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The Joliet Downtown Post Office at 51 E CLINTON STREET serves the diverse residents, burgeoning business community, and historic preservationists of downtown Joliet and its immediate surrounding neighborhoods. Positioned prominently at the intersection of East Clinton Street and North Chicago Street, just one block north of the iconic Rialto Square Theatre, this facility is a central nexus for postal and passport services. Its stately presence in the heart of the city’s historic core, adjacent to the Will County Courthouse complex and mere blocks from the Joliet Public Library’s Ottawa Street Branch, makes it a consistently visited destination.
The building itself holds significant architectural merit, having been constructed in 1934 during the Public Works Administration era. This Art Deco and Classical Revival structure, with its robust limestone facade and intricate detailing, stands as a testament to federal investment in civic infrastructure during the Great Depression. Its imposing presence, particularly from the vantage point of Chicago Street, conveys a sense of enduring public service. The post office originally served the burgeoning industrial and railroad town of Joliet, which, in the 1930s, was a significant hub of manufacturing and transportation. Today, while the economic landscape has shifted, the post office retains its importance, anchoring a revitalized downtown district.
For residents, the Joliet Downtown Post Office is often the most accessible passport acceptance facility. This includes long-standing families in the historic St. Patrick’s Neighborhood to the west, known for its elegant Victorian and Craftsman homes, and those in the Cathedral Area, situated southwest of the downtown core, characterized by its impressive architecture and proximity to the University of St. Francis. Young professionals moving into new loft apartments along Ottawa Street or in converted historic buildings near the Metra station also rely heavily on this central location. The facility also caters to business travelers from companies headquartered downtown, such as those working at First Midwest Bank’s regional offices or other professional services firms clustered along Cass Street and Jefferson Street. Students and faculty affiliated with the University of St. Francis, particularly those commuting from areas without a local post office offering passport services, find its downtown location exceptionally convenient, especially given its proximity to the Pace Bus transfer center.
The facility’s unique position in downtown Joliet means it sees a varied clientele. On any given Tuesday morning, one might observe a family from the Upper Bluff neighborhood, situated overlooking the Des Plaines River, completing applications for their children’s first passports, alongside a retired couple from the Ridgewood area seeking to renew their travel documents for an Alaskan cruise. Lunchtime frequently brings employees from the Will County government buildings, needing to send certified mail or process international documents. Its operation hours, typically 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM for passport services, are well-suited for both early morning appointments before the workday begins and late afternoon visits for those leaving downtown offices.
The Joliet Downtown Post Office distinguishes itself not only by its central location but also by its dedicated, experienced staff. Many employees have served the Joliet community for decades, offering a level of institutional knowledge and personalized service that is invaluable, particularly when navigating the sometimes-complex requirements of passport applications. They are adept at guiding applicants through the nuances of Form DS-11 for first-time applicants, Form DS-82 for renewals by mail, and the specific requirements for minors. The availability of on-site passport photo services, for a nominal fee of $15, eliminates the need for a separate trip to a pharmacy or photo studio, a convenience highly valued by busy individuals and families. This integrated service streamlines the entire application process significantly.
Moreover, the post office’s role extends beyond mere transaction processing; it’s a fixture in the civic life of Joliet. During local events, such as the New Orleans North festival or Light Up the Holidays parade, which often draw crowds through downtown, the post office remains a consistent, familiar presence, symbolizing reliability. Its immediate surroundings are rich with local history and activity. Within a five-block radius, applicants can easily visit the historic Rialto Square Theatre on Chicago Street, a restored movie palace boasting opulent architecture, or the imposing Will County Courthouse at 14 W. Jefferson Street, a hub of judicial activity. The Old Joliet Prison, now a popular tourist attraction offering tours, is just over a mile north, but its historical shadow looms large over the city’s identity. Closer still, on Ottawa Street, is the Joliet Public Library, a vital community resource. Across Clinton Street, the BMO Bank N.A. branch offers convenient banking services for those needing to obtain money orders or withdraw cash for passport fees. This concentrated cluster of institutions underscores the post office’s integral role in downtown Joliet’s functionality.
The facility also sees a steady stream of applicants from the surrounding townships, including Shorewood, Rockdale, and Plainfield, who may find the downtown Joliet location more convenient or accessible than other regional options, especially if they are already coming to Joliet for other errands or appointments. While facilities in Crest Hill or Channahon are options, the central nature of the Joliet Downtown Post Office often makes it a primary choice for those seeking a more established, full-service environment. This accessibility is further enhanced by its proximity to major thoroughfares like Route 30 (Jefferson Street) and Route 53 (Chicago Street), making it relatively easy to reach by car from various directions. The commitment to providing comprehensive passport services at this historic and well-situated location continues to solidify its status as a cornerstone of public service in Joliet, Illinois.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 8157233663.0 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 JOLIET DOWNTOWN POST OFFICE at 51 E CLINTON STREET. Easy access from major highways.
