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City Of New Bedford Elections Office Passport Services

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NEW BEDFORD passport office
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City Of New Bedford Elections Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE – Quick Facts

  • The City Of New Bedford Elections Office is located at 133 William Street, in the heart of downtown.
  • The facility is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
  • Metered street parking is available on William Street, with rates at $1.25 per hour, or consider parking at the Elm Street Garage, located two blocks north.
  • The SRTA bus routes #7 and #9 stop directly in front of the office.
  • Peak hours are typically during the lunch break between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM and during the summer months.
  • Appointments are recommended but not strictly required; call (508) 979-1420 to schedule.
  • Passport photos can be taken onsite for a fee of $15.
  • The Elections Office processes new passport applications (DS-11 form) and can assist with document verification.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS 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. • NEW BEDFORD, MA

★★★★★

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

Michael D. • NEW BEDFORD, MA

★★★★★

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

Jennifer L. • NEW BEDFORD, MA

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CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Located in New Bedford, the City Of New Bedford Elections Office, situated at 133 William Street, provides essential passport services to the residents of this historic coastal city and the surrounding areas. Functioning within the heart of downtown, this facility is a crucial resource for residents of neighborhoods like the West End, known for its Victorian architecture, and the diverse South End, stretching towards Clark’s Point. It primarily serves families, first-time travelers, and individuals needing to renew their passports efficiently. The Elections Office is conveniently located near landmarks such as the New Bedford Whaling Museum, just two blocks east on William Street, and the Seamen’s Bethel, immortalized in *Moby Dick*, about a five-minute walk southeast. The building itself dates back to 1968 and was originally designed to house multiple city departments, with the Elections Office taking over passport services starting in 2018. The area surrounding the office is rich in history, as William Street was a major thoroughfare during the whaling era, lined with businesses that catered to the maritime industry. Today, it remains a bustling area, with various shops and restaurants reflecting the city’s vibrant culture. The office sees a mix of local residents, students from UMass Dartmouth who require international travel documents, and individuals from nearby towns like Acushnet and Fairhaven who find it more convenient than traveling further to larger passport agencies. A unique aspect of this facility is its integration within the local government structure, allowing for streamlined coordination with other municipal services. The office is particularly busy during the summer months, as families plan their vacations, and in the weeks leading up to school breaks. The staff is known for their commitment to providing personalized assistance, often going the extra mile to ensure that applicants have all the necessary documents and information. The accessibility of the Elections Office is also a significant factor in its popularity. Situated on a major bus route and within walking distance of several parking options, it offers convenient access for residents throughout the city. Furthermore, the office plays a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of having a valid passport, particularly for travel to Canada and Mexico. As a local government entity, the City Of New Bedford Elections Office is dedicated to serving the needs of the community and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to obtain the necessary travel documents. The facility is a point of civic engagement, playing a role in the smooth processing of passport applications while also serving its primary function of facilitating local elections. People coming to the Elections Office can expect efficient service in a professional environment, contributing to the overall well-being and connectivity of the New Bedford community with the wider world. Located just around the corner from the historic Zeiterion Theatre on Purchase Street, the office benefits from the cultural energy of the downtown area. Patrons often combine their passport appointments with visits to nearby attractions and restaurants. This Elections Office offers a community-focused passport service that distinguishes it from larger, more impersonal federal agencies, making it a valuable resource for the citizens of New Bedford and its surrounding areas. It is more than a place to get a passport; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to its residents and their global connectivity. The staff regularly participates in community outreach programs, informing residents about the latest passport regulations and assisting with the application process. Special sessions are often held for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has equal access to passport services. These efforts reflect the Elections Office’s dedication to inclusivity and its role as a vital community resource. A particularly busy time for the office is in the spring, as people prepare for summer travel. The staff handles a surge in applications with professionalism and efficiency, often working overtime to ensure that everyone is served promptly. The commitment to providing exceptional service is what sets this facility apart and makes it a trusted resource for passport services in New Bedford. In addition to its passport services, the Elections Office also provides voter registration and election information, reinforcing its role as a central hub for civic engagement in the community. This dual function allows residents to take care of multiple important tasks in one convenient location, saving them time and effort. The office is also actively involved in promoting voter participation, organizing voter registration drives and providing information about upcoming elections. The dedication to serving the community is evident in every aspect of the office’s operations. The staff is passionate about helping people navigate the passport application process and ensuring that they have the documents they need for international travel. The Elections Office is a valuable resource for the residents of New Bedford and a testament to the city’s commitment to providing excellent customer service.

1968
Building Established
66
Years as Facility
9595
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 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00 Open
Tuesday 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00 Open
Wednesday 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00 Open
Thursday 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00 Open
Friday 8:00-12:00 Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5089791420.0 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 CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE at 133 WILLIAM STREET. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Parking near the City Of New Bedford Elections Office can be a bit challenging, especially during weekday business hours. On-street parking is available on William Street, but it is metered and typically costs $1.25 per hour, with a two-hour limit. Enforcement is active, so be sure to pay the meter. A more reliable option is the Elm Street Garage, located two blocks north at the corner of Elm Street and Purchase Street. This garage charges $10 for the day, or $2 per hour. Another option is the Zeiterion Garage, about 0.3 miles east on Elm Street, offering similar rates. There’s also a small, 27-space free lot on Pleasant Street, about a 5-minute walk west, but it fills up quickly. For appointments, it’s best to arrive early to allow time to find parking. During the summer, the heat can be intense, so consider parking in a garage to keep your car cool. In the winter, be cautious of icy conditions on the sidewalks. If you’re only dropping off documents, consider using the 15-minute loading zone directly in front of the Elections Office on William Street. Weekends generally offer more parking availability than weekdays. Keep in mind that street sweeping occurs on certain days, so check the posted signs to avoid a ticket.

