La Junta Post Office Passport Services

When you apply for a passport at the La Junta Post Office, you have two primary processing options: routine and expedited. Routine processing involves the standard timeframe for the U.S. Department of State to issue your passport, which, as of November 2024, averages around 7 to 9 weeks. This is the more cost-effective choice and is suitable if your international travel plans are many months away. Expedited processing, on the other hand, significantly reduces the waiting period to approximately 2 to 3 weeks, for an additional fee of $60 per application. Choosing this option at the La Junta facility means your application will be flagged for faster handling at the passport agency. While the La Junta Post Office accepts both routine and expedited applications, the actual processing is handled centrally by the Department of State, and these timeframes begin once your application reaches their designated facility, not from the moment you submit it at 324 Colorado Avenue. Always factor in shipping times when estimating your total wait, and consider expedited shipping for both sending and receiving your documents if time is critical.

Yes, parking is readily available and typically quite convenient when visiting the La Junta Post Office for your passport appointment. You’ll find a generous number of free street parking spaces located directly along Colorado Avenue, right in front of the building at 324 Colorado Avenue. These spots generally have a two-hour time limit during business hours, which is more than enough for a typical passport application visit. If the immediate spots on Colorado Avenue are occupied, excellent alternative free parking is usually available on the adjacent cross streets, North 2nd Street and North 3rd Street, both within a very short walking distance. Given La Junta’s smaller size, finding suitable parking close to the Post Office is rarely a challenge, even during busier periods. There are no large paid parking lots or multi-story garages to contend with, simplifying your arrival experience considerably. For the quickest access, aiming for a spot on Colorado Avenue is your best bet, but rest assured, nearby options are plentiful and accessible.

When it comes to paying for your passport services at the La Junta Post Office, it’s important to understand the fee structure. The passport application fee, which is payable directly to the U.S. Department of State, absolutely cannot be paid by credit card. This specific fee, typically $130 for a passport book, must be paid by check or money order. Ensure your check is made out correctly to “U.S. Department of State.” However, the separate $35 execution fee, collected by the La Junta Post Office itself for processing your application, *can* be paid using a major credit card, debit card, or postal money order. Many applicants find it easiest to bring two separate forms of payment: a personal check or money order for the Department of State fee, and a credit card or cash for the Post Office execution fee. This preparation avoids any delays or inconvenience during your appointment at 324 Colorado Avenue.

While the La Junta Post Office at 324 Colorado Avenue does accept walk-in passport applications, scheduling an appointment in advance is very strongly recommended to ensure you receive prompt service. Walk-ins are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis, and processing depends entirely on the availability of a passport acceptance agent. During peak times, such as mid-mornings (10 AM to 11:30 AM) or early afternoons (1:30 PM to 3 PM), or after holidays, wait times for walk-ins can extend significantly. There’s no guarantee that an agent will be immediately free, and you may be asked to wait or even return at a later time if the schedule is full. To avoid potential frustration and ensure your visit is as efficient as possible, it is always best practice to call the La Junta Post Office directly during business hours or use the USPS online appointment scheduler to secure a specific time slot for your passport application.

For your passport application at the La Junta Post Office, while not strictly mandatory in all circumstances, having an appointment is highly advisable. Scheduling a specific time ensures that a trained passport acceptance agent will be available to assist you without a lengthy wait. This is particularly crucial given that the La Junta facility, like many smaller post offices, may have a limited number of agents or specific hours dedicated to passport services. Without an appointment, you risk arriving during a busy period, encountering a full schedule, or even finding that the acceptance agent is unavailable. An appointment guarantees your dedicated slot, making the process smoother and more predictable. You can typically schedule an appointment online via the USPS website or by calling the La Junta Post Office at 324 Colorado Avenue directly during their operating hours to secure your preferred time.

The passport office is located at 324 COLORADO AVE., LA JUNTA, CO 81050. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 7193849841.0 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 “LA JUNTA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the La Junta Post Office is generally straightforward and convenient, primarily utilizing street-side options directly surrounding the facility. Ample free street parking is available along Colorado Avenue, immediately in front of the Post Office, typically with a two-hour limit during business hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. These spaces are usually readily available, though they can fill up quickly during peak mail rush times around 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Additionally, free street parking can be found on North 2nd Street and North 3rd Street, the cross streets immediately adjacent to the Post Office, offering excellent alternatives if Colorado Avenue spots are occupied. There isn’t a dedicated multi-story parking garage or large paid lot specifically for the Post Office, reflecting La Junta’s smaller urban footprint. For your passport appointment, which typically takes under 30 minutes, securing a spot on Colorado Avenue is often the most direct strategy. During summer months, especially July and August, temperatures can easily exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, so finding a closer spot minimizes exposure to the intense Colorado sun. Conversely, in winter, from December through February, snow and ice can make street parking more challenging, but the city diligently clears primary routes like Colorado Avenue. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to comfortably find parking and reach the entrance, especially if visiting during colder, potentially icy conditions.

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.