Cave Creek Post Office Passport Services

Yes, expedited service is definitely an option for passport applications submitted at the Cave Creek Post Office, which is crucial for residents of Cave Creek and Carefree facing tight travel deadlines. You can request expedited processing directly on your DS-11 form during your appointment. This will significantly shorten the government’s processing time for your application. There is an additional fee of $60, payable to the U.S. Department of State, which is added to the standard application fees. While the Post Office can accept your expedited application, they do not directly control the processing speed once it leaves their facility. For the absolute fastest turnaround, particularly if you need your passport in less than 2-3 weeks, consider paying for overnight delivery both to and from the passport agency. The Post Office staff at 38400 N School House Rd can guide you through these additional shipping options and their associated costs.

To ensure a smooth passport application process at the Cave Creek Post Office, you will need to bring several key documents. First, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. Photocopies of these documents are also required, front and back, on separate sheets of paper. Second, a valid government-issued identification, like an Arizona driver’s license or a state ID card, is necessary; again, provide a photocopy of both sides. Third, a completed but UNSIGNED DS-11 application form. Finally, you must present two recent, identical passport photos that meet State Department specifications. The Post Office at 38400 N School House Rd can take these photos on-site for a fee, which is often the most convenient option to ensure compliance.

The Cave Creek Post Office acts primarily as an acceptance facility for *new* passport applications (Form DS-11), which are required for first-time applicants, minors, or those whose previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago, was lost/stolen, or is significantly damaged. If you meet the criteria for renewing your passport by mail (i.e., your most recent passport is intact, was issued when you were 16 or older, and is less than 15 years old), you can complete Form DS-82 yourself. This form, along with your old passport, new photos, and payment, is then mailed directly to the National Passport Processing Center. While you cannot *process* the renewal at the counter here, you can purchase postage for your mailed renewal or even have passport photos taken at the Cave Creek Post Office before sending your DS-82 packet.

Passport photos submitted with your application at the Cave Creek Post Office must adhere to strict U.S. Department of State guidelines to avoid processing delays. Specifically, each photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size. Your head should be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. They must be in color, taken within the last six months, and against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses are permitted, and your expression should be neutral with both eyes open. The most reliable way to ensure your photos meet all these specifications is to utilize the on-site photo service available at the Cave Creek Post Office for a fee, typically $15. This guarantees immediate compliance and eliminates the worry of rejections due to improper sizing or background.

Yes, for any applicant under 16, both parents or legal guardians are generally required to appear in person with the child at the Cave Creek Post Office to apply for a passport. This regulation is in place to prevent international child abduction and ensure legal custody is verified. Both parents must present valid government-issued identification and provide proof of parental relationship (e.g., the child’s birth certificate) and their consent for the passport to be issued. If one parent is unable to attend due to extraordinary circumstances, they must submit a notarized Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent, along with a copy of their ID. The passport acceptance agents at 38400 N School House Rd are experienced in handling these specific requirements for minors and can provide detailed guidance to ensure all necessary documentation is in order for your child’s application.

The passport office is located at 38400 N SCHOOL HOUSE RD, CAVE CREEK, AZ 85331. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 4805959598.0 to confirm before visiting.

Photos on-site: 1. If available, photos typically cost around $15 in cash.

Routine processing takes 12-13 weeks. Expedited service (additional $60 fee) takes 7-9 weeks. Our expedited service gets your passport in 3-10 days.

Most facilities accept check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments: one to “U.S. Department of State” ($130) and one to “CAVE CREEK POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

Handicap access: 1. The facility is ADA compliant with accessible entrances and facilities.

Parking for the Cave Creek Post Office is remarkably convenient, featuring a dedicated, free 30-space asphalt lot directly adjacent to the building off North School House Road. This lot is a substantial benefit, as street parking is generally limited to short-term spaces along Cave Creek Road. Upon entering the post office driveway from N School House Road, you’ll find ample spaces immediately to your left and right, with a few designated accessible spots located closest to the main entrance. While this lot is almost always sufficient, especially during off-peak hours (mid-morning or late afternoon), it can fill up during the lunchtime rush, typically between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays, and particularly on Saturday mornings. If the primary lot happens to be full, a secondary option exists less than half a block away: the public parking lot for the Cave Creek Town Hall, situated just across N School House Road. This lot offers an additional 25 free spaces and is a comfortable 0.1-mile walk (approximately 2 minutes) to the Post Office entrance. For those arriving for passport appointments, the best strategy is to aim for mid-morning (9:30 AM – 11:00 AM) or early afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) to ensure prime parking availability. During the peak summer months, from June through September, temperatures in Cave Creek frequently exceed 100°F. It is strongly advised to park as close as possible and to ensure windows are cracked or sunshades used to mitigate interior heat buildup. Conversely, winter mornings can be crisp, so a quick walk from the Town Hall lot is usually quite pleasant.

No, passport renewals cannot be done at acceptance facilities. Renewals must be mailed directly to the State Department using Form DS-82, or you can use our expedited renewal service.

If you’re traveling soon, our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 days. We handle everything from document review to delivery, with 24/7 support. Call 800-860-8610 to get started.