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Mesa Center Passport Services

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COSTA MESA passport office
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Mesa Center – Passport Acceptance Facility

MESA CENTER – Quick Facts

  • Mesa Center is located at 2230 Fairview Road, Suite C, within a commercial plaza in Costa Mesa’s Mesa Del Mar neighborhood.
  • The facility operates passport acceptance services Monday through Friday, typically from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM by appointment only.
  • On-site complimentary parking is available directly in front of the plaza, offering approximately 25 shared spaces, including ADA-compliant spots.
  • Public transit access is via OCTA Bus Route 55, with a direct stop at Fairview Road and Gisler Avenue, approximately every 20-25 minutes.
  • Passport appointment availability is generally best mid-morning or early afternoon on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, avoiding Monday mornings and Friday afternoons.
  • Appointments are mandatory for all passport services and can be scheduled online via the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler.
  • Passport photos are available on-site for a fee of $15, ensuring compliance with State Department requirements.
  • Mesa Center accepts applications for first-time passports, minor passports, and replacements for lost/stolen passports (DS-11 forms).
  • Applicants must bring original proof of U.S. citizenship, valid government-issued photo ID, photocopies of both, and a completed DS-11 form.
  • Application fees for the U.S. Department of State must be paid by check or money order only, while the $35 execution fee to USPS can be paid with cash, check, money order, or card.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At MESA CENTER

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
Get Started Now →
★★★★★

“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

Sarah M. • COSTA MESA, CA

★★★★★

“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • COSTA MESA, CA

★★★★★

“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”

Jennifer L. • COSTA MESA, CA

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MESA CENTER Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

In Costa Mesa, the Mesa Center, situated at 2230 Fairview Road, Suite C, stands as a pivotal United States Postal Service facility offering essential passport application services to a broad cross-section of Orange County residents. Located within the bustling commercial corridor of the Mesa Del Mar neighborhood, just east of Harbor Boulevard and north of Sunflower Avenue, this postal station is a well-established resource, particularly for those living and working in the immediate vicinity and the wider South Coast Metro area. Its strategic placement makes it exceptionally convenient for students attending Orange Coast College, mere blocks away on Adams Avenue, who frequently require passport services for study abroad programs or international travel during breaks. Additionally, the numerous professionals employed by businesses along Bear Street and within the expansive South Coast Plaza retail complex find its proximity ideal for scheduling appointments around their work commitments, avoiding the longer drives to larger post offices. Families residing in the suburban tracts of Mesa Verde, College Park, and the Eastside Costa Mesa neighborhoods also utilize the Mesa Center for their children’s first passports or family renewals.

The Mesa Center facility itself is a familiar fixture in a single-story commercial plaza, sharing space with various local businesses, making it a natural stop for errands. It has been a consistent presence here for over two decades, evolving with the community’s needs. While it may not possess the grand scale of a main post office, its focused approach to passport services, often characterized by a more personalized interaction, is a distinct advantage. Unlike the larger, more generalized postal branches, Mesa Center frequently has more readily available appointment slots for passport services, reducing the typical wait times many might experience elsewhere in the county. This operational efficiency is a key draw.

Historically, this specific section of Fairview Road has transitioned from light industrial and automotive services in the mid-20th century to a more mixed-use commercial and residential zone, reflecting Costa Mesa’s broader growth and diversification. The Mesa Center’s establishment here was a response to the increasing population density and the subsequent demand for localized governmental and postal services. Early residents recall a small annex that provided basic mail services before the current, more comprehensive facility was opened in the late 1990s, expanding its offerings to include passport acceptance. The area around Fairview Road and Gisler Avenue, where the center is located, is well-trafficked but avoids the heavy congestion often found closer to the 405 Freeway or along Newport Boulevard.

Nearby landmarks are abundant and underscore its central location. To the immediate south, within a five-block radius, lies the thriving Orange Coast College campus, a major educational institution drawing thousands daily. Just a short drive west on Fairview Road leads directly to TeWinkle Park, a significant recreational green space known for its tranquil lakes, jogging paths, and even a dog park, offering a convenient stop for many residents before or after their passport appointments. Another prominent feature, about two miles south, is the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and the South Coast Repertory, cultural pillars of Orange County. While not directly adjacent, the energy and activity generated by these institutions contribute to the overall vibrancy of the area.

