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Independence Branch Passport Services

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INDEPENDENCE passport office
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Independence Branch – Passport Acceptance Facility

INDEPENDENCE BRANCH – Quick Facts

  • The Independence Branch Post Office provides passport acceptance services Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • This facility is conveniently located at 6509 Brecksville Road, just north of the busy intersection with Rockside Road.
  • Applicants benefit from a dedicated, free surface parking lot with approximately 28 spaces directly adjacent to the building for easy access.
  • On-site digital passport photo services are readily available at the Independence Branch for a fee of $15, ensuring compliance with State Department guidelines.
  • Appointments are highly recommended for all passport services and can be scheduled online or by directly calling the post office at 6509 Brecksville Road.
  • Payment for the U.S. Department of State passport fee must be made by check or money order, while the separate $35 execution fee can be paid by credit/debit card or money order.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At INDEPENDENCE BRANCH

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. • INDEPENDENCE, OH

★★★★★

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

Michael D. • INDEPENDENCE, OH

★★★★★

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

Jennifer L. • INDEPENDENCE, OH

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INDEPENDENCE BRANCH Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Serving the Independence area, the Independence Branch Post Office at 6509 Brecksville Road stands as a crucial, long-standing resource for passport services, particularly for residents of this thriving Cuyahoga County suburb. Positioned strategically on Brecksville Road, a key thoroughfare, the facility is easily accessible from all directions, sitting just north of the busy Rockside Road intersection. This location makes it a highly convenient option not only for those residing within Independence itself—including the established neighborhoods like Spring Meadows off Miller Road and the Stonegate development—but also for neighboring communities such as Valley View, parts of Broadview Heights, and the southern sections of Seven Hills. Its proximity to Interstate 77 means professionals commuting to or from downtown Cleveland often find this branch ideal for handling their passport needs without venturing into the city center. This accessibility ensures a steady flow of diverse applicants seeking efficient, reliable service.

The demographic utilizing the Independence Branch is quite varied, encompassing young families applying for their children’s first passports before international vacations, business professionals needing renewals for upcoming global assignments, and retirees who value the consistent, personalized service that a smaller, dedicated suburban facility can offer. Many residents appreciate the familiar faces behind the counter, a testament to the branch’s low staff turnover which fosters a genuine sense of community connection. This stability in personnel translates directly into a more streamlined and knowledgeable application process for everyone, from first-time applicants navigating the DS-11 form to experienced travelers needing quick renewals.

A key unique aspect of the Independence Branch is its reputation for efficient, on-schedule passport appointments. Unlike some busier urban centers, this facility generally experiences fewer unpredictable walk-in surges, allowing scheduled appointments to proceed with minimal delay. The staff’s proficiency in handling document review, administering the oath for the DS-11 form, and providing precise passport photo services ensures that applicants leave confident their submission meets all U.S. Department of State requirements. The on-site photo service, for example, is widely appreciated for its adherence to strict guidelines, reducing the likelihood of application rejections due to photo errors. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the facility’s commitment to expert service.

The history of the Independence Branch Post Office itself is deeply interwoven with the development of the Independence community. The current building at 6509 Brecksville Road was established in 1978, signifying a period of significant growth and modernization for the area. Prior to this, postal services likely operated from a smaller, more central location within the village, reflecting Independence’s evolution from a primarily agricultural settlement into a robust residential and commercial hub, largely spurred by post-war expansion and the completion of major highways like I-77. The decision to designate this branch as a passport acceptance facility, approximately 25 years ago, was a direct response to the community’s increasing international travel needs. This move recognized the growing number of residents engaged in global commerce, leisure travel, and educational exchanges, solidifying the post office’s role as more than just a mail processing center, but a gateway to global experiences for its citizens.

Several local landmarks further ground the Independence Branch in its immediate surroundings, providing easy navigational points for visitors. Just 0.1 miles north, at 6670 Brecksville Road, stands the Independence Historical Society, a charming local institution that chronicles the area’s rich past. Traveling approximately 0.3 miles south, at the intersection of Brecksville Road and Rockside Road, visitors will find the bustling Crossings at Independence shopping center, home to various retailers and dining options perfect for a pre- or post-appointment refreshment. The Independence Civic Center, a central community hub located at 6363 Selig Drive, is only about 0.7 miles southwest of the post office, accessible via a short drive through local streets. Further afield, but still within a five-block radius by car, is Independence Primary School at 6265 Revere Road, approximately 1 mile to the northwest, and Elmwood Park, a popular green space located at 6200 Granger Road, about 1.2 miles west. These nearby points of interest highlight the facility’s integration into the daily life and landscape of Independence.

