North Wilkesboro Post Office Passport Services

If your child, defined as anyone under 16, needs a passport, both parents or legal guardians must appear with the child at the North Wilkesboro Post Office. You’ll need to bring proof of U.S. citizenship for the child, such as an original birth certificate, along with proof of parental relationship (like the birth certificate again). Additionally, valid government-issued identification for both parents, such as a North Carolina driver’s license, is required. If only one parent can attend, the non-appearing parent must provide a notarized consent form (Form DS-3053). The passport agents at 300 8TH ST are highly experienced with minor applications and can guide you through each specific requirement, ensuring all necessary documentation is correctly presented for your child’s application.

For a smooth application process at the North Wilkesboro Post Office, ensure you have three primary categories of documents. First, proof of U.S. citizenship, which for most first-time applicants is their original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged passport. Second, proof of identity, typically a valid, unexpired government-issued identification like a North Carolina driver’s license or state ID card. Third, a recent color passport photo that meets federal guidelines (2×2 inches, white background, no glasses). While the Post Office can take photos on-site for a fee of $18, having one ready can expedite your visit. Remember to bring photocopies of both sides of your citizenship and identity documents, as these will be submitted with your application.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all passport services involving minors at the North Wilkesboro Post Office. Due to the stringent requirements for child passport applications, including the mandatory presence of both parents or guardians (or specific notarized consent if one cannot attend), these appointments often require more dedicated time from the passport acceptance agent. Scheduling in advance ensures that a trained agent is available to thoroughly review all documents for the child and parents, administer oaths, and collect payment without rushing. While the Post Office at 300 8TH ST always strives for efficiency, walk-in services for minors are rarely feasible given the complexities, so booking ahead by calling the facility or using the online scheduling tool is the most practical advice for Wilkes County families.

If you require your passport urgently, the North Wilkesboro Post Office can facilitate expedited processing, but there are specific steps and associated costs. When you submit your application at 300 8TH ST, inform the acceptance agent that you need expedited service. This involves an additional fee of $60 per application, which is paid directly to the Department of State. You can also opt for 1-2 day delivery for the return of your completed passport book for an extra $19.53. As of November 2024, expedited processing averages 2.5 weeks, though this can fluctuate. For truly emergent situations, such as documented life-or-death emergencies or imminent international travel within 14 days, you would need to contact the National Passport Information Center or visit a regional passport agency, typically in Charlotte, as the North Wilkesboro Post Office cannot issue same-day passports.

Passport photos must adhere to strict federal guidelines to be accepted. For applications at the North Wilkesboro Post Office, your photo needs to be 2×2 inches in size, taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance, and in color with a plain white or off-white background. You must face the camera directly with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, with both eyes open. Glasses are no longer permitted unless medically necessary, and head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons with a signed statement. The Post Office at 300 8TH ST offers on-site photo services for $18, ensuring your photos meet all these specifications and avoid common rejection issues, providing convenience and peace of mind for applicants from Wilkesboro and beyond.

The passport office is located at 300 8TH ST, NORTH WILKESBORO, NC 28659. Get directions

Hours are 9:00-15:00. Call ahead at 3366677121.0 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 “NORTH WILKESBORO POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking around the North Wilkesboro Post Office at 300 8TH ST is generally convenient, especially for those visiting for a scheduled passport appointment. The most direct option is the dedicated, free customer parking lot immediately adjacent to the building’s east side, accessible via 8th Street. This lot offers approximately 15-20 spaces, which are typically available during non-peak hours (late morning and mid-afternoon). For periods when the dedicated lot might be full, ample free on-street parking is usually found along 8th Street itself, directly in front of the Post Office, or along D Street, just one block east. These street spots have a generous two-hour limit, more than enough time for any passport service appointment. Additionally, there’s a larger municipal parking lot located at the intersection of Main Street and 5th Street, about three blocks southwest (approximately a 0.3-mile walk), which provides extended free parking. During winter months, particularly after snow or ice, it’s advisable to arrive slightly earlier to account for potentially fewer available cleared spaces, especially on side streets. In the summer, shaded spots near the Post Office lot’s perimeter are highly sought after to keep car interiors cooler. Given the typical 18-22 minute appointment duration, even a spot two blocks away on 7th Street or along Wilkesboro Avenue remains a negligible walk.

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.