Zion Township Passport Services

Yes, Zion Township does offer expedited service for new passport applications, but it’s crucial to understand the process. When submitting your DS-11 form at 1015 27th Street, you can request expedited processing directly. This involves an additional fee of $60 per application, payable to the U.S. Department of State. While the Township staff will ensure your application is properly marked for expedited handling, they do not control the actual processing time once it leaves their facility. As of late 2024, expedited processing through the State Department averages 2-3 weeks, compared to routine processing at 6-8 weeks. For the fastest possible return, you can also opt for 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport book from the State Department for an extra charge of $19.53. It’s always wise to confirm current processing times on the Department of State’s official website before your appointment at Zion Township.

Generally, you cannot renew your passport at the Zion Township facility if you are using a DS-82 form (Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals). Most passport renewals are handled directly by mail, as long as your previous passport meets specific criteria: it is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years, and you were at least 16 years old when it was issued. However, there are exceptions. If your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago, was issued when you were under 16, or is significantly damaged, you would need to apply as a first-time applicant using Form DS-11. In such cases, Zion Township would gladly assist you with this ‘new’ application process. Always review the specific renewal guidelines on the Department of State website or contact the Township office at (847) 872-2847 to clarify your individual renewal situation before your visit.

The processing duration for a passport application submitted at Zion Township depends on whether you opt for routine or expedited service. As of November 2024, the U.S. Department of State advises that routine passport processing is averaging 7.2 weeks from the day your application is received at a passport agency, not from your appointment at 1015 27th Street. If you choose expedited service for an additional $60, the processing time shortens considerably to approximately 2.5 weeks. These estimates do not include mail time, which can add several days on both ends of the process. For this reason, many applicants from Zion and surrounding areas like Beach Park choose to utilize the optional 1-2 day delivery service from the State Department for an additional $19.53 if they need their passport quickly. Always apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any undue stress.

If you find yourself in an urgent situation requiring a passport faster than the standard expedited service, Zion Township can still accept your application, but you’ll need to consider additional steps. For travel within 2-3 weeks, you must apply for expedited service at the Township facility and strongly consider adding the 1-2 day delivery return. For travel within 14 days, or within 28 days if you also need a foreign visa, you typically cannot rely on a local acceptance facility like Zion Township. In these critical cases, you would need to make an appointment directly at a Passport Agency, such as the Chicago Passport Agency, by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. The staff at Zion Township can help ensure your DS-11 is correctly filled out for immediate submission to an agency, but they cannot directly guarantee urgent agency appointments.

Unfortunately, Zion Township does not offer on-site passport photo services at their 1015 27th Street location. Applicants are required to bring two identical, color passport-sized photographs (2×2 inches) that meet strict U.S. Department of State requirements. These photos must be recent (taken within the last six months), clear, front-facing, with a plain white or off-white background, and no eyeglasses or hats. Several convenient options are available in Zion for obtaining compliant photos. Many local pharmacies, such as the CVS at 2600 Sheridan Road or the Walgreens at 1800 Sheridan Road, provide passport photo services for a fee, typically ranging from $15-$20. It’s always a good practice to double-check the photo requirements on the Department of State website before your appointment to ensure your photos will be accepted.

The passport office is located at 1015 27TH STREET, ZION, IL 60099. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8478722811.0 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 “ZION TOWNSHIP” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Zion Township facility at 1015 27th Street is exceptionally convenient, offering a dedicated, free surface parking lot directly adjacent to the west side of the building. This paved lot provides ample space, typically featuring 48 marked spaces, including several accessible spots near the main entrance, ensuring easy access for all visitors. The lot entrance is clearly marked off 27th Street, preventing any confusion. For optimal parking during your passport appointment, arriving 10-15 minutes prior is highly recommended, especially during weekday lunch hours (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM) when the lot experiences its peak usage, though spaces are rarely completely full. There are no parking meters or hourly fees to concern yourself with, offering a stress-free parking experience. In the winter months, Zion Township crews are diligent about snow removal and salting, ensuring the lot and walkways remain clear and safe, even after significant snowfall. During hot summer days, while shade can be limited, the short walk from your car to the west-facing main entrance minimizes exposure to the elements. For any overflow, additional free street parking is generally available along 27th Street, particularly west of the facility, though this is seldom necessary.

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.