How To Apply For A Passport In West Virginia

Published: December 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Viv Mccombs

Introduction

Applying for a passport in West Virginia is a straightforward process that allows residents to explore the world and experience new adventures. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway or an international business trip, having a valid passport is essential for crossing borders and entering foreign countries.

With its charming small towns, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history, West Virginia offers a unique perspective on American culture. From the majestic Appalachian Mountains to the vibrant city life of Charleston, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Mountain State. And obtaining a passport opens up a world of possibilities for West Virginians to explore and discover new horizons.

Before embarking on the exciting journey of obtaining a passport, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the process and requirements. This article will guide you through the application process, provide information on required documents, fees, and additional services such as expedited processing and passport renewal. We’ll also cover important details regarding lost or stolen passports, passport photo requirements, and passports for minors.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need to renew your passport, this article will be your comprehensive guide to applying for a passport in West Virginia. So, let’s dive into the details and get you on your way to your next international adventure!

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for a passport in West Virginia, it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. The following criteria must be met in order to qualify for a passport:

You must be a citizen or non-citizen national of the United States.
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for an adult passport. For applicants under 16, different requirements apply, and we will discuss them later in this article.
You must have a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or military ID.
You must be able to provide proof of U.S. citizenship. This can be in the form of a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, or a naturalization certificate.
Your previous passport, if you had one, should not have been issued more than 15 years ago or before the age of 16.
Your previous passport, if applicable, must not have been lost, stolen, or damaged.
You must not be subject to any federal travel restrictions or have outstanding warrants.

It’s worth noting that if you are a first-time applicant or if your previous passport was issued when you were under the age of 16, you will need to apply in person at an acceptance facility. This is to verify your identity and ensure the accuracy of your application.

Now that you’re familiar with the eligibility requirements, it’s time to gather the necessary documents to apply for your passport in West Virginia.

Required Documents

When applying for a passport in West Virginia, you will need to gather the following documents to support your application:

Proof of U.S. Citizenship: You will need to provide original or certified copies of documents that establish your U.S. citizenship. This can be a certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state, a consular report of birth abroad, or a naturalization certificate.
Proof of Identity: You must present a valid government-issued photo identification. This can be a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or a valid passport if you are renewing an expired or expiring passport.
Passport Application Form: You will need to complete Form DS-11, which is the application for a U.S. passport. This form can be filled out online or can be obtained from an acceptance facility.
Passport Photo: You must provide a recent color passport photo that meets the specifications outlined by the U.S. Department of State. The photo should be taken within the last six months and should be 2×2 inches in size.
Payment: You will need to pay the applicable fees for your passport application. This can be done by check, money order, or credit card. The specific fees will depend on the type of passport you are applying for and any additional services you may require.

It’s important to note that all documents submitted must be original or certified copies. Photocopies or notarized copies will not be accepted. Additionally, if you are applying for a passport for a child under 16 years old, both parents or legal guardians must be present and provide consent.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary documents, let’s move on to the next step in the passport application process: submitting your application.

Application Process

Once you have gathered all the required documents, it’s time to begin the application process for your passport in West Virginia. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the process:

Complete Form DS-11: Begin by filling out Form DS-11, the application for a U.S. passport. You can complete this form online and then print it, or you can fill it out manually using black ink. Be sure to fill in all the required fields accurately and legibly.
Gather Your Supporting Documents: Collect all the necessary documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, your passport photo, and payment for the applicable fees.
Visit an Acceptance Facility: Find a nearby acceptance facility in West Virginia where you can submit your application in person. This can include post offices, libraries, or county clerk’s offices. It’s recommended to make an appointment beforehand to save time.
Bring Necessary Documents: Bring your completed Form DS-11, supporting documents, and payment to the acceptance facility. A passport acceptance agent will review your application and all the required documents. They will then administer an oath and witness your signature.
Pay the Fees: Pay the required fees for your passport application. This includes the application fee and any additional services you may choose, such as expedited processing or overnight delivery.
Submit Your Application: Once your application has been reviewed and all the necessary documents have been verified, the acceptance agent will accept your application. Your documents will be sealed and sent to the appropriate passport processing center for further review.
Track Your Application: After submitting your application, you can track its progress online using the passport application status tracker available on the U.S. Department of State’s website. This will allow you to stay updated on the status of your passport.
Receive Your Passport: Once your application has been processed and approved, your passport will be mailed to you at the address you provided on the application. It usually takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks for regular processing, or you can choose expedited processing for faster delivery.

