Cayucos Post Office Passport Services

Passport renewal eligibility at the Cayucos Post Office depends on specific criteria. If your most recent passport was issued less than 15 years ago, you were at least 16 years old when it was issued, and it is undamaged, you can typically renew by mail using Form DS-82. In such cases, you would simply mail your application directly to the National Passport Processing Center. However, if your passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you were under 16 when it was issued, or it is significantly damaged, you must apply in person using Form DS-11, just like a first-time applicant. The Cayucos Post Office accepts these in-person DS-11 applications. Always double-check the renewal criteria on the Department of State’s website before scheduling an appointment to determine if an in-person visit to 97 Ash Street is necessary for your specific situation.

When applying for a passport at the Cayucos Post Office, you have two primary processing options: routine and expedited. Routine processing is the standard service, which, as of November 2024, generally takes 7-10 weeks for your passport to be delivered. This is the more economical choice. Expedited processing, on the other hand, is a faster service available for an additional fee of $60. With expedited service, your application is prioritized, and the current processing time is approximately 3-5 weeks. This quicker turnaround is ideal if you have an upcoming international trip or an urgent need for your passport. Both options include standard delivery, but expedited shipping for an additional fee can further reduce mail time. Discussing your travel timeline with the acceptance agent at Window 3 can help you choose the best option for your needs.

Unfortunately, the Cayucos Post Office at 97 Ash Street does not offer on-site passport photo services. You’ll need to obtain compliant passport photos before your scheduled appointment. Several local businesses in the vicinity, such as the CVS Pharmacy at 18 N Ocean Avenue or the UPS Store in Morro Bay (a short 10-minute drive south), are equipped to provide official 2×2 inch passport photos that meet federal guidelines. It’s crucial that your photos adhere to all requirements regarding size, background, lighting, and expression to avoid application delays. Bringing pre-approved photos ensures a smoother and quicker application process during your visit to the post office. Double-check the Department of State’s photo requirements beforehand to ensure compliance.

After submitting your passport application at the Cayucos Post Office, tracking its status is a straightforward process. Approximately 7-10 business days after your appointment, your application will be entered into the U.S. Department of State’s system. You can then visit their official website, passportstatus.state.gov, and use their Online Passport Status System. You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to access your application’s status. This system provides updates on whether your application is ‘In Process,’ ‘Approved,’ or ‘Mailed.’ While the Cayucos Post Office cannot provide real-time updates once your application leaves their facility, this online tool is a reliable resource for monitoring your passport’s journey until it arrives via USPS.

No, passport services at the Cayucos Post Office are strictly by appointment only. This policy ensures that the acceptance agent at 97 Ash Street has dedicated time for each applicant, minimizing wait times and ensuring thorough processing. Walk-ins for passport applications cannot be accommodated, as the post office prioritizes scheduled services to maintain efficiency and provide the best possible experience for all patrons. It is highly recommended to schedule your appointment well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. You can typically book an appointment through the USPS online scheduler or by calling the post office directly during business hours. Arriving without a prior booking will unfortunately result in being turned away for passport services.

The passport office is located at 97 ASH ST, CAYUCOS, CA 93430. Get directions

Hours are 9:00-15:00. Call ahead at 8059953479.0 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 “CAYUCOS POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Cayucos Post Office is generally straightforward, though it requires specific attention during peak tourist seasons. The most immediate option is street parking directly on Ash Street. There are typically 8-10 free, unmarked spaces directly in front of and alongside the post office building. These are typically one-hour limit spots, ample for a passport appointment. If these spots are occupied, a reliable alternative is the free public parking lot located one block north, accessible via Main Street, between Ash Street and Ocean Avenue. This municipal lot offers approximately 30-40 spaces and is rarely completely full, even on busy days. From this lot, it’s a short, flat 0.1-mile walk south on Ash Street to the post office entrance. During the bustling summer months (June through August) and on popular holiday weekends, parking on Ash Street can become competitive, especially mid-day. Your best strategy for an appointment is to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early to secure a spot either on Ash Street or in the nearby municipal lot. Avoiding appointments between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekdays during summer can also alleviate parking stress. In winter, the parking is far less constrained, but coastal fog can occasionally reduce visibility, so exercise caution. There are no metered parking spaces or dedicated parking garages within a half-mile radius, simplifying your decision-making. Always double-check street signs for any temporary restrictions, though these are uncommon in this area of Cayucos.

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.