Ashkum Post Office Passport Services

To apply for a new passport at the Ashkum Post Office, you will need to present proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. Additionally, you must provide a valid government-issued identification, typically your driver’s license from Illinois or another state. A photocopy of both sides of your citizenship document and your identification is also required; these photocopies should be on plain white paper, not reduced in size. The staff at 103 E Main Street can assist with minor questions, but ensuring all originals and copies are prepared beforehand will significantly expedite your appointment. For minor applicants, additional documentation regarding parental consent and relationship proof will be necessary.

Your passport photos must adhere strictly to U.S. Department of State specifications. This means two identical, color photographs, each exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size. They must be recent, taken within the last six months, and feature a clear, white or off-white background. No shadows should be visible on your face or behind your head. Importantly, these photos must be free of glare, eyeglasses, or hats (unless for religious purposes and accompanied by a signed statement). While the Ashkum Post Office does not offer on-site photo services, the nearby Ashkum General Store might offer basic photo printing, or you could visit a pharmacy in a larger town like Clifton before your visit to ensure you have compliant photos ready.

While the Ashkum Post Office at 103 E Main Street primarily operates by appointment for passport services to ensure efficient processing and minimal wait times, walk-ins are occasionally accommodated if the schedule permits. However, relying on a walk-in is not recommended, especially given the limited staffing typical of smaller rural post offices. To guarantee service and avoid a potentially wasted trip, it is strongly advised to schedule your passport appointment in advance through the USPS online appointment scheduler. This ensures a dedicated time slot for your application. If you arrive without an appointment, you may be asked to wait, or, if the day’s schedule is full, to return at a later time with a confirmed booking. Planning ahead is key here.

Passport processing times fluctuate based on demand and the type of service requested. As of November 2024, routine processing for a passport application submitted at the Ashkum Post Office averages between 7 to 10 weeks. If you require your passport sooner, expedited service is available for an additional fee, which generally reduces the processing time to 3 to 5 weeks. These estimates do not include mail delivery times, which can add a few extra days on either end. The staff at Ashkum Post Office will ensure your application is correctly submitted, but the actual processing is handled by the National Passport Information Center. Always check the official Department of State website for the most current processing estimates before planning international travel.

Yes, expedited service is definitely an option for those who need their passport more quickly. When you apply at the Ashkum Post Office, you can specifically request expedited processing for an additional fee of $60 per application, payable directly to the Department of State. This fee significantly reduces the processing time from the standard 7-10 weeks down to an estimated 3-5 weeks, as of November 2024. Furthermore, you can also opt for expedited shipping services for both your application to the processing center and the return delivery of your completed passport, incurring separate fees. Be sure to clearly mark your application for expedited service and ensure all necessary fees are paid at the time of your appointment at 103 E Main Street to prevent any delays.

The passport office is located at 103 E MAIN STREET, ASHKUM, IL 60911. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8156982412.0 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 “ASHKUM POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

For those driving to the Ashkum Post Office for their passport appointment, parking is notably convenient and entirely free. The most direct option is the small, dedicated asphalt parking lot located immediately to the east of the building, accessible directly from East Main Street. This lot typically offers 8-10 easily identifiable spaces. In the rare event this lot is full, which is infrequent, ample free street parking is available along East Main Street, directly in front of and across from the Post Office. These spaces are generally unrestricted for duration, making them ideal for appointments. Furthermore, additional street parking can be found on South Second Street, just a short half-block walk west of the facility. During peak mail hours, typically between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the lot might see more activity, but spaces almost always open up quickly. For optimal convenience, arriving 5-10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment allows plenty of time to secure a spot. During summer months, the asphalt lot can get warm, so consider parking under any available shade if street parking is chosen. In winter, while the lot is regularly plowed, street parking can sometimes be impacted by heavy snowfall, though Ashkum’s municipal services are generally prompt in clearing the main thoroughfares.

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.