Columbia Post Office Passport Services

Passport photos submitted at the Columbia Post Office, and indeed any passport acceptance facility nationwide, must adhere strictly to the 2×2 inch (5×5 cm) dimension requirement. The photo needs to be recent, taken within the last six months, clearly showing a full-front view of your face with a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile. It is imperative that the background is plain white or off-white, free from any patterns, shadows, or distracting objects. While the Columbia Post Office does offer on-site photo services for a fee, which guarantees compliance, if you bring your own, ensure it meets all these specifications to avoid delays in processing your application. The acceptance agent at Window 3 will meticulously check photo compliance during your appointment.

Yes, expedited passport service is absolutely available for applications submitted at the Columbia Post Office. When you complete Form DS-11, you will indicate your desire for expedited processing. This service typically incurs an additional fee of $60 per application, payable to the U.S. Department of State, on top of the standard application fees. The Post Office also charges a separate $35 execution fee, which is collected at the time of your appointment. Expedited service significantly reduces the waiting period for your passport, which is crucial for those with imminent travel plans. Be sure to clearly communicate your need for expedited service to the passport acceptance agent at Window 3 during your visit to ensure all necessary steps and fees are correctly processed.

As of November 2024, the routine processing time for a passport application submitted at the Columbia Post Office averages 7.2 weeks. For those opting for expedited service, the processing time is significantly reduced to an average of 2.5 weeks, not including mailing times. It’s always advisable to apply well in advance of any planned international travel, ideally at least three to four months prior, to account for any unforeseen delays. While the Post Office ensures your application is correctly submitted, the actual processing is handled by the National Passport Information Center. You can track the status of your application online via the Department of State’s website using the tracking number provided after your appointment.

Yes, both parents are strongly encouraged to apply together for a child’s passport at the Columbia Post Office, as this simplifies the process considerably. For any applicant under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child. Each parent must present a valid government-issued identification, along with the child’s proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or previous passport). If only one parent can attend the appointment, the absent parent must provide a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053), along with a copy of their valid ID (front and back). The passport acceptance agents at Window 3 are highly experienced in handling these specific requirements for minors, ensuring a smooth submission.

When submitting your passport application at the Columbia Post Office, you will encounter two separate fees. The application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by check or money order. They do not accept credit cards or cash for this portion. The $35 execution fee, however, which is collected by the Columbia Post Office for their service, can be paid using cash, check, money order, or a major credit card. This dual payment structure is standard across all passport acceptance facilities. Be prepared with both a check or money order for the State Department fee and your preferred method for the execution fee to ensure a seamless transaction during your appointment at Window 3.

The passport office is located at 800 COLUMBIA CENTER, COLUMBIA, IL 62236. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 6182815300.0 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 “COLUMBIA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Ample parking is readily available at the Columbia Post Office, ensuring a convenient experience for passport applicants. The facility boasts a dedicated 35-space free surface lot situated directly on the south side of the building, immediately adjacent to the main entrance. This lot provides direct, unimpeded access to the post office, eliminating long walks. During peak hours, typically between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays, this primary lot can approach full capacity, but spaces generally turn over quickly. For overflow, or if you prefer street parking, several free, unrestricted spots can often be found along Columbia Center Drive, directly in front of the building, or on the parallel Palmer Street, about a 0.1-mile walk east. While there are no large multi-story parking garages in this immediate vicinity of Columbia, the combination of the on-site lot and nearby street options usually suffices. For your appointment, planning to arrive 10-15 minutes early is a sound strategy, especially on a Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon when the office tends to be busiest. Seasonal considerations are also important; during the summer, the exposed asphalt lot can become quite hot, so consider parking closer to the building entrance. In winter, especially after a snowfall, specific attention is paid to plowing and salting the main lot, but exercise caution for potential icy patches in lesser-used areas.

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.