Passport Services in New London, WI: Facilities & Guide

Passport Services in New London, WI

If you're in New London, Wisconsin, or nearby in Waupaca County, applying for a U.S. passport can be straightforward with the right preparation. Wisconsin residents frequently travel internationally for business—especially to Canada and Mexico—tourism during peak spring and summer seasons, or winter breaks to warmer destinations like the Caribbean. Students from local high schools and UW campuses often need passports for exchange programs or study abroad, while urgent trips for family emergencies add pressure during holidays. High demand at acceptance facilities means appointments book up fast, so plan ahead. This guide covers everything from choosing your service to avoiding pitfalls, drawing directly from official sources.[1]

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Misusing forms is a top reason for delays.

• First-Time Passport: Use Form DS-11 if you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16. Required in person at an acceptance facility.[1]
• Renewal: Eligible if your passport was issued within 15 years, you're over 16, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82 and mail it—no in-person visit needed.[1]
• Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: Report it first with Form DS-64, then apply as first-time (DS-11 in person) or renewal (DS-82 by mail) depending on eligibility.[1]
• Name Change or Error Correction: Use Form DS-5504 if issued within the last year; otherwise, treat as renewal or new.[1]
• Child (Under 16) Passport: Always DS-11 in person, with both parents/guardians present or notarized consent.[1]

For quick reference:

Download forms from the State Department site—never use unofficial versions.[1]

Required Documents: Step-by-Step Checklist

Gather everything before your appointment to avoid rescheduling. Wisconsin-specific notes: Birth certificates come from the state Vital Records office or county register of deeds.[2]

Checklist for First-Time or In-Person Applications (DS-11)

1. Completed Form DS-11 (unsigned until at facility).[1]
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original + photocopy): U.S. birth certificate (WI-issued from DHS or Waupaca County Register of Deeds), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Certified birth certificates cost $20–30; order online or by mail.[2]
3. Proof of Identity (original + photocopy): Driver's license, military ID, or government ID. Waupaca County residents can use WI DOT-issued IDs.[3]
4. Passport Photo (2x2 inches, see photo section below).[1]
5. Fees: $130 application + $35 execution (paid at facility, check/money order). Add $60 expedited.[4]
6. For Minors: Both parents' IDs/presence, or Form DS-3053 notarized. Court order if sole custody.[1]

Checklist for Renewals by Mail (DS-82)

1. Completed Form DS-82.[1]
2. Current Passport (sent with application).[1]
3. Passport Photo.[1]
4. Fees: $130 check to "U.S. Department of State"; photo fee separate if at USPS.[4]
5. Name change proof if applicable (marriage certificate, etc.).[1]

Photocopy all docs on plain white paper (8.5x11). For WI birth certificates, contact Waupaca County Register of Deeds (715-258-6250) or state office.[2]

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos cause 25–30% of rejections. Specs are strict: 2x2 inches, color, white/cream/off-white background, head 1–1 3/8 inches, even lighting—no shadows, glare, hats (unless religious), glasses OK if eyes visible.[1][5]

Common WI Issues: Home printers often produce glare; local shadows from indoor lights fail. Use CVS, Walgreens, or UPS Store in New London (e.g., Walgreens at 1205 N Saint Joseph St)—they charge $15–17 and guarantee specs.[5]

Pro Tip: Take sample photo against white wall, check online validator tool.[1]

Acceptance Facilities Near New London, WI

New London has limited spots; book via the official locator.[6] High seasonal demand (spring break March–April, summer June–August, winter December) means slots fill weeks ahead—don't wait.

• New London Post Office: 201 N Shawano St, New London, WI 54961. Phone: 920-982-2812. Mon–Fri 10am–2pm, by appointment. Handles DS-11, photos available nearby.[7]
• Waupaca County Clerk of Courts: 811 Harding St, Waupaca, WI 54981 (15 miles south). Phone: 715-258-6250. weekdays, call for passport hours.[8]
• Nearby Options: Appleton Post Office (Outagamie County, 20 miles east) or Clintonville PO for overflow.[6]

Search "passport acceptance facility" on iafdb.travel.state.gov for real-time availability.[6] No walk-ins—appointments required.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Choose Service and Gather Docs: Use checklists above. Order birth cert if needed (2–4 weeks processing).[2]
2. Get Photo: Professional service preferred.
3. Book Appointment: Call facility or use online locator.[6]
4. Attend In-Person (if DS-11): Present docs, sign DS-11, pay fees (execution fee to facility, application to State Dept). Get receipt—track online later.[1]
5. Mail Renewals: To National Passport Processing Center, Philadelphia, PA 19355-0001.[1]
6. Track Status: 7–10 days post-submission at travel.state.gov.[1]
7. Pickup/Mail Delivery: Routine returns in 6–8 weeks; track avoids worry.[1]

