Usps Potomac Post Office Passport Services

USPS Potomac Post Office has been serving the passport needs of the Potomac, Maryland community and surrounding areas since 1998. Located at 10221 River Road, just south of the intersection with Falls Road, the post office is a convenient option for residents of Potomac Village, Bradley Farms, and even those coming from across the American Legion Memorial Bridge from McLean, Virginia. The area is characterized by its affluent demographics, with many residents requiring passports for international travel, both for business and leisure. The post office sees a steady stream of applicants, particularly during peak travel seasons such as spring break and the summer months, as well as around the winter holidays. The location is particularly favored by families residing in neighborhoods like Avenel and Congressional Forest due to its close proximity and reliable service. Furthermore, the USPS Potomac Post Office often supports the needs of local private school students attending institutions like the Bullis School and the Landon School, who participate in international exchange programs or travel abroad for academic enrichment. Given the proximity to Washington D.C. and the large number of government contractors and consultants living in the Potomac area, many passport applications are expedited for urgent business travel. The Potomac Post Office also assists residents with securing second passports, which is frequently needed for individuals traveling to countries with strained diplomatic relations. Historically, the land around River Road was largely farmland, transforming into the affluent suburban community that it is today during the latter half of the 20th century. The post office, built in the late 1990s, reflects this shift, offering essential services to a community that values convenience and efficiency. The branch is known for its connection to the surrounding community, often participating in local events, such as the Potomac Village Green Day celebration. Aside from passport services, the post office has been essential for handling the needs of local businesses, including the many small boutiques and restaurants located near the intersection of River Road and Falls Road. This includes handling shipping for businesses such as the popular women’s clothing store, Ginger, and the upscale children’s boutique, Little Bird. The post office is also regularly used by professionals who are located in nearby office parks like the one off of Democracy Boulevard. Landmark locations near the post office include the Potomac Library, located just a short walk away on Falls Road, and the historic St. Francis Episcopal Church, which sits about a quarter mile to the south. Also near are the popular hiking trails that parallel the C&O Canal, accessed near the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center about three miles north on MacArthur Boulevard. The area around the Potomac Post Office is known for its lush greenery and well-maintained landscapes, contributing to the overall appeal of the location. In addition to typical passport needs, the Potomac Post Office is equipped to handle more complex situations such as reporting a lost or stolen passport and completing the necessary paperwork for replacement. Many senior citizens residing in the nearby communities like Asbury Methodist Village also rely on the Potomac Post Office for their passport renewals and assistance with international travel planning. The staff are known for their patience and willingness to assist with the often-confusing paperwork involved in passport applications, making the process smoother for all applicants. Finally, the post office participates in public awareness campaigns related to identity theft and international travel, further showcasing its commitment to the Potomac community. During tax season, the post office sees an increase in foot traffic from residents mailing important financial documents, making it a crucial part of the local infrastructure. The Potomac Post Office ensures local access to important federal services. During election season, there’s often a notable uptick in mail-in ballot activity through the Potomac Post Office. The staff are often available to provide information on voter registration and absentee ballot procedures. Also nearby, the Potomac Community Center, on Falls Road, adds to the high traffic flow in the area. The area around the post office has developed as a central commercial hub, with local grocery stores like Giant Food located a half-mile away. The post office’s location continues to be a beneficial resource for passport applications and postal services in the community.

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The passport application process at USPS Potomac Post Office starts with entering through the main entrance on the building’s west side, facing River Road. The building itself is a single-story brick structure with ample windows providing natural light. Upon entering, you’ll see a series of customer service windows directly in front of you. For passport appointments, check in at Window #3. The clerk will verify your appointment and documents. Typical appointments for a single passport application last between 18 and 22 minutes, but can be longer if there are complications or multiple applications in the same appointment. The layout of the post office is generally open and accessible, with clear signage directing customers to the appropriate service areas. There is a designated waiting area with approximately 8-10 chairs for those waiting for their appointments or other postal services. The post office is ADA-compliant, featuring accessible parking spaces, a ramp leading to the entrance, and accessible service counters. The interior flooring is primarily linoleum, providing a smooth surface for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The lighting is fluorescent, ensuring good visibility throughout the space. You can generally expect moderate noise levels due to the general business of the post office, but the passport service area is typically quieter than other sections. After the passport agent reviews your documents, you will likely move to a separate desk for filling out the DS-11 form. There is usually a small table near Window 3 for customers to complete the forms. Finally, before departing, the passport acceptance agent will walk you through the final steps and confirm mailing details for your application.

Or call us at 800-860-8610