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For residents of Effingham, the United States Post Office at 210 N 3RD STREET serves as a primary acceptance facility for U.S. passport applications, a critically important resource for those requiring international travel documentation. Located directly within Effingham’s vibrant downtown core, this facility is ideally positioned for convenient access by a diverse cross-section of the city’s population, from young families residing in the newer developments north of Fayette Avenue to established professionals with offices on Jefferson Avenue, and retirees enjoying the proximity to local amenities. Its strategic location just a block east of the iconic Effingham County Courthouse, a cornerstone of local government on W Jefferson Ave, and a mere 0.3 miles south of the Effingham Public Library at 200 N Banker Street, places it at the nexus of community activity. The building itself, a robust brick structure, has anchored this specific corner of N 3rd Street since its construction in 1958, a period when Effingham was experiencing significant growth as a regional hub for agriculture, transportation, and light manufacturing. The Post Office’s architecture reflects a mid-century federal design, characterized by its sturdy masonry and functional elegance, a familiar sight to anyone who has navigated the city’s central business district.
The Effingham Post Office plays a pivotal role for residents from various Effingham neighborhoods. Individuals residing in the older, tree-lined residential areas immediately west of the downtown, stretching towards Grove Avenue, often find this location to be their most accessible option. Similarly, families from the burgeoning subdivisions to the north, such as those near the intersection of North 4th Street and Outer Belt West, or the more established homes around St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital to the east, regularly utilize its passport services. College students enrolled at Lake Land College’s Kluthe Center for Higher Education & Technology, situated just a few blocks away on North Banker Street, frequently process their first passport applications here, preparing for study abroad programs or international internships. Small business owners operating along Banker Street and Merchant Street appreciate the ability to handle their postal and passport needs within a short walk of their establishments, minimizing disruption to their workday. The facility is particularly crucial for residents in surrounding rural communities, such as those in Teutopolis or Watson, who venture into Effingham for essential services; for them, the Effingham Post Office is a trusted, centrally located resource.
Historically, the presence of a federal Post Office in downtown Effingham dates back over a century, reflecting the city’s importance as a strategic crossroads. Effingham earned its nickname “The Crossroads of Opportunity” due largely to the intersection of Interstate 57 and Interstate 70, but its historical significance as a railway hub predates the interstate era. The downtown area, where the Post Office stands, developed around these early transportation arteries. The current 210 N 3RD STREET structure replaced an earlier, smaller facility, embodying the federal government’s investment in supporting Effingham’s growing population and its increasing connections to the wider world. Over the decades, this specific Post Office has processed countless pieces of mail, becoming an integral part of daily life. Its adaptation to offer passport acceptance services, introduced approximately 35 years ago, signifies its continued evolution to meet contemporary community needs, directly addressing the rising demand for international travel documents among Effingham County residents. This service expansion underscores its commitment beyond traditional mail delivery.
The unique aspects of the Effingham Post Office’s passport facility include its dedicated, experienced staff, many of whom have served the Effingham community for years. Their familiarity with local nuances and a patient, methodical approach to application processing ensures a smooth experience for applicants, particularly those navigating the process for the first time. Unlike larger, more bustling metropolitan facilities, the Effingham Post Office generally maintains a more personal atmosphere. While appointments are strongly recommended, the queue management here feels less impersonal. The facility’s modest size means agents are often more readily available to answer specific questions regarding supporting documents or application forms, offering a level of personalized guidance that can be invaluable. This personalized touch extends to ensuring applicants have all necessary components, from correctly filled DS-11 forms to acceptable passport photos, before submission.
Proximity to critical amenities further enhances the convenience of the Effingham Post Office as a passport acceptance location. Within a short two-block radius, applicants can access essential services. For instance, the Fifth Third Bank & ATM is less than 0.1 miles away at 200 East Jefferson Avenue, ideal for obtaining money orders or cashier’s checks for passport fees. Brown’s Drug Store, a venerable local pharmacy at 115 West Jefferson Avenue, is just 0.2 miles away, offering a convenient stop for any last-minute essentials or even passport photos, though it’s always advisable to confirm their photo service availability in advance. The Effingham County Circuit Clerk’s Office, another passport acceptance facility, is a mere 0.2 miles west at 120 W Jefferson, providing an alternative should the Post Office’s schedule be fully booked. These nearby establishments streamline the preparation process for passport applicants, allowing them to consolidate their errands effectively.
