Passports

The Elyria Public Library System is now offering Passport Processing Services at its West River location.

Passport Processing Services | The EPLS - West River location is an official Passport Acceptance Facility for the U.S. Department of State. Passport application processing and photo services are available by appointment only. 

Passport Service Hours | Call the West River Patron Services Desk at 440-324-2270 to make an appointment. 

• Monday - Saturday | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Note: The passport application process can take 20-60 minutes per applicant. More time may be needed for complex cases. You may be asked to return at another time if the passport acceptance agent cannot complete your application prior to closing.

What To Bring To Your Appointment |  If applying for a passport for a person under the age of 18, see the special requirements section in our Frequently Asked Questions. If this is your first passport, you must apply in person.  When applying for an adult (18 and older) passport in person, you'll need to submit the following items.

1. Completed Passport Application/DS-11 Application for a U.S. Passport | The DS-11 form can be completed online or printed from the State Department website. Forms are also available at the EPLS - West River location.
   • Forms must be legible using black ink only.
   • Forms need to be completed before an acceptance agent can begin to process your application.
   • Do not sign the application ahead of time. Wait until instructed by the agent. 
   • All submitted documents must be originals or certified copies.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship, such as birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Original or certified copies only, no photocopies.
3. Current proof of identity, such as an Ohio driver's license. Visit travel.state.gov for other acceptable forms of proof of citizenship and identity.

Fees | There are several different passport fees that may apply. Some fees are paid directly to the U.S. Department of State and others are paid directly to the Elyria Public Library System.

• Execution Fees and Passport Photo Fees (plus tax) for each new passport, payable by credit or debit card, cash, or money order to Elyria Public Library System.
• Application Fees for each passport, payable by check, money order, or cashier's check to the U.S. Department of State.

For more information about fees, how to obtain a passport, U.S. citizenship or current proof of identity, visit the U.S. Department of State website, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or contact the EPLS - West River Public Services Desk at 440-324-2270.

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 get my passport?
  • Routine application processing takes 4-6 weeks but could take up to 8 weeks. 
    Note: The U.S. State Department is currently advising applicants to expect long delays. Read more.
• Can I get a passport for my child?
  • Children under 16 years old: Children and both parents/legal guardians must be present during the application process. Birth certificates must be submitted for all children showing parental relationship as well as current parent/guardian proof of ID are required.
  • Children age 16-17: The minor must appear in person. If the child has a photo ID, the parent is not required to be present; however, it is recommended that a parent indicate consent by being present, being listed as an emergency contact, or providing check for payment.
• Where can I get a copy of my birth certificate?
  • If you were born in Ohio, you can visit the Department of Health's Vital Records to get a copy. If you were born in another state, visit the Centers for Disease Control website for a state-by-state listing of contact information for obtaining vital records. 
• Where can I get information about the status of my application?
  • Call the National Passport Center at 1-877-487-2778.
  • Access the Online Passport Status System.
    • It takes 7-10 business days after you've applied for your application to be trackable online.
• Can I apply for a visa at the library?
  • Sorry, no. We cannot handle visas. A Visa is an endorsement or stamp placed by officials of foreign countries on a U.S. passport that allows the bearer to visit that foreign country. Foreign entry requirements vary by country. Visit the U.S. Department of State website for more information.