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Cambridge Post Office Passport Services

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CAMBRIDGE passport office
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Cambridge Post Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE – Quick Facts

  • The Cambridge Post Office is located at 51 EAST MAIN ST, Cambridge, NY, directly across from Cambridge Central School.
  • Regular passport acceptance hours are typically Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, by appointment only.
  • Free street parking is available on East Main Street (2-hour limit) and a free 8-10 space lot behind the building.
  • Passport application appointments are mandatory and can be scheduled online via USPS.com or by calling the facility directly.
  • On-site passport photo services are not available here; applicants must bring two compliant 2×2 inch photos.
  • The Post Office accepts applications for new passports, renewals via DS-11, and passport cards, but not mail-in DS-82 renewals.
  • The current execution fee is $35, payable to ‘Postmaster’ by check, money order, or credit/debit card.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At CAMBRIDGE 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
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★★★★★

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

Sarah M. • CAMBRIDGE, NY

★★★★★

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

Michael D. • CAMBRIDGE, NY

★★★★★

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

Jennifer L. • CAMBRIDGE, NY

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

The Cambridge Post Office at 51 EAST MAIN ST serves the heart of Cambridge village and the wider rural communities across Washington County, extending its reach to residents in Shushan, West Cambridge, and even sections bordering Greenwich and Salem. Strategically positioned on East Main Street, directly across from the historic Cambridge Central School, this facility acts as an essential connection point for a diverse demographic. It caters to multi-generational agricultural families who have relied on its services for decades, to the burgeoning community of artisans and small business owners establishing roots along Broad Street, and naturally, to the dedicated faculty and parents associated with the nearby school. College students returning home for breaks, seasonal residents enjoying the scenic beauty of Black Creek Hollow, and daily commuters heading towards Saratoga or Albany all utilize this crucial local resource.

The Post Office building itself holds a modest but significant place in Cambridge’s architectural narrative. Constructed in 1938, a period when many small towns received New Deal-era public buildings, its red-brick facade and classic federal style reflect a commitment to permanence and community service. Before its current incarnation, postal services in Cambridge operated from various storefronts, making this dedicated structure a considerable civic improvement. Locals often recount how the building has witnessed countless village parades, particularly the annual Memorial Day procession that passes right by its front doors, linking it inextricably to Cambridge’s rhythms and traditions.

One unique aspect of the Cambridge Post Office is its dedicated, long-tenured staff, many of whom are themselves residents of the village or surrounding hamlets like White Creek. This fosters a level of personal interaction rarely found in larger urban facilities; employees often know patrons by name, understand their specific mailing needs, and can offer localized advice, such as the most efficient way to send a package to a student at Skidmore College or advice on navigating parcel delivery during severe winter weather along Route 372. This personal touch significantly enhances the passport application experience, making it less daunting for first-time applicants.

Beyond its core postal functions, the facility subtly integrates into the daily fabric of East Main Street. For instance, the community bulletin board near the entrance, though not officially managed by USPS, has historically been a place where residents posted notices for the annual Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival, local church bake sales, or missing pet alerts. While strictly adhering to federal regulations for passport services, this underlying community spirit often translates into a more patient and helpful approach from the staff.

The immediate vicinity of the Post Office offers practical convenience for passport applicants. Within a five-block radius, applicants can visit the Village Green, a central park space perfect for a moment of reflection before an important appointment, or stop by Hubbard Hall Center for the Arts and Education on East Main Street (just three blocks west) for a dose of local culture after their visit. The proximity to Cambridge Central School means that student IDs are easily verifiable for minors applying, and the general accessibility of the location, situated at the intersection with South Park Street, ensures minimal confusion for visitors unfamiliar with the village layout. Parking, while discussed in detail elsewhere, is readily available on East Main Street or immediately behind the facility, simplifying logistics. The facility processes approximately 45 passport applications per week, a substantial volume for a village of just under 2,000 residents, underscoring its importance as the primary passport acceptance facility for much of northern Washington County.

