Passport Services

Apply for a passport

If this is your first passport, you’ll need to apply in person. When applying for a passport in person, you need to submit:

• A completed (unsigned) application for passport filled out in black ink. Forms are available at travel.state.gov for download or may be picked up at the Avon or North Ridgeville branches.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• Current proof of identity
• One passport photo

The passport application process can take 20 to 60 minutes per applicant. More time may be needed for complex cases involving citizenship, parental guardianship, or last-minute travel. You may be asked to return at another time if the passport acceptance agent cannot complete your application prior to the next appointment or closing.

Fees

Different passport fees may apply. Some fees are paid directly to the U.S. Department of State and others are paid directly to LPLS. Call ahead to the Avon or North Ridgeville branch before you visit to determine your correct fees.

When applying for a passport, a check (personal, certified, cashier’s, traveler’s) or money order must accompany the passport application, made payable to the “U.S. Department of State.”

Expedited service will require an additional fee to the “U.S. Department of State.”

There is a $35 Execution Fee for each new passport, payable by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover, Apple Pay or Google Pay), personal check, or money order to Lorain Public Library System.

A passport photo fee of $11 is payable by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay or Google Pay), personal check, or money order to Lorain Public Library System.

Frequently Asked Questions

The U.S. Department of State has the sole responsibility for examining applications and issuing passports.

How long does it take to receive my passport?

For more information about current passport processing times and extra costs for expedited service, visit the U.S. Department of State travel website, travel.state.gov, or call the National Passport Center at 877-487-2778.

Where can I get a copy of my birth certificate?

If you were born in Lorain County, Ohio, visit the Lorain County Public Health Birth Certificates page. Or if you were born in another county visit the state Department of Health’s Vital Records page. If you were born in another state, visit the CDC’s page with links to each state’s vital records contact information and website.

Can I get a passport for my child?

For all children under age 16: Children must accompany you to apply for a passport.

All applications for children under 16 require both parents or legal guardians to be present during the application process. If one parent/guardian cannot be present, a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 Statement of Consent for Issuing a Passport to a Child must be provided.

Birth certificates must be submitted for all children showing parental relationship (even if the child has had a previous passport).

For all children age 16 to 17: The minor must appear in person.

Can I renew my passport at the library?

If you are renewing an expired adult passport issued within the last 15 years, you will have to apply by mail. Renewal forms are available online at travel.state.gov and at the Avon and North Ridgeville branches. A passport photo is available for a fee of $11, payable by credit card, check, or money order to Lorain Public Library System.

Where can I get information about the status of my application?

Status information is available through the National Passport Center, 877-487-2778.

Can I apply for a visa at the library?

Passport application acceptance agencies do not handle visas. A visa is an endorsement or stamp placed by officials of a foreign country on a U.S. passport that allows the bearer to visit that foreign country. Foreign entry requirements vary by country.