West Lake Station Post Office Passport Services

While the West Lake Station Post Office processes new passport applications, renewals are typically handled differently. You can renew your passport by mail if it meets certain criteria: your previous passport was issued within the last 15 years, you were over 16 when it was issued, and it’s not damaged. If you meet these requirements, you can download form DS-82 from the State Department’s website, complete it, and mail it along with your old passport, a new photo, and the appropriate fee ($130 as of November 2024) to the address specified on the form. If you don’t meet the renewal criteria or prefer in-person assistance, you’ll need to apply using form DS-11 at the West Lake Station Post Office or another authorized passport acceptance facility.

The West Lake Station Post Office generally operates from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, with reduced hours on Saturdays (typically 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM). However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the exact hours, especially for passport services, by calling them directly at (301) 365-4074 or checking the USPS website. Passport services may have slightly different hours than general postal services, and appointment times might be limited. Additionally, the post office is closed on Sundays and federal holidays, so plan your visit accordingly. Holiday hours can also vary, particularly around Christmas and Thanksgiving, so verifying their schedule is essential to avoid any inconvenience.

Yes, appointments are highly recommended for passport services at the West Lake Station Post Office. While walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability, securing an appointment guarantees that you’ll be seen and minimizes your wait time. You can schedule an appointment online through the USPS website or by calling the post office directly. It’s advisable to book your appointment well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and summer), as appointment slots tend to fill up quickly. If you’re unable to find an appointment at West Lake Station, consider checking availability at nearby post offices like the Ashton Post Office or the Beltsville Main Post Office. Showing up without an appointment greatly increases the chances that you will need to return another day.

Yes, the West Lake Station Post Office does offer passport photo services. This is a convenient option for applicants who want to take care of both the application and photo requirements in one visit. The cost for passport photos is typically around $15, but it’s always best to confirm the price with the post office directly. To ensure a smooth process, wear appropriate attire for your photo, avoiding white or light-colored clothing that might blend in with the background. If you wear glasses, be prepared to remove them for the photo. The staff will take your photo according to the State Department’s specifications, ensuring it meets all the necessary requirements for a valid passport. However, you can also bring your own passport photo if you prefer, as long as it adheres to the official guidelines.

Yes, as stated above, the West Lake Station Post Office is equipped to take your passport photo for you. If you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, having your photo taken right at the post office can save you a separate trip to a pharmacy or photo studio. Just be sure to check their current price for the service, as it’s subject to change. They use equipment to guarantee that the photos taken meet all the guidelines and rules of the Department of State. If you are unsure of the specific rules and regulations for passport photos, using the on-site service is the easy way to ensure your photos will work.

The passport office is located at 10421 MOTOR CITY DRIVE, BETHESDA, MD 20817. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 3017671742.0 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 “WEST LAKE STATION POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the West Lake Station Post Office is generally convenient, as it’s located within the Westlake Shopping Center which offers a free, shared parking lot. This lot has approximately 250 spaces available, but it can get crowded during peak shopping hours, especially on weekends and weekday evenings. However, during typical weekday appointment times (mornings and early afternoons), finding a spot shouldn’t be too difficult. If the main lot is full, additional parking can be found on the east side of the shopping center near Giant Food, which is only a short walk (about 0.1 miles) to the post office. There are no designated parking spots specifically for passport applicants, so arriving a few minutes early is always a good strategy to allow time to find a space. During the summer months, the asphalt parking lot can get quite hot, so consider wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water if you anticipate a longer wait. In winter, be cautious of potential ice patches, especially after snowfall. The shopping center management usually clears the snow promptly, but it’s always wise to exercise caution. Street parking is extremely limited in the immediate vicinity, so relying on the shopping center’s lot is the most practical option.

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.