Parking for the Joliet Downtown Post Office at 51 E Clinton Street requires a bit of local knowledge, but several convenient options exist. Directly on East Clinton Street, in front of the post office, you’ll find a few metered street parking spots, typically priced at $1.50 per hour, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. These six spots are ideal for quick visits but often fill up quickly, especially during peak postal hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. A more reliable option is the large municipal parking deck located just one block west, at 110 N Chicago Street. This multi-story garage offers ample spaces for approximately $1.00 for the first hour and $0.75 for each subsequent hour, or a flat daily rate of $5.00. From the garage, it’s a straightforward 2-minute walk east on Clinton Street to the post office entrance. Alternatively, metered street parking is often available on North Chicago Street and East Jefferson Street, both within a 0.2-mile radius. Rates are similar to Clinton Street. For those willing to walk slightly further (about 3-4 blocks), limited free street parking can sometimes be found on side streets slightly outside the immediate downtown core, particularly south of Jefferson Street, though availability is not guaranteed. During summer months, consider the exposed parking decks can get quite hot, so plan your arrival accordingly, and during winter, sidewalks and stairwells might be icy, so wear appropriate footwear. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled passport appointment to allow ample time to secure parking and walk to the facility without rushing.
The Joliet Downtown Post Office is exceptionally well-served by public transit, making it a convenient option for applicants without private transportation. The primary hub for regional bus service, the Pace Joliet Gateway Center, is situated just two blocks south, at 90 East Jefferson Street. From the Gateway Center, a leisurely 4-minute walk north along North Chicago Street will bring you directly to the post office. Numerous Pace Bus routes converge at the Gateway Center, including routes #501 (West Jefferson), #507 (Plainfield Road), #508 (East Washington), and #509 (Collins Street), each operating with service frequencies of approximately 30-45 minutes on weekdays. A standard Pace single ride costs $2.00, or you can utilize a Ventra card for seamless transfers. For those traveling from further afield, the Metra commuter rail provides excellent access via the Joliet Union Station, located immediately adjacent to the Pace Gateway Center at 50 East Jefferson Street. The Metra Rock Island District line offers service from Chicago LaSalle Street Station, while the Heritage Corridor line connects from Chicago Union Station. Both lines typically run hourly during peak weekday hours and less frequently off-peak. From the Metra station, follow the signs to the Gateway Center, then walk two blocks north on North Chicago Street to the post office. All Pace buses and Metra trains are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated seating areas. The Joliet Union Station itself is fully ADA compliant, featuring elevators to all platforms, ensuring smooth access for all visitors arriving by train.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the JOLIET DOWNTOWN POST OFFICE’s office at 51 E CLINTON 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 JOLIET DOWNTOWN POST OFFICE (51 E CLINTON STREET) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 8157233663.0 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 →
Walking into Joliet Downtown Post Office, applicants are greeted by the impressive, classic architecture characteristic of federal buildings from the 1930s. The main entrance is centrally located on the north side of the building, directly facing East Clinton Street, marked by a set of sturdy double doors that are slightly recessed within a grand limestone archway. Upon entering, visitors step into a spacious, high-ceilinged lobby, often retaining original architectural details such as ornate brass fixtures and dark wood trim that harken back to its construction in 1934. The layout is straightforward: the general postal services counters are immediately visible to the right, but for passport services, applicants should proceed directly to the far left side of the main counter area. A clear sign typically designates “Passport Services” above windows 3 or 4.
Checking in involves presenting your appointment confirmation and identification to the clerk at the designated passport window. There is usually a short waiting area with a few chairs, though waiting times are generally minimal if you arrive promptly for your scheduled slot. The passport acceptance agent will then guide you through the process, which typically lasts between 18 and 22 minutes for a single adult application, assuming all documents are in order. The counter is designed with accessibility in mind, often featuring a lower section for wheelchair users. Throughout your appointment, the atmosphere is professional and focused. Restrooms are available discreetly located down a corridor to the left of the main lobby. Should you require passport photos, these can be taken on-site at a dedicated station near the passport counter, adding minimal time to your visit. The process is designed for efficiency and clarity, ensuring a smooth experience from arrival to application submission.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at JOLIET DOWNTOWN POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.
While JOLIET DOWNTOWN 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
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Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. JOLIET DOWNTOWN 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 JOLIET 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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