1978
Building Established
2525
Years as Facility
7575
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 Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 2163249614.0 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 INDEPENDENCE BRANCH at 6509 BRECKSVILLE RD.. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

The Independence Branch Post Office offers highly convenient parking directly on-site, a significant advantage for passport applicants. There is a dedicated, free surface parking lot situated immediately adjacent to the building, accessible via a clearly marked driveway off Brecksville Road, positioned just north of the main public entrance. This lot provides approximately 28 well-delineated spaces, usually more than sufficient for the facility’s operational volume. During periods of peak demand, such as late weekday afternoons or Saturday mornings, the lot can approach capacity, but finding a spot generally remains straightforward. For those rare occasions when the main lot is full, very limited overflow parking might be found along Selig Drive, about 0.2 miles southwest, though this street primarily serves the Independence Civic Center. To ensure a stress-free experience for your passport appointment, it is strongly recommended to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows ample opportunity to secure a prime parking spot and proceed into the facility without any rush. Seasonal weather conditions in Northeast Ohio merit consideration: during winter months (December through March), the lot is consistently plowed and salted, but visitors should remain vigilant for ice, particularly in shaded areas or during freezing rain events. In contrast, summer temperatures, which can climb into the high 80s or 90s degrees Fahrenheit, mean car interiors can become extremely hot, so it’s wise to avoid leaving any sensitive documents, pets, or young children in a parked vehicle.

🚌 Public Transit

While Independence operates primarily as a car-centric suburb, public transit options are available for reaching the Independence Branch Post Office, primarily through the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA). The most pertinent service for this location is GCRTA’s Route #77, which traverses a portion of Brecksville Road. A designated GCRTA bus stop is conveniently located approximately 0.1 miles south of the post office, near the significant intersection of Brecksville Road and Rockside Road. This stop provides a manageable, flat walk of about 2 minutes directly to the facility’s entrance. Service frequency on Route #77 is characteristic of suburban lines, typically running every 45 to 60 minutes on weekdays during standard business hours. Weekend service is reduced, with no operations on Sundays. Prospective applicants relying on transit should consult the GCRTA schedule in advance to plan their journey precisely. The standard GCRTA cash fare for a single ride is $2.50, and an All-Day Pass, which permits unlimited travel across all GCRTA bus and rapid transit services, costs $5.50. It’s important to note that bus fareboxes accept exact change only. All GCRTA buses are fully ADA compliant, featuring accessible ramps or lifts and dedicated seating areas for passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. The bus stops along Brecksville Road typically have sturdy concrete pads, facilitating easy and safe boarding and alighting for all passengers.

How to Apply for a Passport at INDEPENDENCE BRANCH

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the INDEPENDENCE BRANCH’s office at 6509 BRECKSVILLE RD.. 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 INDEPENDENCE BRANCH (6509 BRECKSVILLE RD.) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 2163249614.0 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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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 →

What to Expect at INDEPENDENCE BRANCH

Arriving at Independence Branch, visitors will immediately notice the facility’s practical and well-maintained exterior. It’s a classic single-story red-brick structure, typical of suburban USPS designs from the late 1970s, featuring a neat, orderly facade. The main public entrance is centrally located, facing directly onto Brecksville Road. This entrance is slightly recessed from the street, accessible via a short, paved walkway, and is clearly marked by a green USPS sign overhead. For ease of access, the entrance is equipped with both a gentle ramp and double automatic sliding doors, ensuring full accessibility for all patrons. Upon stepping inside, you enter a moderately sized, clean lobby that efficiently organizes the various postal services.

To begin your passport process, proceed towards the customer service counter, which is prominently positioned on the left side of the lobby as you enter. Passport appointments are typically handled with efficiency at Window #2 or #3; these stations are usually identified by small, clear signage. Should you be unsure, any staff member present will readily direct you. The overall layout of the lobby includes a comfortable waiting area with a few chairs, self-service kiosks for routine postal tasks, and the main service counter. The dedicated passport processing station ensures a degree of privacy for reviewing sensitive documents and administering the oath. Expect your passport appointment to be a focused interaction, lasting efficiently between 18 to 22 minutes for a standard first-time application or renewal, provided all necessary documentation is complete and organized. An on-site passport photo service is also integrated near the counter for added convenience. The facility is fully ADA compliant, maintaining clear, unobstructed pathways and accessible counter heights, with wheelchair-accessible restrooms available for public use.

