Excelsior Station Passport Services

Yes, Excelsior Station does offer on-site passport photo services, which can significantly streamline your application process. While it’s always an option to get your photos taken beforehand at a local pharmacy like the Safeway on Mission Street, having them done right at the post office ensures they meet the specific federal requirements. The cost for two passport-compliant photos at Excelsior Station is typically around $15. This service is available during all passport acceptance hours, but it’s advisable to mention you need photos when you arrive for your appointment so the agent can allocate the necessary time. It saves a separate trip and eliminates the guesswork regarding photo specifications.

Parking around Excelsior Station is primarily street parking. You’ll find a limited number of metered spaces directly on Onondaga Avenue, immediately in front of the post office, which are your most convenient option. These meters usually run at $1.50 per hour with a two-hour limit. If these spots are occupied, particularly during busy morning hours, you might find additional metered parking along Mission Street, one block east. Unmetered residential parking is sometimes available a few blocks west of the post office, but always scrutinize street signs for permit restrictions or time limits. Considering a weekday appointment between 1 PM and 3 PM often yields better parking availability.

After your passport application has been accepted at Excelsior Station, the processing begins once it reaches the National Passport Information Center. You can track its status online via the U.S. Department of State’s official passport website using your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. The online system typically updates within 7-10 business days after your application has been mailed. Additionally, you can call the National Passport Information Center directly at 1-877-487-2778. Keep the receipt provided by the Excelsior Station agent as it contains important details for tracking.

If you require your passport urgently, you have a few options, though Excelsior Station itself does not process emergency passports directly. You can apply for expedited service through the facility, which significantly reduces processing times for an additional fee of $60. For very urgent travel (within 14 days), your best course of action is to make an appointment at a Passport Agency or Center. The closest Passport Agency to San Francisco is located in the Federal Building at 450 Golden Gate Avenue downtown. You must have proof of urgent travel to secure an appointment there. The Excelsior staff can guide you on the initial expedited application, but for true emergencies, the downtown agency is the designated resource.

Yes, you absolutely can request expedited passport service when submitting your application at Excelsior Station. This option is available for an additional government fee of $60 per application. Choosing expedited service means your application will be processed at a faster pace than the routine processing timeline. As of November 2024, routine processing averages 7.2 weeks, while expedited processing averages 2.5 weeks. It’s crucial to clearly indicate your request for expedited service on your application form and ensure the additional fee is included with your payment. The Excelsior Station agents will confirm this during your appointment, ensuring all necessary steps are taken for quicker processing.

The passport office is located at 15 ONONDAGA AVENUE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 4153341057.0 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 “EXCELSIOR STATION” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Finding parking around Excelsior Station Post Office requires a bit of local knowledge, but it’s generally manageable, especially compared to more congested areas of San Francisco. The most direct option is metered street parking along Onondaga Avenue directly in front of the post office. There are typically 8-12 metered spaces here, operating Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with a cost of $1.50 per hour and a two-hour limit. These spots fill up quickly during peak morning hours (9 AM-11 AM) and around lunchtime. For appointments scheduled mid-afternoon, availability usually improves. Alternatively, several blocks west on Onondaga Avenue, past the intersection with Mission Street, some unmetered residential parking can be found, though it may require a walk of 0.2 to 0.4 miles (2-4 blocks). Always check signage carefully for residential permit restrictions. Mission Street itself, a major commercial thoroughfare, offers additional metered parking options within a 0.2-mile radius, often costing $2.00-$2.50 per hour, but these spots have higher turnover and are more competitive. Geneva Avenue, running parallel to Onondaga a block south, also has limited street parking. A useful strategy is to aim for an appointment earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the mid-day rush. During San Francisco’s notorious rainy season, typically November through March, allow extra time to find covered parking or bring an umbrella for the short walk, as inclement weather can make street parking more challenging.

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.