How to Get a Passport in Green Bay, WI: Facilities & Tips

Guide to Getting a Passport in Green Bay, WI

Green Bay, Wisconsin, residents often need passports for frequent international business trips to Canada and Europe, family vacations during spring and summer peaks or winter breaks to warmer destinations like Mexico, student exchange programs at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UWGB), and even urgent last-minute travel for family emergencies or surprise opportunities. Brown County sees higher demand during these seasons, leading to limited appointments at passport acceptance facilities. Common hurdles include photo rejections from poor lighting (shadows or glare), incomplete forms for minors, and confusion over renewal rules or expedited options. This guide draws from official U.S. Department of State resources to help you navigate the process efficiently, but processing times can vary—especially during busy periods—and are never guaranteed [1].

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to select the correct form and application method. Mischoosing can cause delays or rejections.

First-Time Passport (New Applicant)

If you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16, you must apply in person as a new applicant using Form DS-11—whether you're an adult or minor. You cannot mail this form [2]. In Green Bay, WI, head to a local passport acceptance facility (like those at post offices or clerks of court) during business hours; many require appointments, so check availability and book early to avoid delays, especially during peak travel seasons like summer.

Key Steps for Success:

1. Download and prepare Form DS-11 from travel.state.gov (do not sign it until instructed by the agent in person—this is a common mistake that invalidates applications).
2. Gather required documents:
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship (original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate; photocopies not accepted).
   • Valid photo ID (driver's license, military ID; if name differs from citizenship doc, provide name change evidence like marriage certificate).
   • One 2x2-inch passport photo taken within 6 months (many pharmacies in Green Bay offer this service—avoid selfies or expired photos, as they're frequently rejected).
   • Fees: Check travel.state.gov for current amounts (cash, check, or card depending on facility; execution fee is separate).
3. For minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear (or submit Form DS-3053 consent from absent parent); all kids need their own passport.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Assuming you can renew with DS-82 (only for passports issued at 16+ and within 15 years).
• Bringing expired or non-compliant photos (must be white background, neutral expression, no glasses unless medically required).
• Forgetting parental consent for kids, leading to rescheduling.
• Applying without an appointment during busy periods (Green Bay facilities can back up quickly).

Decision Guidance: Still unsure? Review your old passport's issue date and your age at issuance on travel.state.gov's eligibility tool. Processing takes 6-8 weeks standard (expedite for 2-3 weeks extra fee); plan 3+ months ahead for travel. Track status online after submission.

Passport Renewal

You may qualify for mail-in renewal if:

• Your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older.
• It was issued within the last 15 years.
• It is undamaged and in your possession.
• You are not changing your name, gender, date/place of birth, or appearance significantly.

Use Form DS-82 for adults (16+). Minors cannot renew by mail; they must apply in person [2]. Many Green Bay applicants mistakenly use DS-11 for eligible renewals, requiring an unnecessary in-person visit.

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Immediate Steps for Lost or Stolen Passports
Report it immediately using Form DS-64 online at travel.state.gov (fastest option) or by mail—do this before applying for a replacement to invalidate the old passport and protect against identity theft. Common mistake: Delaying the report, which leaves your passport active for potential misuse.

In the U.S. (Including Green Bay, WI)
Apply in person at a local passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, county clerk, or municipal office.

• New passport required (use Form DS-11): Mandatory for lost, stolen, damaged, or first-time applicants. Bring: DS-64 confirmation, proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or naturalization cert), valid photo ID, one passport photo, and fees. Must be done in person—no mail option.
• Renewal possible by mail (use Form DS-82): Only if eligible—your old passport was issued when you were 16+, within the last 15 years, undamaged, issued in your current name, and you're not applying for a child passport. Decision guide: Check eligibility first at travel.state.gov; if unsure (e.g., name change or minor damage), default to DS-11 to avoid rejection.

Damaged Passports
Any damage (e.g., water stains, tears, or ink smudges) makes it invalid—treat as lost and replace fully with DS-11. Common mistake: Trying to renew (DS-82) a damaged passport, which gets denied; always inspect for issues like peeling laminate or corner bends.

Pro Tip: Schedule appointments online where available to avoid long waits. Expedite if urgent (extra fee, limited locations). Track status online after applying. Abroad? Contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate immediately.

Additional Scenarios

• Name change: Provide legal proof (marriage certificate, court order).
• Minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must appear or provide notarized consent (Form DS-3053).
• Urgent travel: Routine processing takes 6-8 weeks; expedited (extra fee) aims for 2-3 weeks. For travel in 14 days or less (or 28 days with visa), use the urgent service at a regional agency, not local facilities [4].

