Valparaiso Post Office Passport Services

Yes, securing an appointment is highly recommended, and often required, for passport application services at the Valparaiso Post Office. While some smaller facilities might occasionally accommodate walk-ins during very slow periods, the Valparaiso Post Office, being a key regional acceptance agent, typically operates on a scheduled basis to ensure efficient service and minimal wait times for all applicants. You can usually book an appointment online via the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or by calling the Valparaiso Post Office directly during business hours at 219-462-1322. Booking ahead ensures that a trained clerk at Window 3 is available to dedicate the necessary time to review your documents and process your application correctly, which is especially important during peak travel seasons like spring break or summer vacation planning.

Unfortunately, the Valparaiso Post Office on Valparaiso Street does not offer on-site passport photo services. Applicants are responsible for providing two identical, color passport-sized photographs (2×2 inches) that meet all U.S. Department of State requirements. It’s crucial that these photos are recent (taken within the last six months), clear, and against a plain white or off-white background. You can obtain compliant passport photos at various local businesses in Valparaiso, such as the CVS Pharmacy at 2501 Calumet Avenue (0.4 miles away) or the Walgreens at 2500 Calumet Avenue (0.5 miles away). Planning to get your photos done before your appointment at the post office will help streamline your application process considerably.

If your travel plans are urgent, the Valparaiso Post Office can process your application with expedited service, though it does involve an additional fee. When applying at 2700 Valparaiso Street, you’ll need to clearly indicate your need for expedited processing on your application and pay the associated government fee. This typically reduces the processing time significantly. For those with extremely time-sensitive travel (within 2-3 weeks), you may also consider adding 1-2 day delivery service for the return of your passport. For travel within 14 days, or 28 days if a visa is also required, you would need to contact the National Passport Information Center or make an appointment at a regional passport agency, such as the Chicago Passport Agency, as the Valparaiso Post Office cannot provide same-day or very rapid turnaround.

Yes, ideally, both parents should apply together in person for a minor’s passport at the Valparaiso Post Office, along with the child. This is the most straightforward way to fulfill the consent requirements for applicants under 16. Both parents must present valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, and provide proof of their parental relationship (like the child’s birth certificate). If one parent cannot attend, the absent parent must provide a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with a photocopy of the front and back of their ID. The Valparaiso postal clerks are well-versed in these requirements and can guide you through the process, but having both parents present from the outset simplifies everything significantly.

When a child needs a passport, there are specific requirements to ensure the minor’s identity and parental consent are properly verified. For applicants under 16, both parents and the child must appear in person at the Valparaiso Post Office, bringing the child’s original birth certificate (or other proof of U.S. citizenship), both parents’ valid government-issued IDs, and two compliant passport photos. If only one parent can attend, the absent parent must provide a notarized DS-3053 form and a copy of their ID. For minors aged 16 or 17, one parent or legal guardian must either apply with the minor or provide a notarized statement of consent, along with the minor’s proof of citizenship, ID, and photos. It’s always best to review the Department of State website or call the Valparaiso Post Office beforehand to confirm the most current requirements for minor applicants.

The passport office is located at 2700 VALPARAISO STREET, VALPARAISO, IN 46383. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 2194622180.0 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 “VALPARAISO POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Convenient parking options are readily available directly adjacent to the Valparaiso Post Office at 2700 Valparaiso Street. The facility boasts a dedicated, free surface parking lot on its east side, offering approximately 45-50 marked spaces, including several ADA-compliant spots. This lot is accessible directly from Valparaiso Street, providing immediate access to the main entrance. For most passport appointments, which average 20-30 minutes, this on-site lot is typically sufficient, even during peak morning hours between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. It’s advisable to aim for an appointment slightly outside these times if you prefer fewer vehicles. Should the main lot be full, particularly on busy Mondays or Fridays, additional free street parking is often found along Valparaiso Street itself, extending both east and west of the post office, usually within a 1-block radius. Furthermore, a smaller, shared lot for adjacent businesses, including the Genoa Healthcare pharmacy, is available about 0.3 miles west on Wall Street (just off Valparaiso Street), offering another overflow option if needed, though walking back takes about 5 minutes. During winter months, especially from December through March, be mindful of potential ice patches in the parking lot and ensure your vehicle is clear of snow. Summer appointments, particularly in July and August, might mean hotter asphalt, so plan for direct sunlight exposure when parking.

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.