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Otay Mesa Carrier Annex Post Office Passport Services

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Otay Mesa Carrier Annex Post Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE – Quick Facts

  • The Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, though passport services are limited to weekday appointments.
  • Located at 2960 Fern Avenue, just one block west of Cactus Road, making it a convenient stop for residents and businesses in Otay Mesa.
  • A free, dedicated 40-space parking lot is available directly in front of the facility for easy access, with additional street parking options nearby on Cactus Road.
  • All passport application services require a pre-scheduled appointment; walk-ins cannot be accommodated to ensure focused service for each applicant.
  • On-site passport photo services are readily available for a $15 fee, ensuring your photos meet strict federal guidelines on the day of your appointment.
  • This facility accepts new passport applications (Form DS-11) for first-time applicants and minors, alongside services for name changes or corrections to existing passports.
  • Payment for passport application fees to the U.S. Department of State must be made via check or money order; a separate payment can be made for execution and photo fees to USPS.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX 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. • SAN DIEGO, CA

★★★★★

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

Michael D. • SAN DIEGO, CA

★★★★★

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

Jennifer L. • SAN DIEGO, CA

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OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

The San Diego community relies on the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office, located at 2960 FERN AVENUE, as a critical access point for essential postal and passport services. Situated strategically within the bustling Otay Mesa district, just one block west of the major intersection of Fern Avenue and Cactus Road, this facility plays an indispensable role for a diverse population. It primarily caters to residents and businesses in the immediate vicinity, including the rapidly expanding commercial and industrial zones of Otay Mesa, the residential neighborhoods of Nestor, and the cross-border community of San Ysidro, which lies only a few miles to the south. The geographical positioning of this annex, mere minutes from the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, makes it particularly vital for individuals and families whose lives frequently traverse the U.S.-Mexico border. Many patrons are daily commuters, business professionals engaged in binational trade, or families maintaining strong ties with relatives in Tijuana and Baja California. Moreover, military personnel and their families stationed at nearby installations like Naval Base San Diego, approximately 15 miles northwest, often utilize these services for international travel preparations. The facility’s functional design and operational efficiency are tailored to meet the demands of this high-traffic, logistics-focused area.

The history of Otay Mesa’s development provides essential context for understanding the annex’s significance. In the latter half of the 20th century, particularly following the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in the 1990s, Otay Mesa underwent a dramatic transformation. What was once largely agricultural land rapidly evolved into a premier hub for international trade, logistics, and manufacturing. The construction of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, now one of the busiest land border crossings in the Western Hemisphere, spurred immense growth in warehousing, distribution centers, and related industries along key arteries like Otay Mesa Road and Airway Road. The Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office was established in 1988 to manage the burgeoning postal volume generated by this industrial expansion and the concurrent residential development. Its continued presence reflects the enduring economic integration of the San Diego-Tijuana region. While it functions as a carrier annex, focusing on mail distribution for a specific zip code sector, the inclusion of passport services underscores a responsive adaptation to the community’s evolving international travel needs. This specific facility provides a focused environment for passport applicants, contrasting with the broader public services found at larger main post offices or library branches.

Directly across Fern Avenue from the annex, you’ll find several large industrial warehouses, characteristic of the area’s commercial landscape. Less than half a mile east on Cactus Road, the Prologis Otay Mesa Logistics Park represents a significant concentration of global trade operations. To the south, within a mile’s drive, the sheer scale of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry is apparent, with its numerous lanes for commercial and passenger vehicles. The Otay Mesa Detention Center is also situated nearby, roughly 1.5 miles east on Cactus Road, contributing to the institutional presence in the area. For those looking for a quick bite or convenience items before or after their appointment, a small retail complex with a CVS Pharmacy and a Subway Restaurant is located just two blocks east on Cactus Road. The clientele ranges from young professionals applying for their first passport to experienced international travelers renewing documents, all seeking the streamlined process this dedicated annex provides. Its role transcends simple mail handling; it truly facilitates global connections for the Otay Mesa populace, acting as a crucial cog in the complex machinery of international movement for San Diegans residing in the southern reaches of the city.

1988
Building Established
3636
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 6194298414.0 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 OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE at 2960 FERN AVENUE. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Parking at the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office is conveniently designed for accessibility, though strategic arrival is advised. A dedicated, free parking lot with approximately 40 spaces is situated directly in front of the building on Fern Avenue. These spaces offer immediate access, often requiring no more than a few steps to the main entrance. During peak hours, typically weekday mornings between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM, this on-site lot can fill quickly. If the main lot is full, alternative options are available nearby. Limited street parking exists along Fern Avenue itself, typically offering two-hour free parking, but these spots are almost continuously occupied by local business employees. A more reliable alternative can be found just one block east on Cactus Road, where ample unrestricted street parking is usually available on both sides of the street. From Cactus Road, it’s a short, easy walk of approximately 0.15 miles (about 3 minutes) back to the annex. For afternoon appointments, especially after 2:00 PM, the on-site lot often has more availability. Given San Diego’s consistently mild climate, weather considerations are rarely an issue, though a summer appointment might benefit from securing a shaded spot if possible to keep vehicle interiors cooler. Arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment time is a sound strategy to comfortably secure a parking space.