Use the State Department's interactive tool to confirm your form [1].

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Green Bay and Brown County

Green Bay has several designated facilities, primarily USPS locations and the county clerk's office. All require appointments due to high demand—book early via the provider's website or phone, as slots fill quickly during travel seasons [5].

• Brown County Clerk of Circuit Courts: 305 E. Walnut Street, Green Bay, WI 54301. Phone: (920) 448-4470. Open weekdays; handles first-time, minors, and renewals. Website for appointments: browncountywi.gov [6].
• Green Bay Main Post Office: 201 N. Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54303. Phone: (920) 369-9661. Appointments via usps.com; popular but often booked [5].
• East Green Bay Post Office: 400 E. Walnut Street, Green Bay, WI 54301. Phone: (920) 468-4812. Limited hours; check usps.com [5].
• Other USPS locations: De Pere (nearby in Brown County) at 555 N. Broadway, De Pere, WI 54115. Search "passport" on usps.com for real-time availability [5].

No clerk offices or post offices offer walk-ins reliably—plan 4-6 weeks ahead outside peaks. For urgent needs within 14 days, skip these and go to a passport agency (nearest: Chicago, ~3-hour drive) by appointment only [4].

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals and photocopies (front/back on standard paper). Incomplete docs cause most rejections, especially for minors without both parents' presence.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original + Photocopy)

• U.S. birth certificate (issued by city/vital records, not hospital).
• Naturalization Certificate (Form N-550/570).
• Previous undamaged passport.

Wisconsin birth certificates come from the state Vital Records Office or Brown County Register of Deeds (305 E. Walnut St., Green Bay) [7]. Order online at dhs.wisconsin.gov if needed ($20+ rush fees).

Proof of Identity (Original + Photocopy)

• Primary options (preferred in Wisconsin): Wisconsin driver's license or state ID card, U.S. passport, military ID, or REAL ID-compliant government-issued photo ID. Bring the original plus a clear, full-size color photocopy (both sides if applicable—use a flatbed scanner or copy machine for best results; phone photos often fail due to glare or distortion).

  • Decision guidance: Use your most recent WI driver's license if available—it's the fastest path. Expired IDs are typically rejected, so check the date first.
  • Common mistakes: Submitting only a photocopy without the original, using out-of-state IDs without additional verification, or faded/crumpled originals.

• If lacking primary ID: Provide two secondary documents, such as a school/college ID or employee ID plus a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill with your name (no P.O. boxes).

  • Decision guidance: Prioritize items with your photo and current address. Combine for 6+ points of verification if applying for REAL ID (check WI DMV chart online for point values).
  • Common mistakes: Relying on just one secondary item, using bank statements without photo ID backup, or handwritten notes on bills. Always verify combinations match your legal name exactly.

Photos

One 2x2-inch color photo taken within 6 months. Strict rules lead to frequent rejections in high-volume areas like Green Bay:

• White/cream/off-white background.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats, uniforms, shadows, glare, or smiles showing teeth.
• Head size 1-1 3/8 inches from chin to top.

Get at CVS, Walgreens, or USPS ($15-17). Avoid selfies or home printers—glare/shadows common issues [8].

For Minors Under 16

• Both parents' IDs and presence, or DS-3053 (notarized).
• Parental relationship proof (birth certificate).

Forms

Download from travel.state.gov:

• DS-11 (in person, do not sign until instructed).
• DS-82 (mail renewal).
• DS-3053 (minors).
• DS-64 (lost/stolen) [2].

Fees and Payment

Pay two separate fees: application ($130 adult book/ $100 card; $35 execution fee) to State Dept., and execution ($35) to facility (cash/check at clerk, various at USPS) [9].

• Expedited: +$60.
• 1-2 day return shipping: +$21.36.
• Urgent: Varies, agency only.

Mail renewals: Check to State Dept., money order for execution if needed.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Routine In-Person Application

Follow this sequentially to minimize errors. Allow 15-30 minutes at the facility.

1. Confirm eligibility: Use State Dept. wizard [1]. Choose routine (6-8 weeks) or expedited (2-3 weeks, +$60).
2. Book appointment: Call or online 4+ weeks ahead, especially spring/summer or winter breaks.
3. Gather documents:
   • Completed DS-11 (unsigned).
   • Citizenship proof + photocopy.
   • Photo + photocopy.
   • ID + photocopy.
   • Minors: Parental docs.
4. Get photo: Professional, compliant [8].
5. Prepare fees: Exact amounts; photocopy check if using.
6. Arrive early: Bring all in folder. Execute oath, sign form.
7. Track status: After 1 week, use online tracker [10].
8. Plan backups: No hard promises—peak seasons (March-June, Nov-Dec) add 2-4 weeks [1].