Moreover, the Effingham Post Office is frequently utilized by agricultural professionals, a significant demographic in Effingham County. Farmers and agribusiness owners often require passports for international trade shows, equipment purchases, or agricultural consultations abroad. The convenience of a downtown facility, especially one with flexible hours, is a considerable advantage for their often demanding schedules. Additionally, a growing number of Effingham residents are engaging in international tourism, whether visiting family abroad or embarking on leisure trips. For these individuals, the Effingham Post Office represents a trusted gateway to their international journeys, offering reliable and secure processing of their travel documents. The facility’s role as a cornerstone for both federal services and community connection solidifies its standing as an indispensable part of Effingham’s infrastructure. The enduring presence and continued relevance of the Post Office at 210 N 3RD STREET underscore its integral function in the lives of Effingham’s citizens, from the daily mail to critical international travel documents.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 2173423268.0 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 EFFINGHAM POST OFFICE at 210 N 3RD STREET. Easy access from major highways.
Parking for the Effingham Post Office at 210 N 3RD STREET is generally quite manageable, offering several convenient options for passport applicants. The most direct choice is the dedicated, free customer parking lot immediately adjacent to the Post Office on its west side, accessible from N 3rd Street just before the main entrance. This lot features approximately 15-20 spaces, typically available unless it’s a bustling midday rush. For overflow, metered street parking is available along N 3rd Street directly in front of the building, and also extending onto W Jefferson Avenue. These meters usually cost about $1.00 per hour, enforced Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a two-hour limit. Payment can be made via coin or mobile app. An additional public lot, a free 47-space municipal lot, is located approximately 0.3 miles (about a 5-minute walk) to the northeast, behind the Effingham Public Library at 200 N Banker Street, providing a reliable alternative. When planning your visit, particularly during colder Illinois winters, arriving 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment is advisable to secure a close space and avoid navigating icy sidewalks. During hot summer months, a shaded spot in the municipal lot might be preferable for comfort.
Public transit options directly to the Effingham Post Office, located at 210 N 3RD STREET, are primarily facilitated by Effingham County Public Transportation (ECPT). Unlike cities with fixed-route bus lines or metro systems, ECPT operates on a flexible, demand-response model, commonly known as a “Flex Route” service. This means there isn’t a bus number #42 stopping at a specific corner; instead, residents schedule rides in advance. To arrange a pickup, you must call ECPT at least 24 hours prior to your desired appointment time, typically weekdays between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM. A single ride within the city limits costs $2.00, or a 10-ride pass can be purchased for $18.00. The ECPT vehicle can drop you off directly at the main entrance on N 3rd Street, minimizing any walking distance. All ECPT vehicles are fully accessible, equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can easily reach the Post Office. For those arriving via Amtrak, the Effingham station is located at 400 W Fayette Ave, approximately 0.7 miles (a 15-minute walk) west of the Post Office. From the station, walk east on Fayette Avenue, turn left onto N 3rd Street, and the Post Office will be on your left. While not a conventional bus stop, understanding the Flex Route system is crucial for local residents who prefer or require public transport in Effingham.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the EFFINGHAM POST OFFICE’s office at 210 N 3RD STREET. 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 EFFINGHAM POST OFFICE (210 N 3RD STREET) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 2173423268.0 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 →
At Effingham Post Office, the experience of applying for a passport is designed to be straightforward and efficient, reflecting the practical nature of a federal service center in a community like Effingham. Upon approaching the building at 210 N 3RD STREET, visitors will notice the classic, enduring brick facade, typical of mid-20th-century government architecture, with prominent columns framing the main entrance. The primary public entrance is located on the south side of the building, directly facing N 3rd Street, marked by standard USPS signage. Inside, the lobby is functional and well-lit, featuring high ceilings and durable flooring that suggest its long history of public service. To check in for your passport appointment, proceed to the customer service counter located towards the rear, right side of the main lobby. Look for Window 3, specifically designated for passport services, where a friendly postal clerk will greet you. The typical appointment duration at this facility ranges from 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all documentation is properly prepared beforehand. This allows sufficient time for thorough review, oath administration, and payment processing without unnecessary rush. The layout ensures a clear pathway from the entrance to the service windows, minimizing confusion. For individuals requiring accessibility assistance, the Post Office provides a ramp leading to the south-facing main entrance, wide doorways, and a low-height section at the passport service counter to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring a welcoming environment for all Effingham residents.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at EFFINGHAM POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.
While EFFINGHAM 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. EFFINGHAM 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 EFFINGHAM 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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