Remember to double-check all the information on your passport once you receive it to ensure accuracy. If you find any errors, contact the passport agency immediately for assistance in rectifying the issue. And that’s it – you have successfully completed the application process for your passport in West Virginia!

Passport Fees

When applying for a passport in West Virginia, there are several fees that you will need to pay. The specific fees depend on the type of passport you are applying for, your age, and any additional services you may require. Here is a breakdown of the common fees associated with passport applications:

Passport Book: The fee for a standard passport book for adults (16 years and older) is $110. For minors (under 16 years old), the fee is $80. This fee includes the passport book and the application processing fee.
Passport Card: If you prefer a wallet-sized passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, you can opt for one at an additional cost. The fee for an adult passport card is $30, and for minors, it is $15.
Expedited Processing: If you need your passport urgently, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. This service shortens the processing time to approximately 2-3 weeks. The fee for expedited processing is $60 per application.
Overnight Delivery: If you want your passport to be delivered via overnight mail, you can request this service for an additional fee of $17.13 per application. This ensures that your passport reaches you quickly and securely.

Payment for the passport fees can be made by check, money order, or credit card. It’s important to note that the execution fee, which is typically paid separately to the acceptance facility, is not included in the fees mentioned above. The execution fee is $35 and is paid directly to the acceptance facility when submitting your application.

It’s always recommended to check the official U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest acceptance facility for the most up-to-date fee information before submitting your application for a passport in West Virginia.

Expedited Processing

If you find yourself in need of a passport urgently, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. This service shortens the processing time, allowing you to receive your passport in a shorter timeframe. Here’s what you need to know about expedited processing for your passport application in West Virginia:

The standard processing time for a passport is approximately 4 to 6 weeks. However, if you require your passport sooner than that, you can request expedited processing. With expedited processing, your passport application will be prioritized and processed in approximately 2 to 3 weeks, excluding mailing time.

To apply for expedited processing, you will need to indicate your need for expedited service on Form DS-11 or DS-82 (if you are eligible to renew your passport by mail). Additionally, you will need to include the extra fee of $60 per application, along with the standard passport fee.

It’s important to note that the expedited processing fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied for any reason. However, if there are errors or omissions in your application, it may delay the expedited processing and result in a longer processing time.

When requesting expedited service, it’s advisable to use an overnight delivery service for both the submission of your application and the return of your passport. This will ensure a faster and more secure delivery process.

If you have already applied for a passport without requesting expedited processing but find yourself in need of one urgently, you can request expedited service by mail. This can be done by contacting the National Passport Information Center and following their instructions. Keep in mind that additional fees and documentation may be required.

It’s important to plan ahead and apply for your passport well in advance of your departure date to avoid any unnecessary stress. However, if unforeseen circumstances arise that require expedited processing, rest assured that this service is available to help you obtain your passport in a shorter timeframe.

Remember to check the official U.S. Department of State website or contact your nearest acceptance facility for the most up-to-date information on expedited processing and the associated fees.

Passport Renewal

If you already have a passport that is expiring or has expired within the last five years, you may be eligible for passport renewal. Passport renewal is a simplified process that allows you to obtain a new passport by mail without the need for an in-person appointment. Here’s what you need to know about renewing your passport in West Virginia:

Eligibility for passport renewal by mail depends on several factors. You can renew your passport by mail if:

You have your most recent passport in your possession.
Your previous passport was issued when you were 16 years or older.
Your previously issued passport is undamaged.
Your previous passport was issued within the last 15 years.
Your previous passport was issued in your current name, or you can provide legal documentation of a name change.