For urgent: Add expedited fee, but facilities don't process—mails to agency.[1]

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6–8 weeks (not including mailing).[1] Expedited: 2–3 weeks (+$60).[1] Life-or-death emergencies (within 14 days, e.g., family death abroad): Call 1-877-487-2778 for in-person agency appt (Milwaukee Federal Bldg, 2+ hours drive).[9]

Warning: No guarantees—peaks overwhelm system. Last-minute summer apps often exceed estimates; apply 9+ weeks early. Urgent ≠ expedited; 14-day emergencies only for verified crises.[1][9]

WI travelers: Business to Toronto? Expedite 4–6 weeks ahead. Student exchange? Summer rush hits hard.

Special Rules for Minors

All under-16 require DS-11 in person. Both parents/guardians must appear with ID/child's birth cert, or submit DS-3053 (notarized). Waupaca County Family Court docs if custody issues.[1][8] Fees: $100 application + $35 execution. Peaks coincide with family vacations—book early.

Renewals: Why Mail is Easier

If eligible (passport <15 years old, age 16+), mail DS-82—no New London trip needed. USPS offers photo + mailing ($130+).[4] Track like new apps.

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

• Limited Appointments: Book 4–6 weeks ahead; check multiple facilities.[6]
• Expedited Confusion: $60 speeds processing, not 14-day urgent (separate).[1]
• Photo Rejects: Shadows/glare from home setups—pay pro.[5]
• Docs Incomplete: 40% minors lack parental consent.[1] Order WI birth certs early.[2]
• Wrong Form: Renewers using DS-11 waste time—check eligibility.[1]

Rural Waupaca: Drive to Appleton if New London full.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around New London

Passport acceptance facilities are designated locations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to witness and submit your passport application. These are not passport agencies but rather everyday public spots like post offices, public libraries, county clerk offices, and municipal buildings. In and around New London, you'll find such facilities scattered across the city and nearby towns, offering convenient access for residents and visitors alike. They handle routine first-time applications, renewals, and minor corrections, ensuring your documents meet federal standards before forwarding them to a regional passport agency for processing.

When visiting, expect a straightforward but thorough process. Arrive with a completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on your needs), a valid photo meeting exact specifications, proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID, and payment for application and execution fees. Staff will review your paperwork, administer an oath, and collect everything in a sealed envelope. No passport is issued on-site; processing times vary from weeks to months, with expedited options available for an extra fee. Some locations offer appointments to streamline visits, while others operate on a walk-in basis—always verify requirements in advance to avoid delays. Nearby areas, including surrounding counties, host similar facilities, providing alternatives if local spots are crowded.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities often see higher traffic during peak travel seasons, such as spring break, summer vacations, and holidays when demand surges. Mondays tend to be especially crowded as people catch up after weekends, and mid-day hours (around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) frequently experience rushes from lunch-hour crowds. To navigate this, plan visits for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and consider booking appointments where available to minimize wait times. Avoid peak seasons if possible, or prepare for longer lines by bringing all documents prepped. Always check official resources for any location-specific advisories, as volumes can fluctuate with local events or national trends. Patience and preparation go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a passport same-day in New London?
No local same-day service. Nearest agency in Milwaukee (2.5 hours); routine/expedited only via mail.[9]

How do I renew an expired passport from 10 years ago?
If issued as adult and undamaged, use DS-82 by mail. Over 15 years? DS-11 in person.[1]

What's the cost for a child's passport?
$100 application fee + $35 execution. Expedited +$60. Validity: 5 years.[1]

Where do I get a birth certificate in Waupaca County?
Waupaca County Register of Deeds (715-258-6401) or WI DHS online/mail ($20+).[2]

Can I track my application?
Yes, after 7–10 days at travel.state.gov with receipt number.[1]

What if my passport is lost abroad?
Contact U.S. embassy; apply for limited-validity one, replace fully on return.[1]

Do I need an appointment at New London Post Office?
Yes, required—no walk-ins. Call 920-982-2812.[7]

Is expedited worth it for summer travel?
Often yes, but apply early—2–3 weeks not guaranteed in peaks.[1]

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]Wisconsin DHS - Vital Records
[3]Wisconsin DOT - ID Cards
[4]USPS - Passport Fees
[5]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photos
[6]Passport Acceptance Facility Locator
[7]USPS - New London Post Office
[8]Waupaca County Clerk of Courts
[9]U.S. Department of State - Urgent Travel