Administrative Law

How to Get a Passport in Madison, Wisconsin

Get a passport in Madison, WI with our expert guide on application, fees, and processing times

Eligibility and Requirements

To get a passport in Madison, Wisconsin, you must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization. You will need to provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and a valid government-issued ID, like a driver's license.

Additionally, you will need to provide a photocopy of both sides of your ID, and a passport photo that meets the Department of State's requirements. The photo should be 2x2 inches in size, with a white background, and a neutral expression.

Application Process

The application process for a passport in Madison, Wisconsin involves filling out form DS-11, which can be downloaded from the Department of State's website or picked up from a passport acceptance facility. You will need to fill out the form online and print it, or print a blank form and fill it out by hand.

Once you have completed the form, you will need to take it to a passport acceptance facility, along with your supporting documents and payment, to have it sealed in an envelope. The facility will then send it to the Department of State for processing.

Fees and Processing Times

The fee for a U.S. passport book is currently $110 for adults, and $80 for children under 16. The fee for a passport card is $30 for adults, and $15 for children under 16. There is also an execution fee, which varies depending on the acceptance facility, but is typically around $35.

The processing time for a passport can vary depending on the workload of the Department of State, but routine service typically takes 6-8 weeks. Expedited service is available for an additional fee, which can reduce the processing time to 2-3 weeks.

Passport Acceptance Facilities

There are several passport acceptance facilities in Madison, Wisconsin, including the Madison Post Office, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Dane County Clerk's Office. These facilities can accept your application, witness your signature, and seal your documents in an envelope for mailing.

It is recommended that you make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility, as wait times can be long. You can find a list of facilities and their contact information on the Department of State's website.

Renewal and Replacement

If your passport is expired or soon to expire, you can renew it by mail using form DS-82. You will need to fill out the form, sign it, and attach a new passport photo, as well as the fee, which is currently $110 for a U.S. passport book.

If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to apply for a replacement using form DS-11, and provide proof of citizenship and ID, as well as a statement explaining what happened to your previous passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a passport in Madison, Wisconsin?

The processing time for a passport can vary, but routine service typically takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service can take 2-3 weeks.

What documents do I need to get a passport?

You will need proof of citizenship, a valid government-issued ID, and a passport photo, as well as a photocopy of your ID.

Can I get a passport on the same day?

No, same-day service is not available for passports. You will need to apply and wait for processing.

How much does a passport cost?

The fee for a U.S. passport book is $110 for adults, and $80 for children under 16, with an additional execution fee.

Can I renew my passport by mail?

Yes, you can renew your passport by mail using form DS-82, as long as it is not damaged and you are not changing your name.

What if I have a felony conviction, can I still get a passport?

Having a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from getting a passport, but you may need to provide additional documentation or wait for a certain period of time after your conviction.