Step-by-Step Checklist for Mail Renewal (DS-82)

Eligible applicants only—saves a trip.

1. Verify eligibility [2].
2. Complete DS-82: Include name change docs if applicable.
3. Attach old passport, photo, fees (check to "U.S. Department of State").
4. Mail to: National Passport Processing Center, P.O. Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155 (or expedited box) [9].
5. Track: Online after 2 weeks [10].

Processing Times and Urgent Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks door-to-door. Expedited: 2-3 weeks. Do not rely on these during peaks—e.g., summer tourism or student travel surges delay even expedited apps [1]. For travel <14 days (or <28 with visa):

• Call 1-877-487-2778 for Chicago Passport Agency appointment (proof of travel required).
• Life-or-death emergencies: In-person at agency same/next day [4].

Many Green Bay travelers confuse "expedited" (local, fee-based) with "urgent" (agency only). Last-minute trips for business or family often hit appointment walls.

Common Pitfalls and Tips for Green Bay Residents

• High demand: USPS slots vanish fast—check daily. Brown County Clerk less crowded mid-week.
• Photos: Dim Green Bay lighting in winter causes glare; use facilities with rings lights.
• Minors/exchanges: UWGB students' families often miss DS-3053 notarization—do ahead.
• Seasonal rushes: Spring (Europe trips), summer (family vacays), winter breaks (Florida/Caribbean)—apply 3 months early.
• Docs: Brown County Register of Deeds for birth certs; same-day rush possible but $30+ [7].

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Green Bay

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit passport applications for processing. These are not passport agencies, which handle urgent renewals or lost passports; instead, they verify your identity, administer oaths, and forward your application to a regional passport agency. Common types include post offices, public libraries, county clerks of court, and municipal offices. In and around Green Bay, you'll find such facilities scattered throughout the city, its suburbs like Ashwaubenon and De Pere, and nearby areas such as Howard and Suamico.

To use these facilities, come prepared with a completed DS-11 application form (for first-time applicants or certain renewals), a valid photo ID, a passport photo meeting State Department specs, and payment (check or money order for the application fee; other fees may be payable on-site). Expect a short wait for staff to review documents, answer questions, and notarize your signature. The process typically takes 15-45 minutes, depending on volume. Applications are mailed from the facility, with processing times of 6-8 weeks standard or 2-3 weeks expedited. Always confirm eligibility and requirements on the official State Department website before visiting.

Surrounding regions like Brown County and Outagamie County host additional options, providing convenience for residents in areas such as Oneida or Hobart. Traveling farther? Facilities exist in Appleton or Manitowoc, though Green Bay's central location makes local spots ideal for most.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher traffic during peak travel seasons like summer, spring break, and holidays, when demand surges. Mondays tend to be crowded after weekend planning, and mid-day slots (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) fill quickly with walk-ins. To avoid long lines, aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or less busy weekdays like Tuesdays through Thursdays. Many locations offer appointments—book online or by phone in advance if possible. Check facility guidelines for walk-in policies, and consider off-peak months like January or September for smoother visits. Patience and preparation go a long way in streamlining your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a passport in Green Bay?
Routine applications take 6-8 weeks processing plus mailing; expedited 2-3 weeks. Add time for peaks—no guarantees [1].

Can I get a passport same-day in Green Bay?
No local facilities offer same-day. Urgent service at Chicago agency only for <14-day travel [4].

Where do I get a birth certificate in Brown County?
Brown County Register of Deeds (305 E. Walnut St.) or Wisconsin Vital Records online/dhs.wisconsin.gov [7].

Do I need an appointment for passport photos?
Recommended at pharmacies/USPS to avoid lines and ensure compliance [8].

What if my child’s other parent can’t attend?
Submit notarized DS-3053 with their signature, ID copy, and relationship proof [2].

Can I renew my passport at the Green Bay Post Office?
No—renewals by mail only if eligible. Post offices handle DS-11 only [5].

How do I expedite for a last-minute trip?
Add $60 at acceptance facility for 2-3 weeks, or agency for urgent [9].

Is a passport card enough for my cruise to Mexico?
Yes, for land/sea to Mexico/Canada/Caribbean, but book needs full passport [1].

Sources

[1]Passports - How to Apply
[2]Passport Forms
[3]Lost or Stolen Passport
[4]I Need My Passport Fast
[5]USPS Passport Services
[6]Brown County Clerk
[7]Wisconsin Vital Records
[8]Passport Photo Requirements
[9]Passport Fees
[10]Check Application Status