First-time applicants and those renewing will need different documents. First-time adult applicants (16 and older) require in-person application, while renewals can often be done by mail. Check your current passport status and determine whether you need a new passport book, card, or both. For Lake St. Croix Beach residents, proximity to local post offices and county services makes this process straightforward.

Collect proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate or naturalization document), valid government-issued photo ID, and a recent passport photo. Lake St. Croix Beach has several local pharmacies and photography studios that can help you obtain the perfect passport photo that meets federal guidelines.

Fill out Form DS-11 for first-time applicants or DS-82 for renewals. Be sure to use black ink and print clearly. Washington County resources and local libraries can provide assistance if you need help completing the form accurately.

Budget for application and execution fees. Current fees for adult passports are $130 for application plus $35 execution fee. Bring a check or money order, as many passport acceptance facilities prefer these payment methods over cash or credit cards.

Visit an authorized passport acceptance facility. In Lake St. Croix Beach and nearby Washington County, local post offices, county clerk’s offices, and some libraries serve as application centers. Call ahead to confirm hours and requirements, and consider making an appointment to streamline your process.

After submission, track your passport online using the provided application number. Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited services can reduce this to 3-5 weeks. For urgent travel, same-day to two-week processing is available at additional cost.