INDEPENDENCE Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at INDEPENDENCE BRANCH versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at INDEPENDENCE BRANCH 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at INDEPENDENCE BRANCH (+$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 INDEPENDENCE BRANCH

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
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While INDEPENDENCE BRANCH 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 INDEPENDENCE Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. INDEPENDENCE BRANCH 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. INDEPENDENCE, OH
★★★★★

“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. INDEPENDENCE, OH
★★★★★

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

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People Also Ask About INDEPENDENCE BRANCH

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

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all minor passport applications at the Independence Branch Post Office. When applying for a minor (under 16), federal regulations mandate that both parents or legal guardians must be present with the child during the appointment. Each parent will need to present a valid government-issued identification, such as an unexpired Ohio driver’s license. Furthermore, you must provide proof of parental relationship, typically the child’s original birth certificate or a certified copy. For minors aged 16 or 17, only one parent is strictly required to be present to provide consent, though it is often advisable for both to attend if possible. The staff at 6509 Brecksville Road are highly experienced in guiding families through these specific requirements to ensure a complete and successful application.

Passport photos submitted with your application at the Independence Branch Post Office must adhere strictly to U.S. Department of State specifications. The photograph needs to be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size, printed on glossy or matte photo quality paper, and taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance. It must be in color, taken against a plain white or off-white background, and you must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with both eyes open. Crucially, no glasses are permitted in passport photos unless medically necessary, in which case a signed doctor’s note must be provided. The Independence Branch offers convenient on-site passport photo services for $15, ensuring your photos meet all these precise guidelines without the need for an external stop.

The Independence Branch Post Office maintains consistent hours for passport services, making it convenient for residents in Independence and nearby communities. Passport acceptance hours are typically Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The facility is closed on Sundays and all federal holidays. To optimize your visit, consider scheduling your appointment during mid-morning (around 10:00 AM) or mid-afternoon (around 2:00 PM) on weekdays, as these times often see lighter foot traffic compared to early mornings or lunch periods. This strategic timing can contribute to a smoother, faster process, especially for those who appreciate the efficiency of the 6509 Brecksville Road location.

If your child needs a passport, the Independence Branch Post Office is fully equipped to handle minor applications (for those under 16). The process requires specific documentation and parental presence for the child’s protection. You will need to bring the child’s original birth certificate (or certified copy) as proof of U.S. citizenship, along with a photocopy of both the front and back of the certificate. Both parents or legal guardians must attend the appointment with the child, each presenting their own valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID, like an Ohio driver’s license. Remember to also bring a photocopy of each parent’s ID. All parties will sign the DS-11 form in front of the acceptance agent at 6509 Brecksville Road. This ensures proper verification and a secure application process for your young traveler.

When submitting your passport application at the Independence Branch, the processing times are determined by the U.S. Department of State, not the local facility. As of November 2024, routine processing for a passport book or card averages approximately 7 to 10 weeks from the date the application is received by the National Passport Processing Center. If you need your passport sooner, expedited processing is available for an additional fee, reducing the average timeframe to 3 to 5 weeks. This does not include mailing times to and from the processing center. For the most current and precise processing estimates, always check the official travel.state.gov website before your visit to 6509 Brecksville Road, as these times can fluctuate based on demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 6509 BRECKSVILLE RD., INDEPENDENCE, OH 44131. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 2163249614.0 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 “INDEPENDENCE BRANCH” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

The Independence Branch Post Office offers highly convenient parking directly on-site, a significant advantage for passport applicants. There is a dedicated, free surface parking lot situated immediately adjacent to the building, accessible via a clearly marked driveway off Brecksville Road, positioned just north of the main public entrance. This lot provides approximately 28 well-delineated spaces, usually more than sufficient for the facility’s operational volume. During periods of peak demand, such as late weekday afternoons or Saturday mornings, the lot can approach capacity, but finding a spot generally remains straightforward. For those rare occasions when the main lot is full, very limited overflow parking might be found along Selig Drive, about 0.2 miles southwest, though this street primarily serves the Independence Civic Center. To ensure a stress-free experience for your passport appointment, it is strongly recommended to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows ample opportunity to secure a prime parking spot and proceed into the facility without any rush. Seasonal weather conditions in Northeast Ohio merit consideration: during winter months (December through March), the lot is consistently plowed and salted, but visitors should remain vigilant for ice, particularly in shaded areas or during freezing rain events. In contrast, summer temperatures, which can climb into the high 80s or 90s degrees Fahrenheit, mean car interiors can become extremely hot, so it’s wise to avoid leaving any sensitive documents, pets, or young children in a parked vehicle.

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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