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Operating in New Bedford since 1938, the New Bedford Main Post Office at 695 Pleasant Street is a landmark in the heart of the city’s downtown area. This facility, situated near the intersection of Pleasant and Elm Streets, directly across from the YMCA and a block from the Bristol Building, has served generations of New Bedford residents. It is easily recognizable by its classic brick facade and prominent position on Pleasant Street, a main thoroughfare connecting the north and south ends of the city. The post office is particularly vital to residents of the densely populated neighborhoods of Downtown, the West End, and the South End, providing essential postal services, including passport application processing. The diverse population of New Bedford, encompassing Portuguese, Brazilian, and Cape Verdean communities, relies heavily on the post office for international communication and travel documentation. The Main Post Office witnesses a steady flow of customers daily, from seniors managing their social security checks to young families preparing for their first international vacation. Its strategic location makes it a convenient stop for those commuting along Route 18 or using the SRTA bus system, with multiple bus stops within a two-block radius. The building itself echoes the architectural style prevalent in downtown New Bedford during the early 20th century, reflecting the city’s maritime history and industrial past. Nearby landmarks within a few blocks include the New Bedford Whaling Museum on Johnny Cake Hill, the Seamen’s Bethel made famous by Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, and the historic Custom House. The facility’s longevity speaks to its enduring role in the community, evolving alongside New Bedford’s changing demographics and economic landscape. Its passport services are especially crucial given the city’s strong ties to international fishing and trade, with many residents needing to travel for work or to visit family abroad. The post office also plays a key role in supporting local businesses, providing services for shipping goods and managing business correspondence. The New Bedford Main Post Office is more than just a place to mail letters; it is a community anchor, a historical landmark, and a vital resource for passport services in the Greater New Bedford area. The annual Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, New Bedford’s famed Portuguese Feast, held a short walk away each summer, sees an increase in passport applications as many residents look to visit family in Portugal. With its proximity to the District Courthouse and City Hall, the post office is frequently used by legal professionals and government employees, further underscoring its central role in the daily life of New Bedford. On any given weekday, you’ll find lines forming at the passport application windows, a testament to the constant demand for these services. The post office has adapted over the years, incorporating new technologies and services to meet the evolving needs of its customers, while still maintaining its commitment to providing reliable and accessible postal and passport services to the community. The revitalization efforts in downtown New Bedford, with new restaurants and businesses opening along Purchase Street and Union Street, have also increased foot traffic to the post office, making it a bustling hub of activity. The local residents often meet at the nearby Dunkin’ Donuts on Pleasant Street before heading to the post office for their scheduled appointments, highlighting the post office’s central role in their daily routines. The availability of passport services here helps to streamline the travel plans for many, who might otherwise need to travel to Fall River or Providence for these essential documents.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5089797420.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at NEW BEDFORD MAIN POST OFFICE at 695 PLEASANT STREET. Easy access from major highways.
Parking near the New Bedford Main Post Office can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Metered street parking is available on Pleasant Street directly in front of the building at $1.25 per hour, with a two-hour limit enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Alternatively, the Elm Street Garage, located just one block west of the post office at the corner of Elm and Acushnet Avenue, offers covered parking at a rate of $1.50 per hour or $8.00 for the full day. Free parking can be found on some of the side streets north of Elm Street, such as Kempton Street and Bush Street, but these spots are limited and often fill up quickly. For those with appointments, arriving 20-30 minutes early is recommended to allow time for finding parking. During the winter months, be aware that street parking can be affected by snow removal, and the sidewalks can be icy, so appropriate footwear is advised. During the summer, particularly during events like the Portuguese Feast, parking becomes even more scarce, and using public transportation or ride-sharing services might be a better option. The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center also offers parking for its events, but it is often pricier and only suitable if attending a show after your passport appointment. Consider that spaces directly in front of the post office on Pleasant Street are often used for quick drop-offs and pick-ups, making them less reliable for long-term parking during the passport application process.
The New Bedford Main Post Office is easily accessible by public transportation via the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) bus system. Bus routes 1, 4, 7, and 9 all have stops within a block of the post office on Pleasant Street and Elm Street. A single ride fare is $1.50, and a day pass costs $3.50, payable in cash or via the SRTA mobile app. The bus service operates every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends. For those coming from further afield, the New Bedford Bus Terminal is located approximately 0.7 miles south of the post office, near the waterfront. From the terminal, you can take the SRTA Route 4 directly to the post office. The terminal also provides connections to other regional bus services, including Peter Pan Bus Lines. Accessibility features on SRTA buses include wheelchair lifts and designated seating for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The post office itself is wheelchair accessible with ramps at the main entrance. The bus stops near the post office are equipped with shelters, providing protection from the elements. Walking from the New Bedford Bus Terminal to the post office takes approximately 15-20 minutes, following Elm Street or Pleasant Street north. The route is generally flat and well-paved, making it suitable for walking or using mobility devices. SRTA’s website provides real-time bus tracking and schedule information, helping to plan your trip efficiently. During peak hours, buses can become crowded, so allowing extra travel time is recommended. The post office’s location in the heart of downtown makes it a convenient and accessible destination for residents throughout the Greater New Bedford area.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the NEW BEDFORD MAIN POST OFFICE’s office at 695 PLEASANT STREET. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into NEW BEDFORD MAIN POST OFFICE (695 PLEASANT STREET) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5089797420.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
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.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
The passport application process at New Bedford Main Post Office starts at the customer service counter located on the main floor, accessible through the building’s main entrance on Pleasant Street. The entrance, marked by large glass doors and a ramp for accessibility, leads into a spacious lobby with high ceilings and classic postal service architecture. Upon entering, proceed to window number 3, specifically designated for passport appointments. Check in with the postal worker by presenting your appointment confirmation or explaining that you are a walk-in (though appointments are highly recommended). The typical passport appointment duration at New Bedford Main Post Office ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the complexity of the application and the volume of customers. The interior layout includes several rows of seating for those waiting, and informational posters outlining the necessary documents and fees are prominently displayed. The facility is wheelchair accessible, with ramps at the entrance and accessible restrooms available. Note that during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, lines can be longer, so arriving early for scheduled appointments is advisable. The passport photo service is located near window 4, should you need to utilize that service. The application process happens directly at the designated counter, with staff reviewing your documents, taking payment, and ensuring all forms are correctly filled out. The atmosphere is generally professional and efficient, with postal workers providing guidance and support to applicants throughout the process. Keep in mind that the interior can be quite warm during the summer months due to the building’s age, so dressing in light clothing is recommended.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at NEW BEDFORD MAIN POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.
While NEW BEDFORD MAIN POST OFFICE offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. NEW BEDFORD MAIN 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!”
“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.”
“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.”
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