If you meet these criteria, you can follow the passport renewal process outlined below:

Download and Complete Form DS-82: Start by downloading and completing Form DS-82, the passport renewal application. You can find this form on the official website of the U.S. Department of State.
Gather Required Documents: Collect your most recent passport, a recent passport photo, and the appropriate renewal fee payment.
Mail Your Application: Place your completed application, along with your most recent passport, photo, and payment, in a secure envelope. Use a traceable delivery method and ensure that it is properly addressed to the passport processing center specified on the application form.
Track Your Application: You can track the status of your passport renewal application using the online passport application status tracker available on the U.S. Department of State’s website. This will keep you updated on the progress of your renewal.
Receive Your New Passport: Once your renewal application has been processed and approved, your new passport will be mailed to you at the address you provided on the application form. It typically takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks.

It’s essential to note that if your previous passport was lost, stolen, or significantly damaged, you will need to follow the regular passport application process, which requires an in-person appointment at an acceptance facility.

By renewing your passport, you can ensure that you have a valid travel document for your future international adventures without the need for an in-person appointment. Remember to check the official U.S. Department of State website for detailed instructions and any updates regarding passport renewal procedures.

Lost or Stolen Passport

Discovering that your passport has been lost or stolen can be a stressful experience, but don’t panic. The U.S. Department of State has protocols in place to help you address this situation and obtain a replacement passport. Here’s what you need to know about reporting a lost or stolen passport in West Virginia:

As soon as you realize that your passport is missing, take the following steps:

Report it immediately: Report the loss or theft of your passport to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, or online through the U.S. Department of State’s website. This will help protect your identity and prevent any unauthorized use of your lost or stolen passport.
Complete Form DS-64: Fill out Form DS-64, the Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport. This form is available on the U.S. Department of State’s website. Provide as much detail as possible, including the circumstances surrounding the loss or theft.
Replace your passport: To obtain a replacement passport, you will need to follow the regular passport application process. This usually involves an in-person appointment at an acceptance facility, where you will need to complete Form DS-11 and provide the necessary documentation and fees.
Additional documents: In addition to the standard passport application requirements, you will need to provide additional documentation to support your application. This can include a police report or a sworn statement detailing the loss or theft, as well as any other supporting evidence requested by the passport agency.
Expedited processing: To expedite the replacement process, you can request expedited processing and pay an additional fee. This will help ensure that you receive your replacement passport in a shorter timeframe.

It’s important to note that if you later find your lost passport after reporting it as lost or stolen, it will no longer be valid for travel. It is considered invalidated and should be submitted to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Keep in mind that it is essential to report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible. This will help protect your identity and prevent any potential misuse of your personal information. By following the necessary steps and providing the required documentation, you can obtain a replacement passport and continue your travels with peace of mind.

Passport Photo Requirements

When applying for a passport in West Virginia, it’s important to adhere to specific requirements for your passport photo. Your photo will be used to verify your identity and must meet certain criteria set by the U.S. Department of State. Here’s what you need to know about the passport photo requirements:

Size and Quality:

Your passport photo must be 2×2 inches in size.
The photo should be in color and printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper.
It must be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.
The photo should have a plain white or off-white background, with no shadows or other patterns.

Facial Expression and Positioning:

You must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with your mouth closed.
The photo should show a full front view of your face, with a clear image of both eyes.
Your face should be in the center of the frame, not tilted or turned. Your head and shoulders should be directly facing the camera.
You should avoid wearing hats, head coverings, or anything that obscures your face, unless it is for religious or medical reasons.

Clothing and Appearance:

Ensure that your clothing contrasts with the background of the photo. Dark-colored clothing with a light-colored background is recommended.
Glasses are generally not allowed in passport photos unless you have a medical or religious reason for wearing them. If you do wear glasses, ensure that there is no glare on the lenses and that your eyes are clearly visible.
You should avoid wearing any uniforms, except for religious attire that you wear daily.
Your photo should accurately represent your current appearance. Avoid excessive makeup or alterations that may change your natural features.

It’s crucial to follow these requirements carefully to prevent delays or rejection of your passport application. If your photo does not meet the specified criteria, it may be rejected, and you will have to submit a new photo that meets the requirements.

