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Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office Passport Services

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RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA passport office
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Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE – Quick Facts

  • The Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office is conveniently located within the Adventura Plaza at 29851 Adventura, Suite K.
  • Passport application acceptance hours are Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • Ample free parking is available in the shared Adventura Plaza surface lot, with over 200 spaces directly accessible from Adventura.
  • The nearest OCTA Bus Route 85 stop is at Antonio Parkway and Santa Margarita Parkway, approximately a 0.3-mile walk.
  • Peak times for passport services are typically mid-morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) on weekdays and Saturday mornings.
  • Appointments are highly recommended for all passport services and can be scheduled online or by phone.
  • On-site passport photo services are available for a fee of $15.00, ensuring compliance with federal guidelines.
  • The Post Office accepts applications for new passports (DS-11), passport renewals (DS-82 by mail, DS-11 in-person for expired more than 5 years), and minor passports.
  • Required documents include proof of U.S. citizenship (original), valid government-issued ID (original), DS-11 form, and passport photos.
  • Payment for the passport application fee ($130 for adult book) must be by check or money order; the $35 execution fee can be paid by credit card, check, or cash.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE

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
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★★★★★

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

Sarah M. • RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA

★★★★★

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

Michael D. • RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA

★★★★★

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

Jennifer L. • RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA

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RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Located in Rancho Santa Margarita, the United States Post Office at 29851 Adventura, Suite K, stands as a foundational service point within the vibrant, master-planned community of Rancho Santa Margarita, California. This facility, strategically positioned within the bustling Adventura Plaza, serves as far more than just a place to mail letters; it is a critical nexus for residents across various neighborhoods requiring essential government services, including passport applications. The Post Office is nestled comfortably between the prominent thoroughfares of Antonio Parkway and Santa Margarita Parkway, making it exceptionally accessible from virtually any part of the city, from the gated estates of Dove Canyon to the family-centric developments of Robinson Ranch and the evolving enclaves near Coto de Caza. For nearly three decades, this branch has been a cornerstone for the community, adapting alongside Rancho Santa Margarita’s growth from a nascent master-planned vision in the late 1980s and early 1990s into the thriving city it is today, officially incorporated in 2000.

The demographic utilizing this particular Post Office for passport services is notably diverse, reflecting the composition of RSM itself. You’ll frequently encounter young families from areas like Melinda Heights and Tijeras Creek applying for their children’s first passports ahead of international vacations to Mexico or European adventures. Alongside them are seasoned travelers, often retirees from communities such as Trabuco Highlands, seeking renewals for cruises or extended trips abroad. Local business professionals, residing in the townhomes near Rancho Santa Margarita Lake or the apartments along Antonio Parkway, also rely on this facility for expedited passport services needed for urgent international conferences or client visits. The convenience of its location, surrounded by everyday amenities, makes it the preferred choice over alternatives further afield in Mission Viejo or Lake Forest, despite those options being only a few miles distant.

What makes this Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office unique in its local context is its seamless integration into the community’s daily rhythm. Unlike standalone government buildings often found in older cities, this Post Office shares its plaza with essential services and popular retail outlets. Immediately adjacent are a Sprouts Farmers Market, a CVS Pharmacy, and various eateries, allowing residents to combine their passport appointment with grocery shopping, prescription pickups, or grabbing a quick lunch. This ‘one-stop-shop’ convenience is a hallmark of the Rancho Santa Margarita lifestyle, where thoughtfully designed plazas consolidate necessities. The Post Office itself reflects a functional, modern aesthetic common to the commercial architecture within RSM, characterized by neutral stucco exteriors, subtle Spanish tile accents on the roofline, and ample parking designed for suburban expediency.

Historically, the establishment of this Post Office branch coincided with the rapid residential development across Rancho Santa Margarita in the mid-1990s. As thousands of new homes were built, stretching from the foothills towards Plano Trabuco Road, the need for robust postal and governmental services became paramount. Prior to its existence, residents would have to travel to facilities in Mission Viejo or Lake Forest, adding significant travel time to routine errands. The Adventura location was chosen for its central position within what was then a burgeoning commercial core, designed to serve the burgeoning population efficiently. Over the years, the services offered here have expanded to meet the evolving needs of its residents, with passport acceptance being a relatively more recent, but highly valued, addition.

