Desert Hot Springs Passport Services

For urgent passport needs in Desert Hot Springs, the local post office at 66311 Two Bunch Palms Trail does not offer same-day issuance. Your primary option for extremely fast processing (within 2-3 business days) is to schedule an appointment at a Passport Agency, such as the Los Angeles Passport Agency. This requires proof of imminent international travel. Alternatively, you can apply for expedited processing at the Desert Hot Springs facility by paying an additional $60 fee to the Department of State. This service significantly reduces the processing time from several weeks to an average of 2-3 weeks, as of November 2024. For quicker delivery of your completed passport, you can also opt for 1-2 day return delivery service for an additional charge when you apply. Locally, if you need to send documents quickly, the Desert Hot Springs Post Office can facilitate Priority Mail Express, ensuring your application reaches the processing center faster.

Passport photos must adhere to strict United States Department of State guidelines to be accepted. Each photo needs to be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size, printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper. 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. The background must be plain white or off-white, free of shadows or patterns. You must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open. Hats, glasses, and uniforms are generally not permitted. The Desert Hot Springs Post Office does not provide photo services, so you’ll need to bring two compliant photos with you. Luckily, the Walgreens located at 14001 Palm Drive, just 0.2 miles away, offers passport photo services that meet these specific requirements, making it a convenient stop before your appointment.

The Desert Hot Springs Post Office primarily serves as an acceptance facility for *new* passport applications (Form DS-11) and for minors. Most adult passport renewals (Form DS-82) are handled via mail directly to the National Passport Processing Center. You are eligible to renew by mail if your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and you can provide it with your renewal application. If you meet these criteria, you should fill out Form DS-82, include your old passport, a new photo, and the applicable fees, then mail it yourself. You do not need an appointment at the Desert Hot Springs Post Office for a standard renewal. However, if your passport is significantly damaged, was issued more than 15 years ago, or you were under 16 when it was issued, you will need to apply in person at the Desert Hot Springs facility using Form DS-11, just like a first-time applicant.

Yes, absolutely. For a child under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians are required to appear in person with the child at the Desert Hot Springs Post Office when submitting a passport application. This is a crucial security measure. You will both need to present valid government-issued photo identification and proof of your parental relationship (such as the child’s birth certificate listing both parents). If one parent is unable to attend, they must provide a signed, notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with a copy of the front and back of their ID. The passport acceptance agent at 66311 Two Bunch Palms Trail will verify all documentation to ensure the child’s identity and citizenship are accurately established before processing the application.

Yes, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment for passport services at the Desert Hot Springs Post Office. While some post offices might accommodate walk-ins on a limited basis, the facility at 66311 Two Bunch Palms Trail operates primarily by appointment to ensure efficient service and minimize wait times for all customers. Scheduling an appointment guarantees that an acceptance agent will be available to assist you without extensive delays. You can easily book an appointment online through the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler on the official USPS website. Attempting to walk in without an appointment, especially during peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon), may result in long waits or the inability to be seen due to a fully booked schedule. Planning ahead by scheduling your visit ensures a smooth and timely application process here in Desert Hot Springs.

The passport office is located at 66311 TWO BUNCH PALMS TRAIL, DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA 92240. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 7602510749.0 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 “DESERT HOT SPRINGS” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Desert Hot Springs Post Office is quite convenient, primarily due to the dedicated, free surface lot situated directly in front of the building at 66311 Two Bunch Palms Trail. This lot offers approximately 25 marked spaces, including several ADA-compliant spots, making it generally easy to find parking, even during busier periods. The entrance to the lot is directly off Two Bunch Palms Trail, just a quick turn-off east of Palm Drive. For passport appointments, it’s advisable to arrive about 10-15 minutes early to secure a prime spot and avoid any last-minute rushes. Should the main lot be unexpectedly full, which is rare outside of peak holiday mailing seasons, additional street parking is occasionally available on Two Bunch Palms Trail itself, though these are unmarked spots and less reliably open. However, given the facility’s location, the dedicated lot is almost always sufficient. During Desert Hot Springs’s intense summer months (June-September), temperatures can easily exceed 100°F. It’s wise to park as close as possible, utilize any available shade if parked further out, and consider early morning appointments to avoid the midday heat. Conversely, during the mild winter, parking is a pleasant experience with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, though occasionally high winds can kick up desert dust, so ensure windows are closed tightly.

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.