Chicago Lawn Retail Station Passport Services

Yes, for a minor’s passport application at Chicago Lawn Retail Station, federal regulations generally require both parents or legal guardians to be present with the child. Each parent must bring a valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of their parental relationship to the child, typically the child’s original birth certificate. If one parent is unable to attend, specific consent forms (DS-3053, Statement of Consent) are required, properly notarized and accompanied by a copy of the non-appearing parent’s ID. The Passport Acceptance Agents at 6037 S. Kedzie Street are highly experienced in navigating these requirements and can provide precise guidance to ensure all necessary documentation is in order before the application is submitted.

The distinction between routine and expedited processing lies primarily in the speed at which your passport application is handled after being submitted at Chicago Lawn Retail Station. Routine processing is the standard service, suitable for applicants with no immediate travel plans, and involves a longer processing window. Expedited processing, on the other hand, is for urgent travel needs and comes with an additional government fee to significantly shorten the turnaround time. While the Chicago Lawn facility diligently processes all applications, the actual printing and mailing of passports are handled by the National Passport Information Center. Therefore, the choice of routine or expedited service impacts the ultimate delivery timeline from the Department of State, not the local acceptance process at 6037 S. Kedzie.

The Chicago Lawn Retail Station generally operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays (Monday through Friday) and from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays. However, it’s crucial to understand that specific hours for passport acceptance services might differ slightly within these general facility hours due to agent availability or scheduled appointments. While the counter may be open, passport appointments could conclude an hour before the overall closing time. For the most accurate and up-to-date passport service hours and to avoid any inconvenience, it’s always best to either check the official USPS appointment scheduler online for 6037 S. Kedzie Street or call the station directly before planning your visit. Arriving early on a weekday morning is often a good strategy for potentially shorter waits, even with an appointment.

The ability to renew your passport at Chicago Lawn Retail Station depends entirely on your eligibility to renew by mail. If your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older, is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you still have it in your possession, you are generally eligible to renew by mail using Form DS-82. In such cases, you would simply mail your application directly to the Department of State. However, if you do not meet all of these criteria—for instance, if your passport is significantly damaged, was issued before you were 16, or has been expired for more than 15 years—you must apply in person using Form DS-11, which is treated as a first-time application. Chicago Lawn Retail Station at 6037 S. Kedzie is fully equipped to accept these in-person DS-11 applications and guide you through the process.

When applying for a passport at the Chicago Lawn Retail Station, you’ll generally need to make two separate payments. The execution fee, which is the fee paid to the U.S. Postal Service for accepting your application, can typically be paid using a major credit or debit card, a personal check, or a money order. Cash is usually not accepted for this fee. The second payment is the application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State. For this fee, only checks (personal, certified, cashier’s) or money orders are accepted; credit cards and cash are not. It’s important to have both payment methods prepared before your appointment at 6037 S. Kedzie Street, as separate payments ensure a smooth and compliant submission process.

The passport office is located at 6037 S. KEDZIE STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60629. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 7739251252.0 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 “CHICAGO LAWN RETAIL STATION” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Convenient parking options are readily available when visiting the Chicago Lawn Retail Station for your passport appointment. The most straightforward choice is the free, dedicated parking lot situated directly behind the building. This paved lot, which typically offers between 25 to 30 spaces, is accessible either via the alley that runs parallel to Kedzie Avenue or from an entrance on West 61st Street, positioned just a block north of the facility. For those who prefer street parking, S. Kedzie Street offers metered spots directly in front of the post office. These meters usually operate Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with rates around $1.50 per hour; be sure to bring quarters or use a payment app if available. Alternatively, free, unmetered street parking can often be found on the residential side streets west of Kedzie, such as West 61st Street or West 62nd Street, usually within a block or two’s walking distance. However, always pay close attention to posted signs, as some blocks in Chicago Lawn may have permit-only parking restrictions. To ensure a stress-free experience, especially during peak passport application times (late morning or early afternoon), it is advisable to arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. This allows ample time to secure a spot, particularly in the rear lot. During winter months, heavy snowfall can reduce available street parking and make the rear lot slick, so exercise caution. In summer, the exposed rear lot can get quite hot, so consider parking on a shaded side street if available.

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.