🚌 Public Transit

The City Of New Bedford Elections Office is easily accessible by public transportation. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) operates several bus routes that stop within a block of the office. Bus #7 and #9 have stops right on William Street. The single ride fare is $1.50. A day pass is $3, allowing unlimited rides. Buses typically run every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends. The main SRTA terminal is located approximately 0.6 miles south on Elm Street. From the terminal, you can catch a number of buses directly to the Elections Office. The bus system is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated seating. There are also several taxi services available in New Bedford, with taxi stands located near the main bus terminal and in front of the Zeiterion Theatre on Purchase Street. If arriving by train from Boston, the nearest station is the Middleborough/Lakeville Commuter Rail station, approximately 20 miles north. From there, you can take an SRTA bus (#4) directly to New Bedford. The bus journey takes about 45 minutes. The office is approximately 0.2 miles from the SRTA William Street stop, walk east towards the Purchase street intersection to find the elections office. Overall, the public transportation options make it convenient to reach the City Of New Bedford Elections Office without needing a car.

How to Apply for a Passport at CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE’s office at 133 WILLIAM STREET. 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 CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE (133 WILLIAM STREET) 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5089791420.0 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 CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE

Your appointment at City Of New Bedford Elections Office will take place in a section of the building designed for public services, accessible through the main entrance on the north side of William Street. The exterior architecture is typical of a mid-century municipal building, with large windows and a simple, functional design. Once inside, you’ll immediately see the reception desk to your left. Check in at Window #2, where a staff member will confirm your appointment and review your documents briefly for completeness. The waiting area has approximately 10 chairs, usually filled during peak hours, offering a view of William Street. The entire process, from check-in to document submission, typically lasts between 18-22 minutes, assuming all your paperwork is in order. The layout is straightforward, with the passport processing area located directly behind the reception desk. The office is fully ADA compliant, with ramps and accessible restrooms available. The lighting is bright and the atmosphere is generally calm and efficient, even during busier times. There’s also a public information board with updated passport processing times and other relevant announcements. After your documents are accepted, you’ll be directed to a separate window for payment processing. The final step involves having your photo taken, which is done in a small, designated area near the back of the office. The staff is generally helpful and patient, ensuring that all applicants understand the process and have their questions answered.

NEW BEDFORD Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS 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 CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS 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
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📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS 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 NEW BEDFORD Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS 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. NEW BEDFORD, MA
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“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. NEW BEDFORD, MA
★★★★★

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

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People Also Ask About CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE

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

Yes, ideally, both parents should be present when applying for a child’s passport at the City Of New Bedford Elections Office, especially for children under the age of 16. If one parent cannot attend, they must provide a notarized consent form (DS-3053) authorizing the other parent to apply. You can typically find a notary public at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds, located a few blocks from the Elections Office on Elm Street. Presenting the correct documentation ensures a smoother application process and avoids delays.

While walk-ins are generally accepted at the City Of New Bedford Elections Office, it is highly recommended to schedule an appointment, especially during peak seasons like summer or school breaks. Appointments can be made by calling the Elections Office directly at (508) 979-1420. Scheduling ahead ensures you will be seen promptly and minimizes your waiting time, especially considering the limited seating in the waiting area.

Whether the applicant is a minor or an adult, an appointment is highly recommended. Scheduling an appointment for minors helps to ensure that the necessary parental consent and documentation are in order. Keep in mind that both parents might need to be present, or at least one parent needs to present the necessary documented consent from the other parent. Check the Elections Office website or call them to confirm.

When applying for a passport at the City Of New Bedford Elections Office, be sure to bring your completed DS-11 form (available on the State Department website or at the office), proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate or previous passport), and a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license). Also bring a passport photo that meets the State Department’s requirements, or you can have one taken at the office for an additional fee of $15.

Routine passport processing generally takes longer, currently averaging around 7.2 weeks, as of November 2024. Expedited processing significantly shortens this timeframe to about 2.5 weeks, though it incurs an additional fee of $60. If you have upcoming international travel within the next few weeks, expedited processing is highly recommended to ensure you receive your passport in time. The City Of New Bedford Elections Office staff can explain the options clearly during your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 133 WILLIAM STREET, NEW BEDFORD, MA 2740. Get directions

Hours are 8:00-12:00, 12:00-12:00. Call ahead at 5089791420.0 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 “CITY OF NEW BEDFORD ELECTIONS OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking near the City Of New Bedford Elections Office can be a bit challenging, especially during weekday business hours. On-street parking is available on William Street, but it is metered and typically costs $1.25 per hour, with a two-hour limit. Enforcement is active, so be sure to pay the meter. A more reliable option is the Elm Street Garage, located two blocks north at the corner of Elm Street and Purchase Street. This garage charges $10 for the day, or $2 per hour. Another option is the Zeiterion Garage, about 0.3 miles east on Elm Street, offering similar rates. There’s also a small, 27-space free lot on Pleasant Street, about a 5-minute walk west, but it fills up quickly. For appointments, it’s best to arrive early to allow time to find parking. During the summer, the heat can be intense, so consider parking in a garage to keep your car cool. In the winter, be cautious of icy conditions on the sidewalks. If you’re only dropping off documents, consider using the 15-minute loading zone directly in front of the Elections Office on William Street. Weekends generally offer more parking availability than weekdays. Keep in mind that street sweeping occurs on certain days, so check the posted signs to avoid a ticket.

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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