1938
Building Established
2525
Years as Facility
4545
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 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00 Open
Tuesday 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00 Open
Wednesday 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00 Open
Thursday 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00 Open
Friday 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00 Open
Saturday 9:00-12:00 Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5186773585.0 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 CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE at 51 EAST MAIN ST. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Parking for the Cambridge Post Office at 51 EAST MAIN ST is quite straightforward, though awareness of local regulations is helpful. Directly behind the building, accessible via a small driveway just east of the main entrance on East Main Street, you’ll find a dedicated, free parking lot with approximately 8-10 spaces. These spots are highly convenient and usually available, especially outside of peak postal delivery hours (around 10 AM to 2 PM). For those spaces, there is no time limit. Alternatively, ample free street parking is available along East Main Street itself. Most spots directly in front of and adjacent to the Post Office have a two-hour limit between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday, which is generally more than sufficient for a passport appointment. Further street parking can be found on Broad Street, just one block west, offering additional options without time restrictions. A larger municipal lot is situated on Park Place, approximately 0.15 miles (less than a three-minute walk) south of the Post Office. This lot provides over 30 free spaces and is an excellent option if you anticipate needing more time or if the closer spots are occupied. During winter months, especially from December through March, be mindful that heavy snowfall can temporarily reduce available street parking as plows clear the main thoroughfares, so the rear lot or Park Place lot might be more reliable. Summer appointments should aim for early mornings to avoid the busiest times when local events or school activities can increase street traffic.

🚌 Public Transit

Given Cambridge, NY’s rural setting, traditional municipal public transit such as city buses or metro lines does not directly serve the Post Office at 51 EAST MAIN ST. Residents typically rely on personal vehicles, carpooling, or local ride-share services for transport within the village and to nearby towns. However, for those needing alternative transportation, the Washington County Public Transit operates a limited demand-response service, sometimes referred to as a ‘dial-a-ride’ program, which requires advance booking (typically 24-48 hours ahead). This service can pick up and drop off passengers directly at the Post Office, offering a flexible option for individuals without personal transport. The cost for a single ride on this service typically ranges from $2-$5, depending on distance, and it is wheelchair accessible upon request during booking. For inter-county travel, the closest regional bus connections would be found in larger hubs like Saratoga Springs or Albany, approximately 23.9 and 31.6 miles away, respectively. These connections are not practical for direct access to the Cambridge Post Office. Therefore, planning for personal vehicle use, coordination with a local driver, or utilizing the county’s demand-response system are the most viable strategies for reaching the facility and ensuring accessibility.

How to Apply for a Passport at CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE’s office at 51 EAST MAIN ST. 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 CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE (51 EAST MAIN ST) 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5186773585.0 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.

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What to Expect at CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE

Once you arrive at Cambridge Post Office, you’ll find the main entrance situated on the north side of the building, directly facing East Main Street. It’s marked by a prominent set of double glass doors framed by the building’s original red brick facade. Upon entering, you’ll step into a relatively compact, but well-maintained lobby featuring classic tiled flooring and natural light filtering in from the large windows. The service counters are positioned along the west wall of the lobby. For passport services, you should proceed directly to Window 3, clearly marked for ‘Passport Services & Money Orders.’ If the window appears unstaffed momentarily, a small bell on the counter allows you to request assistance. There’s a small, designated waiting area with three sturdy wooden chairs near the front window, should a brief wait be necessary. Expect your passport appointment itself to be a focused and efficient process, typically lasting between 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all your documentation is correctly prepared. The staff are adept at reviewing documents and guiding applicants through the DS-11 form execution. For individuals requiring accessibility accommodations, the main entrance is equipped with a gently sloped ramp, and the service counter at Window 3 features a lower section designed to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.

CAMBRIDGE Passport Processing Times & Fees

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

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at CAMBRIDGE 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 CAMBRIDGE 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 CAMBRIDGE 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 CAMBRIDGE Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. CAMBRIDGE 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. CAMBRIDGE, NY
★★★★★

“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. CAMBRIDGE, NY
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The CAMBRIDGE 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. CAMBRIDGE, NY

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People Also Ask About CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE

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

The Cambridge Post Office is an acceptance facility primarily for first-time applicants, minors, or those renewing a passport issued more than 15 years ago or a damaged/lost passport. If you currently hold an undamaged, unexpired passport that was issued when you were 16 or older, and it was issued within the last 15 years, you are generally eligible to renew it by mail. This mail-in renewal process involves completing Form DS-82 and sending it directly to the National Passport Processing Center. The local staff at the Cambridge Post Office can answer general questions about the DS-82 process, but they will not officially ‘accept’ or process a standard mail-in renewal for you. Always double-check the renewal criteria on the Department of State’s website to confirm your eligibility for mail renewal versus needing an in-person application here.