For convenience, many local and online photo providers offer passport photo services that comply with the U.S. Department of State’s requirements. Alternatively, you can take your own photo, ensuring that you follow the guidelines mentioned above.

Remember, a proper passport photo is an essential component of your passport application, so be sure to adhere to the guidelines to ensure a seamless application process.

Passport for Minors

If you are under the age of 16 and a resident of West Virginia, you will need to follow specific guidelines for obtaining a passport. The process for obtaining a passport for minors is slightly different from that of adults. Here’s what you need to know:

Application Process:

Both parents or legal guardians must be present when applying for a passport for a minor under the age of 16. If one parent cannot be present, they must provide a notarized statement of consent.
Complete Form DS-11: Fill out Form DS-11, the application for a U.S. passport, on behalf of the minor. This form can be filled out online or obtained from an acceptance facility.
Proof of Parental Relationship: You must provide evidence of the minor’s relationship to both parents or legal guardians. This can be in the form of a certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or adoption decree.
Both parents or legal guardians must present valid government-issued photo identification when submitting the application.

Passport Photo:

Minors, regardless of age, must provide a recent passport photo that meets the specified requirements. The photo should show a full front view of the minor’s face, with a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with the mouth closed.
Make sure to follow the same guidelines for photo size, quality, and background as specified for adult passport photos.

Passport Fees:

The fees for passport applications for minors under the age of 16 are different from those for adults. The application fee for a minor passport is $80, and there may be additional fees for expedited processing or the passport card.
Both the application fee and the acceptance facility fee of $35 must be paid at the time of application.

It’s important to note that the passport for a minor is valid for five years. After the age of 16, the minor will need to apply for an adult passport using the standard application process.

Additionally, if one parent has sole custody of the minor or if there are special circumstances, such as a parent’s inability to appear in person, additional documentation may be required. It’s recommended to contact the nearest acceptance facility or the National Passport Information Center for precise instructions based on your situation.

By following these guidelines and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation, you can obtain a passport for your minor child and open up a world of travel opportunities for them.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding passport applications in West Virginia, you can reach out to the appropriate organizations and agencies for support. Here is some essential contact information to help you get in touch:

U.S. Department of State – National Passport Information Center:

Phone: 1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793)
Website: travel.state.gov

The National Passport Information Center is your go-to resource for general information and inquiries about passport applications, forms, fees, and processing times. They can provide guidance and assistance regarding common passport-related questions.

West Virginia Passport Acceptance Facilities:

There are several acceptance facilities throughout West Virginia where you can submit your passport application. These locations include post offices, public libraries, and county clerk’s offices. It’s recommended to schedule an appointment in advance. You can find the nearest acceptance facility by using the Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page.

Each acceptance facility may have different operating hours and specific requirements, so it’s advisable to contact them directly for any specific questions or concerns.

West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV):

Phone: 1-800-642-9066
Website: dmv.wv.gov

If you have questions related to obtaining identification documents, such as a driver’s license or state ID, you can contact the West Virginia DMV for assistance. Valid photo identification is one of the requirements when applying for a passport.

Remember to refer to the official websites and contact the respective organizations for the most up-to-date and accurate information. They can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure a smooth passport application process.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport in West Virginia is a crucial step towards embarking on exciting international adventures and exploring the world. By familiarizing yourself with the eligibility requirements, required documents, and application process, you can navigate the passport application process with confidence.

Remember to gather all the necessary documents, such as proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo ID, and a completed application form. Ensure that your passport photo meets the specific requirements, including size, facial expression, and background. Pay the applicable fees, including any additional fees for expedited processing or passport card requests.

If you are a minor, it’s important to follow the specific guidelines for obtaining a passport for minors, including parental consent and additional documentation.

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately and follow the necessary steps to obtain a replacement passport. Adhere to the passport photo requirements to prevent any delays or rejections of your application.

Should you have any questions or need further assistance, reach out to the National Passport Information Center or the nearest passport acceptance facility for guidance.

Remember that obtaining a passport opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to experience new cultures, create lifelong memories, and broaden your horizons. So, take the initiative, gather all the required documents, and embark on your next international adventure with a West Virginia passport in hand!