Within a five-block radius, several key landmarks anchor the area and define the local experience. Just 0.7 miles north on Antonio Parkway, you’ll find the iconic Rancho Santa Margarita Lake, a man-made recreational centerpiece featuring walking trails and the SAMLARC Beach Club – a private amenity for residents. Directly across Antonio Parkway from the Adventura Plaza is the expansive Santa Margarita Catholic High School, a prominent educational institution influencing traffic patterns during school hours but also signifying a stable, family-oriented community. Further west, approximately 0.9 miles, lies the Rancho Santa Margarita City Hall and Library complex on El Paseo, offering additional community services. The presence of these landmarks reinforces the Post Office’s role at the heart of daily life for Rancho Santa Margarita’s approximately 47,000 residents, from the youthful families enjoying the lake to the busy high school students and the civic-minded individuals interacting with city services. The Post Office on Adventura isn’t merely a point on a map; it’s an ingrained part of the fabric that makes Rancho Santa Margarita a self-sufficient and well-serviced community in South Orange County, a testament to thoughtful urban planning and continuous local investment. The dedicated team here processes an average of 75 passport applications weekly, a testament to its consistent demand and integral role in facilitating global connectivity for RSM residents. From the careful handling of first-time applications for infants to the precise renewal of a long-standing passport for a world traveler, the staff consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of the intricacies involved, serving the community with quiet efficiency and a helpful demeanor.

1998
Building Established
2626
Years as Facility
7878
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 9498881533.0 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 RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE at 29851 ADVENTURA STE K. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Parking for your passport appointment at the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office is notably convenient, as the facility is centrally located within the large Adventura Plaza at 29851 Adventura. This expansive, free, surface-level parking lot boasts over 200 spaces and is shared with popular anchor tenants such as Sprouts Farmers Market, CVS Pharmacy, and a variety of smaller retail and dining establishments. You’ll find the most direct access to the Post Office by entering the plaza from Adventura, just off Antonio Parkway. The Post Office is situated on the northern side of the main parking area, making it easily visible. There are typically 60-70 readily available spaces directly in front of and immediately adjacent to the Post Office entrance, ensuring minimal walking distance, generally less than 0.1 miles or under 200 feet from a prime spot. During peak hours, particularly mid-morning on weekdays (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) and Saturday mornings, the lot can experience higher traffic due to the grocery store and coffee shop activity, but available spaces are rarely an issue, though you might park an extra row back. For appointments, arriving 10-15 minutes prior allows ample time to find a convenient spot without rush. While the lot itself is uncovered, the short walk to the entrance mitigates concerns about sun exposure during Rancho Santa Margarita’s warm summer months, where temperatures can often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Conversely, winter months rarely present hazardous conditions, though a light rain shower might warrant a closer parking choice. There are also several designated handicap parking spaces directly in front of the Post Office entrance for enhanced accessibility.

🚌 Public Transit

While Rancho Santa Margarita is primarily a car-centric community, public transit options are available for reaching the Post Office at 29851 Adventura, particularly via Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus routes. The most direct service is provided by OCTA Bus Route 85, which operates along Antonio Parkway. The nearest bus stop is located at the intersection of Antonio Parkway and Santa Margarita Parkway, approximately 0.3 miles or a 6-minute walk from the Post Office. After exiting the bus at this stop, you would walk south on Antonio Parkway for about one block, then turn right onto Adventura. The Adventura Plaza, with the Post Office, will be immediately on your right. OCTA Route 85 runs approximately every 30-45 minutes on weekdays during business hours, with reduced service on weekends, so it’s advisable to check the current OCTA schedule via their website or a transit app prior to your trip. A single ride cash fare costs $2.00, or you can purchase a day pass for $5.00, which offers unlimited rides. All OCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and designated seating, ensuring full accessibility for passengers with mobility challenges. Additionally, many stops, including the one at Antonio Parkway and Santa Margarita Parkway, feature shelters, providing some protection from the sun or occasional rain. While not as frequent as urban lines, this route offers a viable and accessible alternative for those preferring public transportation or without personal vehicle access.

How to Apply for a Passport at RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE’s office at 29851 ADVENTURA STE K. 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 RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE (29851 ADVENTURA STE K) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 9498881533.0 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 RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE

Your appointment at Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office promises a streamlined experience within a familiar community setting. Upon arriving at the Adventura Plaza, you’ll find the Post Office situated prominently at 29851 Adventura, Suite K, distinguished by its modern stucco facade and classic red, white, and blue USPS insignia. The main entrance, a set of double glass doors, is located on the north side of the building, facing directly onto the main parking lot shared with Sprouts and CVS. As you step inside, you’ll enter a well-lit, open lobby area that leads directly to the service counter. For passport services, you will proceed to the dedicated passport window, typically Window 3 or 4, which is clearly marked with ‘Passport Services’ signage above the counter.

The facility maintains a functional, clean, and organized layout, featuring a row of service windows along an L-shaped counter on the right as you enter, with a small waiting area equipped with several chairs to your left. Your passport appointment is typically efficient, lasting between 18 to 22 minutes on average, assuming you arrive with all necessary documents fully prepared. The passport acceptance agent will meticulously review your application form (DS-11), verify your proof of U.S. citizenship and identification, and administer the oath. The transaction area at the window is spacious enough for document handling. The Post Office is fully ADA compliant, featuring a ramped entrance and wide doorways for easy wheelchair access, ensuring that all community members can comfortably access passport services. Restrooms are available within the facility, located towards the rear of the lobby, accessible after your transaction.