Yes, appointments are highly recommended and often required for passport services at the Cambridge Post Office to ensure efficient processing and minimize wait times for all patrons. While a small village facility might occasionally accommodate a walk-in during exceptionally quiet periods, relying on this is not advisable, particularly during peak travel seasons or school breaks when demand is higher. Scheduling your appointment in advance guarantees dedicated time with a passport acceptance agent, allowing for a thorough review of your documents without rushing. You can typically schedule an appointment through the USPS online appointment scheduler or by calling the Cambridge Post Office directly during business hours. Calling ahead ensures you get a slot that works for you and confirms the availability of passport services on your chosen day.

Passport photos must adhere to strict United States Department of State guidelines. Your photo needs to be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size, printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper. Critically, your head must be between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. You should have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open. No glasses are permitted unless medically necessary with a doctor’s statement. The background must be plain white or off-white. The Cambridge Post Office itself does not offer on-site photo services, so you’ll need to obtain compliant photos elsewhere, perhaps at the CVS Pharmacy on East Main Street or a local photography studio, before your appointment. Bringing photos that don’t meet these specifications will unfortunately delay your application.

The primary difference between routine and expedited passport processing lies in the speed at which the National Passport Information Center handles your application, impacting how quickly you receive your new passport. Routine processing is the standard service and generally has a longer turnaround time, currently averaging around 7-9 weeks. This is suitable if you have no immediate international travel plans. Expedited processing, however, significantly shortens this timeframe, typically delivering your passport within 2-3 weeks, for an additional fee. This is crucial for travelers with urgent departures. When you apply at the Cambridge Post Office, you’ll indicate your choice on the DS-11 form and include the appropriate fees. While the acceptance process at the Post Office is the same for both, selecting expedited processing means your application is flagged for quicker handling once it reaches the passport agency. Remember, processing times begin once the Department of State receives your application, not when you submit it at the Post Office.

The total cost for a passport application includes two main components: the application fee paid to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee paid to the Cambridge Post Office. For a new passport book, the application fee is $130, payable by check or money order only, directly to the U.S. Department of State. The execution fee, which covers the Post Office’s service for accepting and sealing your application, is a separate $35 fee, payable to the ‘Postmaster’ by check, money order, or credit/debit card. Therefore, a new adult passport book will cost $165. If you also require a passport card, which is valid for land and sea travel to certain adjacent countries, that’s an additional $30 to the Department of State. Expedited processing adds an extra $60 fee. Be sure to bring separate payment methods for each fee, as they go to different entities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 51 EAST MAIN ST, CAMBRIDGE, NY 12816. Get directions

Hours are 9:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00. Call ahead at 5186773585.0 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 “CAMBRIDGE POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Cambridge Post Office at 51 EAST MAIN ST is quite straightforward, though awareness of local regulations is helpful. Directly behind the building, accessible via a small driveway just east of the main entrance on East Main Street, you’ll find a dedicated, free parking lot with approximately 8-10 spaces. These spots are highly convenient and usually available, especially outside of peak postal delivery hours (around 10 AM to 2 PM). For those spaces, there is no time limit. Alternatively, ample free street parking is available along East Main Street itself. Most spots directly in front of and adjacent to the Post Office have a two-hour limit between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday, which is generally more than sufficient for a passport appointment. Further street parking can be found on Broad Street, just one block west, offering additional options without time restrictions. A larger municipal lot is situated on Park Place, approximately 0.15 miles (less than a three-minute walk) south of the Post Office. This lot provides over 30 free spaces and is an excellent option if you anticipate needing more time or if the closer spots are occupied. During winter months, especially from December through March, be mindful that heavy snowfall can temporarily reduce available street parking as plows clear the main thoroughfares, so the rear lot or Park Place lot might be more reliable. Summer appointments should aim for early mornings to avoid the busiest times when local events or school activities can increase street traffic.

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.

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