Carmel Mountain Postal Store Passport Services

Generally, adult passport renewals (Form DS-82) are processed by mail, and the Carmel Mountain Postal Store functions as an acceptance facility for *new* applications and those requiring in-person verification. If your previous passport was issued less than 15 years ago, you were 16 or older at the time, and it’s undamaged, you will typically renew by mailing your application directly to the Department of State. However, you absolutely can bring your completed DS-82 renewal form and supporting documents to this postal store for mailing. The staff can help ensure your package is correctly addressed and securely sent via a traceable method, such as Priority Mail Express, which provides proof of delivery. This is particularly useful for residents of Carmel Mountain Ranch or Sabre Springs who appreciate the peace of mind of secure mailing.

When applying for a passport at the Carmel Mountain Postal Store, you’ll need to prepare two separate payments. The application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by check or money order. Personal checks, certified checks, cashier’s checks, or a US Postal Money Order are all accepted, made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” For the separate execution fee, which is retained by the USPS for their service, you have more flexibility. The Carmel Mountain Postal Store accepts credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), debit cards, cash, or money orders. It’s crucial to have both payments ready in the correct formats when you arrive for your appointment at 11251 Rancho Carmel Drive.

Yes, ample parking is readily available for all passport applicants visiting the Carmel Mountain Postal Store. There’s a dedicated, free customer parking lot located directly in front of the building, easily accessible from Rancho Carmel Drive. This lot typically offers around 45 spaces, so finding a spot usually isn’t an issue, even during busier periods. For those who visit during peak times, such as Saturday mornings or weekday lunch hours, overflow parking is generously provided throughout the larger Carmel Mountain Plaza shopping center, just a very short walk from the entrance. We always recommend arriving about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled passport appointment to allow yourself a stress-free experience securing a convenient parking spot and getting settled inside.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all minor passport applications at the Carmel Mountain Postal Store, as these applications necessitate specific in-person verification steps. For any applicant under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians must be present with the minor, along with their valid government-issued identification and proof of parental relationship (such as a birth certificate or court order). If one parent cannot be present, a notarized Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent, is required, along with a copy of the absent parent’s ID. The staff at 11251 Rancho Carmel Drive are highly experienced in guiding families through this detailed process, ensuring all federal requirements are met for the child’s passport.

Yes, scheduling an appointment is strongly recommended and practically essential for all passport services at the Carmel Mountain Postal Store. While some post offices might occasionally accommodate walk-ins for minor services, passport application acceptance specifically requires dedicated time for thorough document review, identity verification, and oath administration. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, we advise all residents of San Diego and surrounding areas like Rancho Peñasquitos to utilize the online USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or call the facility directly. This guarantees that a Passport Acceptance Agent will be available to assist you at your chosen time, minimizing any potential wait and ensuring your application is handled correctly.

The passport office is located at 11251 RANCHO CARMEL DR., SAN DIEGO, CA 92128. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8586740208.0 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 “CARMEL MOUNTAIN POSTAL STORE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Carmel Mountain Postal Store is designed for convenience, with several options directly surrounding the facility. The most straightforward choice is the dedicated free customer parking lot immediately in front of the building, accessible directly from Rancho Carmel Drive. This paved lot provides approximately 45 marked spaces, including several designated for accessible parking, making it a reliable option for most visitors. Given the typical appointment duration for passport services, averaging under 25 minutes, finding a spot is generally manageable, especially during mid-morning or early afternoon hours. Should the primary lot be unexpectedly full during peak times, such as Saturday mornings or weekday lunch hours, ample overflow parking is available within the larger Carmel Mountain Plaza shopping center. These additional spaces are just a short walk, roughly 0.1 miles or less than two blocks, and can be accessed via entrances on both Rancho Carmel Drive and Carmel Mountain Road. We advise parking in the rows closest to the postal store for the shortest walk. For those visiting during San Diego’s summer months, particularly July through September when temperatures can reach into the high 80s, consider parking closer or using a sunshade to protect your vehicle’s interior. Winter parking is generally very easy, with temperate weather posing no significant issues like ice or snow. The best strategy is to arrive at least 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment, allowing sufficient time to secure parking and enter the facility without rush.

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.