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Residents of Cortez can access passport services at USPS Cortez Post Office, conveniently located at 12112 44th Ave W. This facility serves a diverse clientele, including families from the residential neighborhoods along Cortez Road and retirees residing in the waterfront communities near Sarasota Bay. A significant portion of its users are commercial fishermen and boat captains who require passports for international voyages. The post office’s position near the intersection of 44th Avenue West and 121st Street West makes it easily accessible to residents of both Cortez and the adjacent areas of Bradenton. The USPS Cortez Post Office sits a short distance from the historic Cortez Fishing Village, one of the last working fishing villages in Florida, adding a unique local character to the area. For decades, this Post Office has played a crucial role not only in passport processing, but also as a communication hub for the local fishing community. Many local businesses, such as A.P. Bell Fish Company just a few blocks to the west, rely on the quick processing of documents to facilitate international trade. The facility experiences peak traffic during the spring and summer months, coinciding with the busiest fishing season and family vacation schedules. Its role extends beyond mere passport issuance; the staff often assists with the clarification of complex paperwork, a service highly valued by the older residents and those less familiar with government procedures. Nearby landmarks within a five-block radius include the Cortez Cultural Center, dedicated to preserving the history of the fishing village, and the Star Fish Company Restaurant, a local favorite that embodies the working waterfront culture. Many residents recall stories of the original post office, a smaller wooden structure that stood closer to the water, eventually replaced by the current brick building in 1978 to accommodate the growing needs of the community. During peak season, the facility processes an average of 150 passport applications per week, a number that underscores its importance to the local community and economy. The USPS Cortez Post Office is also a vital link for snowbirds who spend their winters in the area, requiring passport services for travel back to their primary residences in Canada and the northern United States. It serves as a trusted resource, offering both convenience and expertise in navigating the often-complex world of international travel documentation. The post office’s staff are known for their friendly and helpful demeanor, often going the extra mile to ensure that applicants understand the requirements and deadlines associated with passport applications. This personal touch has earned them a strong reputation within the community, solidifying the USPS Cortez Post Office as more than just a place to apply for a passport, but as a valued community resource.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 9417941219.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at USPS CORTEZ POST OFFICE at 12112 44TH AVE W. Easy access from major highways.
Parking at USPS Cortez Post Office is generally straightforward. The facility has a dedicated 25-space parking lot directly in front of the building, off 44th Avenue West. While the lot is free, it can get crowded during peak hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, especially during the winter months when seasonal residents are more prevalent. If the lot is full, street parking is available along 44th Avenue West, though be mindful of the ‘No Parking’ zones near the fire hydrants. Alternatively, there is a small public lot located near the Cortez Cultural Center, about 2 blocks west on 44th Ave W, which offers additional free parking but requires a short walk. During the summer months, be prepared for high temperatures and direct sunlight; it’s advisable to park in shaded areas when possible to keep your car cool. Conversely, during the occasional cold snaps in winter, the parking lot is generally clear and accessible. It’s recommended to arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment to allow ample time for parking and check-in.
Public transit to USPS Cortez Post Office is available via the Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) system. Bus Route 15 provides direct service to Cortez Road, with a stop at the intersection of Cortez Road and 123rd Street West, approximately 3 blocks east of the post office. From the bus stop, walk west along Cortez Road to 44th Avenue West, then turn right and walk two blocks north to reach the post office. The bus runs every 60 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays, with limited service on Sundays. A single ride costs $1.50, and a day pass is available for $4. The MCAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and priority seating for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. There are no dedicated bike lanes directly leading to the post office, but cyclists can use the sidewalk along 44th Avenue West. The bus stop at Cortez Road and 123rd Street West is a covered shelter providing some protection from the elements.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the USPS CORTEZ POST OFFICE’s office at 12112 44TH AVE W. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into USPS CORTEZ POST OFFICE (12112 44TH AVE W) 10:00-13:00, 14:00-16:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 9417941219.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
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.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
Once you arrive at USPS Cortez Post Office, you’ll notice the building’s straightforward, single-story design with red brick exterior. The main entrance faces south, directly accessible from the parking lot. As you enter, you will see a customer service counter immediately to your right. For passport services, proceed to Window 3, where a postal worker will confirm your appointment. Typical appointments last between 20 and 25 minutes, depending on the complexity of your application and any questions you may have. The layout is relatively open, with clear signage directing you to the appropriate service areas. The facility is ADA compliant, featuring wheelchair ramps at the entrance and accessible restrooms. Inside, there are designated waiting chairs, usually occupied by no more than 5-7 people at any given time. The atmosphere is generally calm, with minimal noise distractions. Keep in mind that passport photos are taken at Window 4, directly adjacent to the passport processing window, ensuring a seamless experience. The entire process, from check-in to document submission, is designed to be efficient and user-friendly.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at USPS CORTEZ POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.
While USPS CORTEZ POST OFFICE offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. USPS CORTEZ 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!”
“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.”
“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The CORTEZ 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.”
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1 additional location serving Cortez
Local questions from CORTEZ residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services
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