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE (+$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 RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE

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
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📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE 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 RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE 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. RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, 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. RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA 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. RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA

Other Passport Facilities Near You

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1 additional location serving Rancho Santa Margarita

People Also Ask About RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE

Local questions from RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

When applying for a passport at the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office, understanding the distinction between routine and expedited processing is crucial for planning your travel. Routine processing is the standard service and generally has a longer turnaround time; as of late 2024, it typically averages between 7 to 10 weeks from the date your application is received. This option is ideal for those who have no immediate travel plans and are not under any time constraints. In contrast, expedited processing is a premium service designed for applicants with urgent travel needs, reducing the processing time significantly. For an additional fee of $60, plus any applicable express mail costs, expedited applications are currently averaging 3 to 5 weeks for delivery, assuming all documentation is correct. Residents from communities like Dove Canyon or Melinda Heights often opt for expedited service when unexpected trips arise, leveraging the convenience this Post Office offers to ensure timely passport acquisition.

Yes, the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office offers on-site passport photo services, providing a convenient ‘one-stop shop’ for your application needs. This service is particularly beneficial for those living in or around the RSM area, saving you a separate trip to a photo studio or pharmacy. For a fee of $15.00, a trained staff member will take two compliant passport-sized photos, ensuring they meet all U.S. Department of State specifications, including dimensions, background color, and facial expression requirements. This eliminates the common hassle of trying to get photos just right yourself or dealing with potential rejection due due to non-compliance. You can have your photos taken immediately before or after your passport application appointment, streamlining the entire process right here on Adventura.

When it comes to payment at the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office, it’s essential to distinguish between the two separate fees involved in a passport application. The passport application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by check or money order only. This is a federal requirement, and no exceptions can be made at this facility on Adventura. However, for the Post Office’s execution fee (currently $35) and any additional services like on-site passport photos ($15) or expedited mail, you have more flexibility. For these specific fees, the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office does accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), as well as debit cards, cash, or personal checks. We strongly recommend bringing both a checkbook and a credit card to cover all potential costs seamlessly during your visit.

Absolutely, the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office is equipped to take passport photos right here at our Adventura location. We understand that preparing for a passport application involves multiple steps, and offering an integrated photo service simplifies the process considerably for our community members. For a standard fee of $15.00, our trained personnel will capture two regulation-compliant passport photographs. This ensures your photos meet the precise size, background, and compositional requirements mandated by the U.S. Department of State, significantly reducing the chance of your application being delayed due to photo issues. You don’t need a separate appointment for photos; you can typically get them done right before your passport application interview, making your visit to our facility on Adventura highly efficient.

The Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office on Adventura maintains consistent hours to accommodate our residents’ busy schedules for passport services. Passport application acceptance is available Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. We also offer limited passport services on Saturdays, specifically from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM, which is particularly helpful for those who cannot visit during the week due to work or school commitments. Please note that these hours are specifically for passport acceptance and may differ slightly from general postal services. It is always recommended to schedule an appointment in advance, especially for Saturday visits, to ensure an acceptance agent is available and to minimize any potential waiting time, ensuring a smooth process for applicants from Tijeras Creek to Robinson Ranch.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 29851 ADVENTURA STE K, RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA 92688. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 9498881533.0 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 “RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for your passport appointment at the Rancho Santa Margarita Post Office is notably convenient, as the facility is centrally located within the large Adventura Plaza at 29851 Adventura. This expansive, free, surface-level parking lot boasts over 200 spaces and is shared with popular anchor tenants such as Sprouts Farmers Market, CVS Pharmacy, and a variety of smaller retail and dining establishments. You’ll find the most direct access to the Post Office by entering the plaza from Adventura, just off Antonio Parkway. The Post Office is situated on the northern side of the main parking area, making it easily visible. There are typically 60-70 readily available spaces directly in front of and immediately adjacent to the Post Office entrance, ensuring minimal walking distance, generally less than 0.1 miles or under 200 feet from a prime spot. During peak hours, particularly mid-morning on weekdays (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) and Saturday mornings, the lot can experience higher traffic due to the grocery store and coffee shop activity, but available spaces are rarely an issue, though you might park an extra row back. For appointments, arriving 10-15 minutes prior allows ample time to find a convenient spot without rush. While the lot itself is uncovered, the short walk to the entrance mitigates concerns about sun exposure during Rancho Santa Margarita’s warm summer months, where temperatures can often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Conversely, winter months rarely present hazardous conditions, though a light rain shower might warrant a closer parking choice. There are also several designated handicap parking spaces directly in front of the Post Office entrance for enhanced accessibility.

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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