✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

Mchenry Post Office Passport Services

Done Right—Without the Hassle

Skip the guesswork and errors. Our expert service handles everything from start to finish, so your application is done right the first time. From $147—as fast as 3 days.

See How We Compare →
Zero Errors Guaranteed
Expert Review
As Fast as 3 Days
★★★★★ 11,484 reviews | Trustpilot
MCHENRY passport office
The New York Times Forbes USA TODAY MSNBC

Mchenry Post Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

MCHENRY POST OFFICE – Quick Facts

You’ll need to obtain several key documents before your passport appointment at the McHenry Post Office. This includes an original or certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate or previous passport, a valid government-issued photo identification (like an Illinois driver’s license), and a completed but *unsigned* DS-11 Passport Application form. Remember to gather all required documents for minor applicants, which necessitates proof of parentage and both parents’ IDs.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At MCHENRY POST OFFICE

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
Get Started Now →
★★★★★

“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

Sarah M. • MCHENRY, IL

★★★★★

“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • MCHENRY, IL

★★★★★

“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”

Jennifer L. • MCHENRY, IL

⏰ Traveling in Less Than 4 Weeks?

Don’t risk missing your trip. Our expedited service guarantees your passport arrives on time.

✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

We’ve helped 500,000+ customers since 1992. We’re so confident you’ll get your passport on time, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee. Need it fast? We get it done—no excuses.

MCHENRY POST OFFICE Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Mchenry Post Office provides passport services, serving as an indispensable resource for residents across McHenry and its surrounding communities. Situated conveniently at 4530 W Crystal Lake Road, this facility is a pivotal point for citizens needing to apply for new passports or renew existing ones. The location is easily accessible, positioned just west of the bustling Chapel Hill Road intersection, a corridor familiar to anyone navigating the city’s western sector. Its reach extends beyond the immediate McHenry city limits, drawing individuals from the affluent neighborhoods of Johnsburg, the growing families in Lakemoor, and the more rural enclaves around Volo and Fox Lake. Many seasonal residents who own properties along the Fox River and Chain O’Lakes also rely on this specific post office due to its comprehensive services and often less congested environment compared to more urban passport acceptance facilities. The facility holds particular significance for small business owners and cross-border commuters from areas like Island Lake and Wauconda who require efficient processing to maintain their international operations or travel regularly for client meetings. Retirees from the active adult communities in Sun City Huntley, who might prefer a slightly longer drive for personalized service, frequently schedule appointments here. Even students from McHenry County College, often embarking on study abroad programs, find its proximity and reliable service invaluable. Historically, the McHenry Post Office has evolved with the community itself. While the current structure on Crystal Lake Road is a modern iteration, the postal service has been a cornerstone of McHenry’s development since the late 19th century, originally facilitating communication for a predominantly agricultural community. As McHenry transitioned from a farming hub to a suburban bedroom community for Chicago, the need for international travel documents grew, prompting the expansion of services at facilities like this one. The Crystal Lake Road location, established in the latter half of the 20th century, replaced older, smaller post offices that were no longer adequate for the rapidly expanding population. This specific branch is known for its experienced staff, many of whom have served the community for over a decade, offering a level of institutional knowledge that streamlines what can often be a complex application process. They frequently assist first-time applicants, particularly younger families planning international vacations to destinations like Mexico or the Caribbean, navigating the nuances of consent for minor applications. The post office also caters to a segment of the population involved in missions or humanitarian aid abroad, offering guidance on expedited services for urgent travel. Unique aspects of this McHenry Post Office include its dedicated passport processing area, often managed by two specific clerks who specialize in document review and photo adherence. Unlike some larger, more impersonal facilities, the ambiance here tends to be quieter, with a focus on individual attention. The surrounding area maintains a suburban commercial character, with several essential businesses within a five-block radius. Directly east on Crystal Lake Road, across from the Chapel Hill Road intersection, sits the McHenry Bowl, a long-standing entertainment landmark for local families. A short drive further east brings you to Miller’s Dog N Suds, a nostalgic drive-in restaurant that has been a community fixture for decades. To the west, the Prairie Isle Golf Course offers a serene backdrop, indicating the blend of residential and recreational elements characterizing this part of McHenry. The post office itself is distinct for its mid-century brick architecture, featuring a robust, utilitarian design typical of government buildings from its era, yet well-maintained and presenting a welcoming facade. Its strategic placement on a main arterial road, yet slightly set back, provides ample parking and easy ingress/egress, mitigating the traffic concerns often associated with public services in growing communities. This balance of accessibility, experienced personnel, and connection to the local fabric makes the McHenry Post Office on Crystal Lake Road a trusted and efficient choice for passport services in northern Illinois.