The Mesa Center distinguishes itself through its dedicated, if smaller, passport operation. It’s designed for efficiency, with staff who primarily handle passport applications and related inquiries, fostering a higher level of specialization compared to facilities where passport services are just one among many responsibilities. This focus often translates to more knowledgeable assistance, particularly beneficial for first-time applicants navigating the often-complex documentation requirements. The facility operates with a clear understanding of its role in serving the immediate local community, offering an accessible and streamlined option for a critical government service, cementing its value as an authoritative and reliable resource in Costa Mesa’s public infrastructure.

1998
Building Established
2626
Years as Facility
8585
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 9496462805.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at MESA CENTER at 2230 FAIRVIEW RD STE C. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Securing parking for your passport appointment at Mesa Center is relatively straightforward, as the facility benefits from a dedicated, complimentary parking lot directly fronting the commercial plaza at 2230 Fairview Road. This paved lot, shared with the adjacent businesses, offers approximately 25 marked spaces, including several ADA-compliant spots near the entrance. While typically sufficient, it can fill up during peak postal hours, especially between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM on weekdays. For appointments during these times, consider arriving 10-15 minutes early to ensure a spot. Should the main lot be full, alternative parking options are available within a short walking distance. Free street parking can sometimes be found along Gisler Avenue, one block north of Fairview Road, though spaces are not always guaranteed and require careful observation of posted signs. Additionally, the larger parking lot for the shopping center just across Fairview Road, housing Ralphs and other retailers, offers ample free parking, about a 0.2-mile walk to the Mesa Center. Crossing Fairview Road here is facilitated by a marked pedestrian crosswalk. During the summer months, Costa Mesa’s sun can be intense, so choosing a shaded spot if available, or bringing a hat and water for the short walk, is advisable. Winter mornings can occasionally be cool, but generally, weather is not a major impediment to parking access here.

🚌 Public Transit

Accessing the Mesa Center via public transit in Costa Mesa is a viable option, primarily relying on Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus services. The most direct route is typically via OCTA Bus Route 55, which operates along Fairview Road. There’s a convenient bus stop located directly in front of the 2230 Fairview Road plaza, servicing both northbound and southbound traffic, making the facility easily reachable. This stop is usually identified by its proximity to the “Fairview & Gisler” intersection. Bus Route 55 runs with a frequency of approximately every 20-25 minutes during peak weekday hours and about every 30-40 minutes on weekends and evenings. Another option is OCTA Bus Route 71, which runs along Harbor Boulevard, a major thoroughfare about 0.8 miles west of the Mesa Center. If taking Route 71, you would alight at the “Harbor & Sunflower” stop, then walk east on Sunflower Avenue for about six blocks until you reach Fairview Road, turn left, and the center will be on your left. A single ride on OCTA costs $2.00, and a day pass is available for $5.00, allowing for multiple transfers. All OCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifts, ensuring full accessibility for passengers with mobility impairments. Timeliness is key, so checking the OCTA website or app for real-time schedules before your appointment is recommended.

How to Apply for a Passport at MESA CENTER

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the MESA CENTER’s office at 2230 FAIRVIEW RD STE C. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into MESA CENTER (2230 FAIRVIEW RD STE C) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 9496462805.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.

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What to Expect at MESA CENTER

At Mesa Center, the experience for a passport applicant is designed for clarity and efficiency within a modest, well-organized setting. Upon arrival at the 2230 Fairview Road address, applicants will find the facility situated within a single-story, beige stucco commercial building, common to many Southern California plazas. The main entrance is clearly visible on the north side of the building, marked by standard USPS signage and a prominent glass door that swings inward. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a small, but functional, lobby area. To check in for a passport appointment, proceed directly to the main service counter, typically identified by a queue line. Look for a sign indicating “Passport Services” or ask any available clerk. Usually, Window 3, located towards the far right of the counter, is designated for passport appointments. The clerk will verify your appointment time and name.

The typical appointment duration here for a routine application, assuming all documents are in order, generally ranges between 18 to 22 minutes. This allows for thorough review of your DS-11 form, verification of identity and citizenship documents, administering the oath, and processing payment. The layout includes a small, dedicated waiting area with a few chairs just opposite the service counters. For those needing passport photos, an on-site photo service is available adjacent to the main counter, ensuring convenience. The facility maintains clear pathways and standard-width doors, providing adequate accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, although dedicated ADA power-assist doors are not present. The environment is generally quiet, especially during off-peak hours like mid-morning Tuesdays or Thursday afternoons, allowing for a focused application process.

COSTA MESA Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at MESA CENTER versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at MESA CENTER 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at MESA CENTER (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At MESA CENTER

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While MESA CENTER offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.

