Indiana residents seeking to travel internationally or needing identification for various purposes will soon have an additional option for obtaining a passport. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) announced a new service that will simplify the process of applying for a passport for all Indiana residents.
Starting next month, residents will be able to apply for a passport at select BMV locations throughout the state. This new service will eliminate the need for residents to visit a separate passport acceptance facility, saving them time and streamlining the application process.
“We are excited to offer this new service to Indiana residents,” said BMV Commissioner Peter Lacy. “By providing residents with the option to apply for a passport at their local BMV office, we are making it more convenient and accessible for individuals to obtain this essential travel document.”
To apply for a passport at a BMV location, residents will need to bring the following documents:
– A completed passport application form
– Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
– Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or state ID card
– A passport photo
– Payment for the passport application fee
Once these documents are submitted, BMV staff will review the application and forward it to the U.S. Department of State for processing. Residents can expect to receive their passport in the mail within a few weeks.
The new passport service is part of a broader effort by the BMV to expand its offering and provide more services to Indiana residents. In recent years, the BMV has introduced new services such as online license renewals, Real ID compliance, and self-service kiosks.
“We are committed to modernizing the BMV and making it easier for residents to access the services they need,” said Commissioner Lacy. “Our goal is to provide a one-stop shop for all of their identification and licensing needs.”
In addition to the new passport service, the BMV is also planning to launch a mobile passport unit that will travel to different parts of the state to help residents apply for passports. This mobile unit will be equipped with all the necessary equipment and staff to process passport applications on the spot.
“We understand that not everyone has easy access to a BMV location, especially in rural areas,” said Commissioner Lacy. “The mobile passport unit will help bridge that gap and ensure that all Indiana residents have access to this important service.”
The BMV’s new passport service has already received positive feedback from residents who have used it during a pilot program. Many have praised the convenience and efficiency of the process, noting that it was much easier than going to a separate passport acceptance facility.
“I was pleasantly surprised by how quick and easy it was to apply for a passport at the BMV,” said Indianapolis resident Sarah Jenkins. “I didn’t have to wait in line or deal with any paperwork. The staff were friendly and helpful, and I received my passport in the mail just a few weeks later.”
With the launch of this new service, the BMV is encouraging Indiana residents to start planning their international travel and ensure they have a valid passport well in advance. Whether residents are planning a vacation, studying abroad, or need a passport for work, the BMV is ready to help them through the application process.
“We are here to support Indiana residents in their travel plans and make sure they have everything they need to have a smooth and seamless experience,” said Commissioner Lacy. “We are excited to be able to offer this new service and look forward to helping more residents get their passports.”
Residents can visit the BMV’s website for more information on the new passport service, including a list of participating locations and instructions on how to apply. With this new option available, getting a passport in Indiana has never been easier.