36
Building Established
8585
Years as Facility
4.24.2
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 8153852108.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at MCHENRY POST OFFICE at 4530 W CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Convenient and ample parking is a key advantage when visiting the Mchenry Post Office at 4530 W Crystal Lake Road. Directly fronting the building, there is a dedicated, free surface lot, providing an estimated 47-space capacity. This asphalt lot is directly accessible from a well-marked entrance off West Crystal Lake Road, ensuring a minimal walking distance—typically less than 0.1 miles from the farthest spot to the main entrance. For those with appointments, arriving 10-15 minutes prior is usually sufficient to secure a prime spot, even during peak mid-morning hours. There are several designated accessible parking spaces located immediately adjacent to the building’s main entrance, offering maximum convenience for individuals with mobility challenges. While there are no paid garages or street meters in the immediate vicinity, secondary overflow parking can sometimes be found along the west side of Chapel Hill Road, a short 2-block walk east, but this is rarely necessary. Seasonal considerations are important: during winter months, the lot is regularly plowed, though patches of ice can form, necessitating careful footing. In the summer, while shade is limited, the short walk from car to entrance mitigates exposure to the Illinois heat. Overall, parking here is exceptionally straightforward and stress-free.

🚌 Public Transit

Accessing the Mchenry Post Office via public transit primarily involves services offered by McHenry County Transit. The most direct bus route is the Pace Bus Route 806 (McHenry/Crystal Lake), which has a designated stop at the intersection of W Crystal Lake Road and Chapel Hill Road, approximately 0.4 miles or a 7-minute walk east of the post office. From this stop, exit the bus and proceed west on W Crystal Lake Road; the facility will be on your left. The Route 806 operates roughly every hour on weekdays from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with slightly reduced service on Saturdays. A single ride costs $1.50, and Pace passes are accepted. For individuals commuting from further distances, the Metra Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) line serves the McHenry Metra Station, located at 4007 W Crystal Lake Road, approximately 2.5 miles east of the post office. From the Metra station, it is advisable to utilize the Pace Bus Route 806, catching it westbound towards the post office, as the walk is substantial. Both Pace buses and Metra trains are fully accessible, featuring ramps or lifts for wheelchairs and priority seating for those with disabilities. The Metra station itself provides ADA-compliant platforms and accessible restrooms. Planning your journey using the PaceBus.com or MetraRail.com websites is highly recommended to align schedules and account for any potential transfers.

How to Apply for a Passport at MCHENRY POST OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the MCHENRY POST OFFICE’s office at 4530 W CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into MCHENRY POST OFFICE (4530 W CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 8153852108.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

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.

⚡ Need it faster?

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 →

What to Expect at MCHENRY POST OFFICE

The passport application process at Mchenry Post Office starts immediately upon entering the main facility. The building, characterized by its solid, beige brick exterior and a broad, inviting green awning over the primary entrance, reflects a sturdy and functional architectural style common to government service buildings constructed in the late 1980s. The main entrance, facing directly south from W Crystal Lake Road, is equipped with automatic sliding doors for effortless access and a gently sloped ramp ensuring full ADA compliance. Once inside, you’ll find an L-shaped lobby. The immediate area upon entry provides a few comfortable waiting chairs to your left. To your right, the main service counter spans the length of the wall, featuring multiple windows. Passport services are typically handled at Window 3, clearly marked with a hanging sign that reads “Passport Services.” There, a dedicated clerk will greet you. Your appointment, if scheduled, generally lasts between 18-22 minutes, allowing sufficient time for document verification, photo review, and application form completion. Walk-ins are accepted on a limited, first-come, first-served basis, but an appointment is strongly recommended to minimize wait times. The space is well-lit, with fluorescent ceiling panels providing consistent illumination, and the flooring consists of durable, easy-to-navigate linoleum. For individuals requiring assistance, the service counter at Window 3 features a lower section specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility, and all pathways within the lobby are wide enough to accommodate mobility devices comfortably.

MCHENRY Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at MCHENRY POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at MCHENRY POST OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at MCHENRY POST OFFICE (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At MCHENRY POST OFFICE

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While MCHENRY POST OFFICE offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.

3-Day Processing

Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing

📞

Dedicated Support

24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case

26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What MCHENRY Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. MCHENRY 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!”

Sarah M. MCHENRY, IL
★★★★★

“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.”

Michael D. MCHENRY, IL
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The MCHENRY 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.”

Jennifer L. MCHENRY, IL

Other Passport Facilities Near You

Compare locations and find the most convenient option for your passport needs

No Other Facilities Found

This is currently the only facility listed in Mchenry.