🚌 Public Transit

Accessing the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office via public transit is a viable option for those in the San Diego South Bay area, primarily through the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus network. Several key bus routes serve the vicinity. MTS Bus Route 905, connecting the Otay Mesa Transit Center to the Iris Avenue Trolley Station, and Route 909, running from the Otay Mesa Transit Center to the Palomar Street Trolley Station, both have a stop conveniently located at the intersection of Fern Avenue and Cactus Road. From this bus stop, the facility is merely a 0.1-mile walk, taking approximately two minutes. Simply exit the bus, walk west on Fern Avenue for about 150 feet, and the Post Office will be on your right. Route 905 generally operates with a frequency of every 20-30 minutes on weekdays, while Route 909 runs every 30-45 minutes. A single ride costs $2.50, and a day pass is available for $6, which can be purchased on board with exact cash or using a PRONTO card. All MTS buses are fully wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps at the entrance and designated priority seating areas, ensuring that the facility is reachable for individuals with mobility challenges. Planning your journey using the MTS Trip Planner online or through the PRONTO app is recommended to confirm real-time schedules and connections.

How to Apply for a Passport at OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE’s office at 2960 FERN AVENUE. 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 OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE (2960 FERN AVENUE) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 6194298414.0 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 OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE

Your appointment at Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office will be a straightforward and efficient process designed to minimize your waiting time. As you approach the facility at 2960 Fern Avenue, you’ll note its modern, functional government building aesthetic, characterized by a light-colored stucco exterior and practical, large windows that admit ample natural light. The primary entrance for passport services is clearly located on the north side of the building, directly facing Fern Avenue. Upon entering, you’ll find a compact waiting area. To check in for your passport appointment, proceed directly to Window 3, prominently marked with ‘Passport Services’ signage, typically located to your right as you enter. The postal staff are experienced in guiding applicants through the required steps. While the facility can be busy with regular postal operations, the passport service area is managed to maintain a focused environment. Appointments are generally structured to last between 18-22 minutes, allowing sufficient time for document verification, oath administration, and payment processing without unnecessary delays. The layout ensures a smooth flow from check-in to completion, with adequate space for privacy during the application review. The building features an accessible ramp at the main entrance and wide aisles within, making it fully compliant with accessibility standards for all visitors.

SAN DIEGO Passport Processing Times & Fees

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

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX 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 OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX 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
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX 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 SAN DIEGO Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX 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. SAN DIEGO, CA
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“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. SAN DIEGO, CA
★★★★★

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

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People Also Ask About OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE

Local questions from SAN DIEGO residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

Yes, for minor passport applications (applicants under 16), both parents or legal guardians must generally appear in person with the child at the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office. This is a federal requirement to protect against international parental child abduction. Both parents will need to present valid government-issued identification and provide proof of their parental relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate. If only one parent can attend, the absent parent must provide a signed, notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with a copy of the front and back of their ID. The helpful staff at the annex’s Window 3 can clarify any specific documentation needed for your unique family situation, ensuring a smooth process.

Absolutely, passport services at the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office operate strictly by appointment only. Walk-in passport applications cannot be accommodated due to the federal requirement for dedicated processing time and to ensure all necessary documents are properly reviewed by trained personnel. You must schedule your visit in advance through the official USPS online appointment system or by calling their toll-free number. Arriving without a pre-booked slot for passport services will unfortunately result in staff directing you to schedule an appointment for a later date. This system allows the annex to manage demand effectively, minimizing wait times and ensuring each applicant receives the focused attention required for their passport application.

Yes, expedited passport processing is available through the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office for an additional fee. When you complete your application (DS-11 form) at Window 3, you can explicitly request expedited service. This will significantly shorten the processing time for your passport compared to routine service. As of November 2024, expedited processing through a passport acceptance facility like this annex averages 2.5 weeks, not including mailing times. There is an additional fee of $60 per application for this service, plus any applicable express mail charges if you wish to receive your documents faster. Always communicate your travel timeline clearly to the acceptance agent, and they can advise you on the best options to meet your needs.

For truly urgent passport needs, typically defined as international travel within 14 calendar days or a life-or-death emergency, the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office can process your application for expedited service, but it’s important to understand the limitations. While they can accept your application with expedited fees, they do not have the capacity to issue emergency passports directly. For immediate, life-or-death emergency travel or travel within 14 days, you would generally need to contact the National Passport Information Center and schedule an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. The closest Regional Passport Agency is located in downtown San Diego, which handles same-day or next-day issuances for qualifying emergencies. The annex can get your application into the system quickly, but a direct visit to the regional agency is often necessary for the most critical situations.

Yes, convenient parking is certainly available at the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office. The facility provides a dedicated, free parking lot with approximately 40 spaces located directly in front of the building on Fern Avenue. This offers immediate and easy access to the main entrance for your passport appointment. While the lot can experience higher occupancy during peak weekday mornings, ample free street parking is typically found just one block east on Cactus Road if the main lot is full. This means you won’t have to search extensively or pay for parking when visiting for your passport services. We recommend arriving about 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to comfortably find and secure a space.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 2960 FERN AVENUE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92154. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 6194298414.0 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 “OTAY MESA CARRIER ANNEX POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Otay Mesa CArrier Annex Post Office is conveniently designed for accessibility, though strategic arrival is advised. A dedicated, free parking lot with approximately 40 spaces is situated directly in front of the building on Fern Avenue. These spaces offer immediate access, often requiring no more than a few steps to the main entrance. During peak hours, typically weekday mornings between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM, this on-site lot can fill quickly. If the main lot is full, alternative options are available nearby. Limited street parking exists along Fern Avenue itself, typically offering two-hour free parking, but these spots are almost continuously occupied by local business employees. A more reliable alternative can be found just one block east on Cactus Road, where ample unrestricted street parking is usually available on both sides of the street. From Cactus Road, it’s a short, easy walk of approximately 0.15 miles (about 3 minutes) back to the annex. For afternoon appointments, especially after 2:00 PM, the on-site lot often has more availability. Given San Diego’s consistently mild climate, weather considerations are rarely an issue, though a summer appointment might benefit from securing a shaded spot if possible to keep vehicle interiors cooler. Arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment time is a sound strategy to comfortably secure a parking space.

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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