Rochelle Post Office Passport Services

Yes, expedited service is available for passport applications processed at the Rochelle Post Office. It’s important to understand that this is a federal service, and the expedited fee is paid directly to the U.S. Department of State, not to the local Post Office. For an additional $60, plus the cost of expedited return shipping (typically $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery), your application will be processed on a faster track. Currently, as of November 2024, routine processing is averaging 7.2 weeks, while expedited processing at the Rochelle facility typically reduces that to an average of 2.5 weeks. When you visit the Post Office at 501 Lincoln Highway for your appointment, simply inform the acceptance agent that you require expedited service, and they will ensure your application is marked correctly and guide you through the separate payment process.

When submitting a passport application at the Rochelle Post Office, you will need to prepare two separate payments. The first payment, for the passport application fee itself, must be made out directly to the “U.S. Department of State” as a check or money order. Personal checks, certified checks, cashier’s checks, and postal money orders are all acceptable for this portion. The second payment covers the execution fee, which is a $35 charge made payable to “USPS,” along with any additional fees for on-site passport photos ($15) or expedited return shipping. For this second payment to USPS, the Rochelle Post Office accepts checks, money orders, debit cards, and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). Cash is not accepted for any passport-related fees. Ensure both payments are ready when you arrive for your scheduled appointment at 501 Lincoln Highway to avoid delays.

The Rochelle Post Office offers passport acceptance services by appointment during specific hours, generally Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. It’s crucial to confirm these times and schedule your visit in advance by calling the Post Office directly at 815-562-4217 or using the online scheduling tool. While the main postal counter might have slightly extended hours for regular mail services, passport processing requires a dedicated agent and specific time slots. We highly recommend arriving for your appointment during off-peak times, such as mid-morning, to potentially reduce any wait. Avoiding the lunch hour (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM) and the end of the business day (after 3:00 PM) can often lead to a more relaxed and efficient experience. The facility is closed on weekends and federal holidays for passport services, so plan your visit to 501 Lincoln Highway accordingly.

Yes, absolutely. For all minor passport applications (applicants under 16), it is strongly recommended, and often required, that both parents or legal guardians appear in person with the child at the Rochelle Post Office. This ensures both parents can sign the DS-11 application form in front of the acceptance agent. Each parent must also present a valid government-issued photo identification. If only one parent can attend, they must present the second parent’s notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with a copy of the non-applying parent’s identification, or provide primary evidence of sole legal custody. The knowledgeable staff at the 501 Lincoln Highway location are well-versed in these specific requirements and can provide guidance if your situation deviates from both parents being present.

While the Rochelle Post Office at 501 Lincoln Highway technically accepts walk-in passport applications, it is strongly discouraged and not recommended. Passport services require a dedicated acceptance agent and a specific amount of time for review and processing, which makes pre-booked appointments significantly more efficient. Walk-in availability is entirely dependent on the existing appointment schedule, current staffing levels, and the number of applicants already waiting. You may experience a substantial wait time, or even be turned away if no agent is available to assist you. To guarantee your service and minimize your wait, it is always best practice to schedule an appointment in advance, either online or by calling the Post Office at 815-562-4217. Planning ahead ensures a smoother and more predictable experience when applying for your passport in Rochelle.

The passport office is located at 501 LINCOLN HIGHWAY, ROCHELLE, IL 61068. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8155624634.0 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 “ROCHELLE POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Rochelle Post Office at 501 Lincoln Highway is primarily facilitated by a dedicated, free paved lot located immediately to the west and rear of the building. This lot is most conveniently accessed from N 5th Street, which runs parallel to the post office property. The lot offers approximately 25 marked spaces, providing ample room for most visitors, even during peak hours. For those seeking a very quick stop or drop-off, there are also 4 parallel street parking spaces directly on Lincoln Highway, though these tend to fill quickly. There is no cost associated with parking at this facility or on the adjacent streets. To ensure a smooth visit, especially for scheduled passport appointments, it is advisable to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your designated time to secure a preferred spot and avoid any rushing. The rear lot provides direct pedestrian access to a side entrance, or a brief walk of less than 50 feet around to the main entrance on Lincoln Highway. During winter months, typically from December through March, the lot is routinely plowed and salted, but residual ice patches, particularly in shaded areas, can persist. Visitors should exercise caution on foot during these periods. In summer, the exposed lot offers little shade, so be mindful of direct sun exposure, especially if waiting in your vehicle briefly.

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.