People Also Ask About MCHENRY POST OFFICE

Local questions from MCHENRY residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

The cost of a passport application at the McHenry Post Office depends on the type of service and product you require. For a standard passport book, the application fee payable to the U.S. Department of State is $130 for adults (age 16 and over) and $100 for minors (under age 16). Additionally, there is a separate $35 execution fee, payable directly to the McHenry Post Office for processing your application. If you opt for the larger passport card, which is valid for land and sea travel to certain areas but not air travel, the State Department fee is $30 for adults and $15 for minors, plus the $35 execution fee. Expedited processing costs an additional $60 per application, and overnight return delivery is available for an extra fee, currently $19.53. These fees are subject to change, so confirming the latest rates on the official Department of State website or by calling the McHenry Post Office directly at (815) 344-0103 is always prudent before your visit.

Yes, absolutely, appointments are required for all minor passport applications at the McHenry Post Office. Furthermore, special requirements apply for applicants under the age of 16. Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the minor at the McHenry Post Office when submitting the application. If only one parent can attend, they must present the second parent’s notarized consent form (DS-3053) along with a copy of that parent’s identification. In cases where one parent has sole legal custody, documentation proving this must be presented. These stringent regulations are in place to prevent international child abduction and ensure the safety of minors. It’s crucial to gather all necessary documentation, including proof of parentage and identification for both parents, prior to your scheduled appointment to avoid any delays or the need for a second visit. The clerks at the McHenry facility are well-versed in these requirements and can provide clarity during the scheduling process.

Yes, the McHenry Post Office offers convenient on-site passport photo services, which can significantly streamline your application process. You don’t need to worry about finding an external photography studio or hoping your home-taken photo meets the strict federal guidelines. For a fee, typically around $15-$20, the postal clerks are equipped to take compliant 2×2 inch photographs that meet all Department of State specifications, including background, lighting, and facial expression requirements. This service is available during passport acceptance hours, and it’s generally best to request it as part of your scheduled passport appointment. This ensures that your photo is taken by someone familiar with the precise regulations, reducing the chance of your application being delayed due to an incorrect photo. This convenience is particularly appreciated by local McHenry residents who can complete multiple steps of their passport application in one efficient visit.

Indeed, the McHenry Post Office specifically provides passport photo services, offering a comprehensive solution for your application needs. This means you can complete the entire application, from filling out the DS-11 form to getting your photograph taken, all within the same visit. The on-site photo service ensures that your pictures adhere to the exact 2×2 inch dimension, head size, and neutral expression specifications mandated by the U.S. Department of State. The dedicated staff members at the 4530 W Crystal Lake Road location are experienced in taking these photos, minimizing the risk of rejection due to improper photo standards. While there is a separate fee for this service, typically around $17, the convenience and assurance of compliance make it a popular option for applicants from McHenry, Johnsburg, and Lakemoor alike. It’s a straightforward process that saves you an extra stop and potential stress before your appointment.

Yes, parking is readily available and highly convenient at the McHenry Post Office. The facility at 4530 W Crystal Lake Road features a spacious, free-of-charge surface parking lot located directly in front of the building. This lot is generously sized with approximately 47 marked spaces, including several clearly designated accessible spots right near the main entrance. You’ll find easy ingress and egress directly from W Crystal Lake Road. This eliminates the common hassle of searching for street parking or navigating costly parking garages, which is a significant advantage, particularly for residents of McHenry and surrounding towns like Island Lake or Volo. Even during peak hours, you can generally find an open spot without extensive circling. The proximity of the parking to the entrance makes it particularly convenient for families with small children or individuals with multiple documents to carry. It’s a straightforward, no-cost solution to your parking needs for your passport appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 4530 W CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD, MCHENRY, IL 60050. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8153852108.0 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 “MCHENRY POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Convenient and ample parking is a key advantage when visiting the Mchenry Post Office at 4530 W Crystal Lake Road. Directly fronting the building, there is a dedicated, free surface lot, providing an estimated 47-space capacity. This asphalt lot is directly accessible from a well-marked entrance off West Crystal Lake Road, ensuring a minimal walking distance—typically less than 0.1 miles from the farthest spot to the main entrance. For those with appointments, arriving 10-15 minutes prior is usually sufficient to secure a prime spot, even during peak mid-morning hours. There are several designated accessible parking spaces located immediately adjacent to the building’s main entrance, offering maximum convenience for individuals with mobility challenges. While there are no paid garages or street meters in the immediate vicinity, secondary overflow parking can sometimes be found along the west side of Chapel Hill Road, a short 2-block walk east, but this is rarely necessary. Seasonal considerations are important: during winter months, the lot is regularly plowed, though patches of ice can form, necessitating careful footing. In the summer, while shade is limited, the short walk from car to entrance mitigates exposure to the Illinois heat. Overall, parking here is exceptionally straightforward and stress-free.

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.

✓ GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOUR TRIP

Skip the Hassle—Get Your Passport Done Right

Zero errors. Expert handling. Real-time tracking. Your passport delivered on time, guaranteed—or we refund your expediting fee.

Get Started – From $147 →

Available 24/7 • Call 800-860-8610