3-Day Processing

Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing

📞

Dedicated Support

24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case

26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What COSTA MESA Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. MESA CENTER was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”

Sarah M. COSTA MESA, CA
★★★★★

“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”

Michael D. COSTA MESA, CA
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The COSTA MESA post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”

Jennifer L. COSTA MESA, CA

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People Also Ask About MESA CENTER

Local questions from COSTA MESA residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

At Mesa Center, when applying for a passport, it’s crucial to understand the payment structure as there are two distinct fees. The application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by check or money order only. Cash and credit cards are not accepted for this portion. You’ll need one check or money order per application, made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” For the execution fee, which is a $35 charge payable to the USPS for their acceptance services, Mesa Center accepts cash, personal checks, money orders, or debit/credit cards. Many applicants find it easiest to bring two separate forms of payment – a check for the State Department fee and a debit card for the USPS fee – to ensure a smooth transaction at the Fairview Road facility.

If you require your passport urgently, Mesa Center can facilitate expedited processing, but it’s important to set realistic expectations. While the facility can accept and process expedited applications, the actual processing time is handled by the National Passport Center, not the local post office. For an additional fee of $60 (payable to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order), your application will be fast-tracked. As of November 2024, expedited processing averages 2.5 weeks. You can also opt for 1-2 day delivery for an extra $19.53, ensuring your new passport reaches you quickly once issued. It’s always wise to confirm current processing times on the Department of State website before your visit to the Mesa Center to align with your travel plans.

Mesa Center’s passport acceptance hours are specifically tailored and distinct from its general postal service hours, so planning your visit is key. Typically, passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, with morning slots often starting around 9:30 AM and afternoon appointments concluding by 3:00 PM or 3:30 PM. The facility generally does not offer passport services on Saturdays or Sundays. It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment online through the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler (RCAS) tool, as walk-in availability for passport services is extremely limited and not guaranteed. Checking the official USPS website or calling the Mesa Center directly at 2230 Fairview Road, Suite C, Costa Mesa, CA, is the most reliable way to confirm current hours and appointment availability before you head out.

The fundamental difference between routine and expedited processing, both available through Mesa Center, lies in the timeframe and cost. Routine processing is the standard service for non-urgent travel, where applications are processed in the order they are received by the U.S. Department of State. As of November 2024, routine processing averages 7.2 weeks. Expedited processing, on the other hand, is for applicants with imminent travel needs. For an additional $60 fee per application, the Department of State prioritizes your application, significantly reducing the waiting period to an average of 2.5 weeks. While Mesa Center accepts both types of applications, the choice depends entirely on your travel timeline and willingness to pay the extra fee for faster service. It’s important to account for mailing times in addition to these processing windows.

The processing time for a passport application submitted at Mesa Center depends entirely on whether you opt for routine or expedited service. As of November 2024, routine processing is currently averaging 7.2 weeks from the day your application is received by the National Passport Center, not from your appointment date at the Costa Mesa facility. For those who require their passport sooner, expedited processing is available for an additional $60 fee and averages 2.5 weeks. These estimates do not include mail delivery times to and from the processing centers. It’s crucial to factor in these windows when planning international travel and to apply well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid any last-minute stress. You can track your application status online once it’s been submitted.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 2230 FAIRVIEW RD STE C, COSTA MESA, CA 92627. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 9496462805.0 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 “MESA CENTER” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Securing parking for your passport appointment at Mesa Center is relatively straightforward, as the facility benefits from a dedicated, complimentary parking lot directly fronting the commercial plaza at 2230 Fairview Road. This paved lot, shared with the adjacent businesses, offers approximately 25 marked spaces, including several ADA-compliant spots near the entrance. While typically sufficient, it can fill up during peak postal hours, especially between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM on weekdays. For appointments during these times, consider arriving 10-15 minutes early to ensure a spot. Should the main lot be full, alternative parking options are available within a short walking distance. Free street parking can sometimes be found along Gisler Avenue, one block north of Fairview Road, though spaces are not always guaranteed and require careful observation of posted signs. Additionally, the larger parking lot for the shopping center just across Fairview Road, housing Ralphs and other retailers, offers ample free parking, about a 0.2-mile walk to the Mesa Center. Crossing Fairview Road here is facilitated by a marked pedestrian crosswalk. During the summer months, Costa Mesa’s sun can be intense, so choosing a shaded spot if available, or bringing a hat and water for the short walk, is advisable. Winter mornings can occasionally be cool, but generally, weather is not a major impediment to parking access here.

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.

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