proof required like death certificate). No agency in Green Bay—plan ahead [1].

Warning: High De Pere-area demand means last-minute processing isn't guaranteed. Students on exchange programs or business trips should apply 3+ months early [1].

Special Considerations for Wisconsin Residents

• Birth Certificates: Order online/mail from WI DHS ($20 first copy) or Brown County ($20-30). Processing 5-10 days [3].
• Minors: Both parents must consent; common for families traveling to Disney or Europe. Incomplete forms delay 20% of kid apps [2].
• Seniors/Business: Limited validity not an issue; second passports for frequent flyers.

Comprehensive Step-by-Step Checklist for De Pere Applicants

Use this printable checklist:

• Confirm service type (first-time DS-11, renewal DS-82).
• Gather citizenship proof (WI birth cert via [3]).
• Get valid photo (check [4] specs).
• Complete form (unsigned for DS-11).
• Find facility/appointment ([5], De Pere PO [6]).
• Prepare fees (two payments).
• Photocopy all docs.
• Attend appointment (both parents for minors).
• Track application (travel.state.gov).
• For urgent: Verify <14-day travel proof for agency.

Renewals: Mail DS-82 + photo + old passport + fee to address on form.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around De Pere

In De Pere and the surrounding areas, such as nearby Green Bay and other local communities, residents have access to various passport acceptance facilities. These are official sites authorized by the U.S. Department of State to handle new passport applications, renewals, and related services. Common types include post offices, public libraries, municipal clerks' offices, and county courthouses. While specific locations vary, they are typically found within city centers, shopping districts, or government buildings convenient to everyday errands.

Passport acceptance facilities play a key role in the application process but do not issue passports directly. Instead, trained agents there verify your identity, review your completed forms (like DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals), ensure your photo meets requirements, witness your signature, and collect fees. Expect to provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), a valid photo ID, and passport photos—many facilities offer photo services on-site or direct you to nearby options. Applications are sealed and forwarded to a regional passport agency for processing, which can take 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks expedited. Walk-ins are common, though some offer appointments to streamline visits. Always double-check the State Department's website for the latest forms and requirements before heading out.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Passport facilities in the De Pere area, like many across the country, experience fluctuations in crowds. Peak travel seasons—such as summer vacation periods, spring breaks, and holidays—often see higher volumes as families prepare for trips. Mondays tend to draw larger crowds after weekend planning, while mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently peak due to lunch-hour visits. Weekends may offer lighter traffic at some spots.

To plan effectively, research facilities in advance and consider booking appointments where available to minimize wait times. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and avoid seasonal rushes by applying well ahead of travel dates. Prepare all documents meticulously, arrive with extras like additional photos, and be patient—delays can occur during high-demand periods. Checking online tools for real-time updates can further help optimize your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in De Pere?
No routine same-day service locally. Urgent cases go to Milwaukee agency with proof [1].

What's the difference between expedited and urgent travel service?
Expedited speeds routine to 2-3 weeks ($60). Urgent (<14 days, life/death) requires agency appointment—no fee but proof needed [1].

My child needs a passport for a school trip—how soon?
Apply 8+ weeks early; minors need dual parental consent. Peaks overwhelm facilities [2].

Is my Wisconsin driver's license enough ID?
Yes, if current and enhanced/REAL ID preferred but not required [2].

What if my passport photo is rejected?
Retake immediately—common issues: glare, shadows, size. Specs at [4].

Can I renew by mail if my passport is 10 years old?
No, only if issued <15 years ago, age 16+, undamaged [2].

Where do I get a birth certificate in Brown County?
Brown County Register of Deeds or state DHS [3], [7].

How do I track my application?
Enter receipt number at travel.state.gov/passport-status [1].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Passport Forms
[3]Wisconsin DHS - Vital Records
[4]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photo Requirements
[5]State Department Passport Acceptance Facility Search
[6]USPS Passport Services
[7]Brown County Register of Deeds - Passports