Orinda Post Office Passport Services

Yes, the Orinda Post Office at 29 Orinda Way does offer on-site passport photo services for your convenience. This service is available during their regular retail hours, generally Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, though it’s always best to confirm when scheduling your passport appointment. The cost for two compliant 2×2 inch passport photos is typically $18, payable at the time of service. Utilizing this service ensures your photos meet all Department of State specifications for background, head size, and expression, minimizing any potential delays in your application process. You can have your photos taken either just before or during your scheduled passport application appointment, streamlining your visit. Just inform the postal clerk when you check in that you require photos.

Whether you can renew your passport at the Orinda Post Office depends on your specific situation. If you are eligible to renew by mail using Form DS-82 (e.g., your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and you use the same name or can document a name change), you generally cannot submit it in person at the post office. Mail-in renewals should be sent directly to the National Passport Processing Center. However, if you do not meet the DS-82 criteria and must apply in person using Form DS-11 (for instance, if your passport is significantly damaged, expired over 15 years ago, or was issued when you were under 16), then yes, the Orinda Post Office acts as an acceptance facility for these types of renewals. You will need to schedule an appointment and bring all required documentation, just like a first-time applicant.

Absolutely, the Orinda Post Office is equipped to provide high-quality, compliant passport photos right on-site. We understand how crucial it is for your photos to meet the strict 2×2 inch, white background, and neutral expression requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. Our trained staff will ensure your photos are taken correctly to avoid any application rejections due to non-compliant images. The cost for this service is usually $18 for a set of two photos. This convenient option means you don’t need to make an extra trip to a separate photo studio before your passport appointment at 29 Orinda Way. It’s a quick process, typically taking less than 10 minutes, and ensures a seamless experience for your passport application.

U.S. passport photos must be exactly 2×2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size. This specific dimension ensures consistency and proper identification across all travel documents. It’s essential that your head, measured from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm – 35 mm). At the Orinda Post Office, our photo service is specifically calibrated to meet these precise specifications, ensuring your submitted photo will not cause delays. The background must be plain white or off-white, and you should face the camera with a neutral expression or a natural, slight smile, with both eyes open. No glasses are permitted in passport photos, and your full face must be visible.

When visiting the Orinda Post Office for your passport application, you’ll need to gather several key documents. Foremost, you’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as an original birth certificate with a raised seal or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport. Next, bring valid identification, like a state-issued driver’s license or government employee ID. You must also have a completed, unsigned Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport), which you can fill out online and print, or obtain at the post office. Lastly, you’ll need one 2×2 inch passport photo. Remember to bring photocopies (front and back) of both your citizenship evidence and ID, as these will be submitted with your application. All required fees must be paid via check or money order.

The passport office is located at 29 ORINDA WAY, ORINDA, CA 94563. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 9252546603.0 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 “ORINDA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Orinda Post Office is relatively convenient, though strategy can help during peak hours. The most direct option is the limited street parking available directly on Orinda Way in front of the post office. These are metered spots, typically costing $1.50 per hour from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, with a two-hour limit. There are approximately 15 such spaces, which can fill quickly. For a more reliable and often free option, consider the Orinda Village Public Parking Lot. This substantial 70-space free lot is located just behind the Orinda Community Library, accessible via Orinda Way or Orinda Way at Santa Maria Way. From this lot, the Post Office is a pleasant 0.15-mile walk, roughly a 3-minute stroll directly east across Orinda Way. Arriving 15-20 minutes prior to your passport appointment is advisable to secure parking, especially on weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, which tend to be the busiest. During the summer months, the sun exposure in the surface lots can make cars quite warm, so consider a sunshade. In winter, Orinda’s occasional rain can make the short walk from the library lot a bit damp, so an umbrella is a wise accessory.

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.