Gardner Post Office Passport Services

While the Gardner Post Office does its best to accommodate all residents, especially in a smaller community, passport services operate strictly by appointment to ensure proper staffing and dedicated time for each applicant. Due to the detailed nature of passport applications, which require document verification, oath administration, and payment processing, unscheduled walk-ins for passport services cannot be guaranteed. It is highly recommended to schedule your appointment in advance through the USPS online appointment scheduler. Arriving without a confirmed slot means you might face a significant wait, or more likely, be asked to schedule an appointment for a later date or time when an authorized agent is available.

Yes, an appointment is definitely required for all passport application services at the Gardner Post Office. This policy ensures that a trained passport acceptance agent is available to assist you without delay, and that all necessary forms and equipment are ready. Scheduling an appointment not only saves you considerable waiting time but also guarantees that your application process will be handled efficiently and correctly. You can easily book your slot online via the official USPS website by searching for the Gardner Post Office (106 E Jefferson Street) and selecting an available time that works best for your schedule. This proactive step helps maintain the smooth operation of passport services for the entire Gardner community.

Absolutely, parking is readily available and quite convenient at the Gardner Post Office. You’ll find a free, paved parking lot directly behind the building, easily accessed from Depot Street. This lot offers ample spaces, typically 15-20, so finding a spot shouldn’t be an issue, even during busier periods. Additionally, there’s some street parking along E Jefferson Street right in front of the post office, though these spots are more limited. For your passport appointment, we recommend using the rear lot for the quickest access to the main entrance. It’s especially handy on a cold winter morning or a hot summer afternoon to minimize your walking distance.

If your child needs a passport, the process at the Gardner Post Office is designed to be as clear as possible, adhering to strict federal regulations for minors. Both parents or legal guardians must generally be present with the child for the application process. You’ll need to bring proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship (like their original birth certificate), proof of parental relationship (again, the birth certificate or adoption decree), and valid government-issued identification for both parents. If one parent cannot be present, a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) from the absent parent is required, along with a copy of the front and back of their ID. The passport acceptance agents at 106 E Jefferson Street are well-versed in these requirements and can guide you through each step to ensure your child’s application is completed accurately and efficiently.

For urgent passport needs, the Gardner Post Office can certainly assist with expedited processing. While they don’t print passports on-site, they can send your application with expedited service, which significantly reduces processing times. This involves an additional fee to the Department of State, typically $60, on top of the standard application and execution fees. You will also need to pay for expedited return shipping, usually an extra $19.53, to receive your passport back faster. Be sure to clearly mark your application for expedited service and discuss this with the passport agent during your scheduled appointment. They will ensure all necessary expedited fees are collected and that your application is flagged appropriately for quicker turnaround.

The passport office is located at 106 E JEFFERSON STREET, GARDNER, IL 60424. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8152372262.0 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 “GARDNER POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Gardner Post Office is notably convenient, a distinct advantage over facilities in larger, more congested towns. The most direct option is the free, paved parking lot situated directly behind the post office building, accessible from Depot Street. This lot, while not expansive, reliably offers approximately 15-20 spaces, providing ample room for visitors, even during peak postal hours. You can easily access this lot by turning south off E Jefferson Street onto Depot Street, then taking an immediate left into the lot. The walk from this parking area to the south-facing main entrance of the post office is a mere 50 feet, making it exceptionally quick and hassle-free. Alternatively, street parking is available along E Jefferson Street directly in front of the post office. While not metered, these spots are limited and can occasionally be occupied, especially during late morning mail pickups. For those needing to secure a spot, arriving 10-15 minutes prior to a scheduled passport appointment is a prudent strategy, ensuring you can select the most convenient parking. During the winter months, typically from December through March, be mindful of potential ice accumulation in the parking lot and on the adjacent sidewalks; the village does maintain snow removal, but slick conditions can persist. In the warmer summer months, from June through August, direct sun exposure means the asphalt can become quite hot, so plan accordingly if you have young children or pets.

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.