Visalia Main Post Office Passport Services

Yes, absolutely. To ensure efficient service and minimize your waiting time for passport applications at the Visalia Main Post Office, scheduling an appointment is mandatory. This facility operates strictly by appointment for all passport-related services, including new applications (DS-11) and assistance with renewals. Walk-ins will not be accepted for passport processing due to the detailed verification steps required and the necessity of a dedicated acceptance agent. You can easily book your slot online through the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler (RCAS) system. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. Arriving on time for your scheduled appointment is crucial, as late arrivals may result in rescheduling, impacting your travel plans.

After submitting your passport application at the Visalia Main Post Office, you’ll receive a receipt with a tracking number or a file number. The most reliable way to monitor your application’s status is directly through the U.S. Department of State’s online Passport Application Status System. You will need to enter your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to access your information. Typically, it takes about 7-10 business days after your appointment for your application to appear in the online system as ‘In Process.’ The Visalia Main Post Office itself does not have access to real-time updates beyond the initial submission, so direct inquiries to the Department of State website or their national passport information center are the best course of action for tracking progress.

For minor passport applications (applicants under 16 years of age) at the Visalia Main Post Office, it is highly recommended and often required that both parents or legal guardians appear in person with the child. This is a critical step to establish parental consent. Both parents must present valid government-issued identification and provide proof of parental relationship (e.g., the child’s birth certificate). If one parent is unable to attend, they must submit a notarized Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent, along with a copy of their identification. Without both parents present or the proper consent form, the application cannot be processed. This stringent requirement ensures the child’s safety and prevents international parental abduction, reflecting federal guidelines for minor passport issuance.

Yes, the Visalia Main Post Office provides convenient on-site passport photo services. This is a significant advantage for applicants, as it ensures your photos meet the stringent federal requirements for size, background, and facial expression without the hassle of finding an external vendor. The passport acceptance agents are trained to take compliant 2×2 inch photos right at the facility. There is a separate fee of $15 for this service, which can be paid directly at the time of your appointment. Opting for on-site photos can save you time and eliminate the risk of photo rejection, which can delay your passport application. Many Visalia residents appreciate this integrated service, as it streamlines their entire application process in one visit.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all passport applications, including those for minors, at the Visalia Main Post Office. A minor cannot simply walk in; a scheduled appointment ensures that a passport acceptance agent is available to process the detailed requirements for child passports. During this appointment, the minor applicant must be present, and typically both parents (or legal guardians) must also appear with valid photo identification and documentation proving their parental relationship to the child, such as the child’s original birth certificate. Booking an appointment well in advance through the online USPS RCAS system is critical to guarantee a slot for your family, especially considering the additional documentation and presence requirements for children’s passports.

The passport office is located at 2345 W BEECH AVE, VISALIA, CA 93277. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 5597322237.0 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 “VISALIA MAIN POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Visalia Main Post Office is exceptionally convenient, primarily featuring a large, free 55-space asphalt parking lot directly accessible from W Beech Avenue. This lot is situated immediately in front of the building, providing minimal walking distance to the main entrance on the north side. For those with appointments, it is highly recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a prime spot, especially if your appointment falls between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, which are generally the busiest times for both postal and passport services. Even during peak periods, the ample size of this lot means a space is almost always available directly on-site, eliminating the need to search for off-site parking. Should the main lot be unexpectedly full, which is rare, limited overflow parking can sometimes be found along the north side of W Beech Avenue, though these are not guaranteed spaces and may require a short walk of about 0.1 miles. There are no paid parking garages in the immediate vicinity, nor is there metered street parking, making this facility particularly user-friendly for vehicle-dependent residents. During Visalia’s notoriously hot summers, where temperatures often exceed 100°F, arriving early also allows you to find a shaded spot if available, making your brief walk into the office much more comfortable. Conversely, during the occasional winter rain, having a close parking space is a distinct advantage, minimizing exposure to the elements before your important passport appointment.

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.