How does one go about putting in a lateral package for the IV rate. I know I have to contact a local office to find out if they have billets open. What other steps are required?

That's a good start. Then there is usually an informal interview (meet and greet) which then may result in the formal process starting.

Where are you located? I can let you know where the nearest office is.

I believe the requirements state that you need 30 semester hours to begin the process. Is there any sort of waiver. I am currently in pursuit of my degree and also on a patrol boat. My time has constrained me to only 1 or 2 classes at a time and i would like to begin the process. so do i wait it out and finish or start talking to someone.

The 30 semester hour requirement is for AD agent applicants. This requirement is no longer waiverable.

IV applicants need to be fulltime, certified, academy-trained local, county, state, or federal LEOs with minumum three years fulltime experience, preferably in investigations.