Ocracoke Post Office Passport Services

Yes, the Ocracoke Post Office offers convenient on-site passport photo services, a valuable amenity on an island where other photography options are scarce. This means you can complete your entire passport application process, from photographs to document submission, all in one visit to 1122 Irvine Garrish Highway. The postal clerks are trained to capture photos that meet the strict U.S. Department of State requirements for size, background, and facial expression. This service typically costs $15-$18, payable directly to USPS. Utilizing their photo service eliminates the need to travel off-island or search for a local photographer, saving you considerable time and effort, particularly beneficial during the peak tourist season when ferry schedules can be tight.

When applying for a passport at the Ocracoke Post Office, it’s crucial to understand the two separate payment components and their accepted methods. The first payment is the application fee for the U.S. Department of State, which covers the actual passport document itself. For this, you *must* use a personal check, certified check, or money order, made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” Cash, debit, or credit cards are not accepted for this portion. The second payment is the execution fee, which is collected by the Ocracoke Post Office for processing your application. This $35 fee can be paid using a debit card, a personal check, cash, or a money order, payable to “Postmaster.” They do not accept credit cards for the execution fee. Having both forms of payment prepared before your visit ensures a smooth and efficient application process.

Yes, securing an appointment is highly recommended, and often required, for all passport services at the Ocracoke Post Office to ensure prompt and dedicated assistance. While a small, rural post office might sometimes accommodate walk-ins during very slow periods, relying on this is not advised, especially given Ocracoke’s unique logistical challenges and the ferry-dependent travel for many. Scheduling ahead guarantees a specific time slot for your application, minimizing your wait and ensuring a trained passport agent is available. You can typically schedule an appointment by calling the Post Office directly during their operating hours. During the busy summer months (June-August), appointments can book up several days in advance, so plan accordingly to align with your travel schedule to the island.

U.S. passport photos must adhere to very specific dimensions and quality standards to be accepted. Each photo needs to be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) in size. Your head, from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, should measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm – 35 mm). The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and on a plain white or off-white background with no shadows. You should have a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile, with both eyes open. No hats, glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note), or uniforms are permitted. If you use the on-site photo service at the Ocracoke Post Office, the postal clerk will ensure these precise requirements are met, saving you the worry of a rejected photo.

Absolutely, parking is available at the Ocracoke Post Office, albeit on a scale appropriate for a remote island community. There’s a dedicated, free asphalt parking lot directly adjacent to the building at 1122 Irvine Garrish Highway, providing convenient access. This lot typically accommodates around 8-10 vehicles. In addition to the on-site spaces, ample free street parking can often be found along Irvine Garrish Highway, particularly slightly north or south of the immediate Post Office vicinity. While this might mean a short walk of one or two blocks, the island’s charm makes it a pleasant stroll, especially outside of peak summer heat. Even during the busiest times, a spot can usually be found within reasonable proximity, making your visit for passport services quite manageable.

The passport office is located at 1122 IRVINE GARRISH HIGHWAY, OCRACOKE, NC 27960. Get directions

Hours are 9:00-13:00, 15:00-16:00. Call ahead at 2529284771.0 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 “OCRACOKE POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the Ocracoke Post Office is relatively straightforward, though visitors should be mindful of the island’s seasonal rhythms. The facility at 1122 Irvine Garrish Highway provides a modest, free asphalt lot directly in front of the building, offering approximately 8-10 dedicated spaces for postal patrons. During the tranquil off-season months from October to April, securing a spot here is typically effortless. However, throughout the busy summer, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, these spaces can fill quickly, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when ferry arrivals and departures are most frequent. An excellent alternative is the readily available free street parking along Irvine Garrish Highway itself, particularly on the shoulder sections north and south of the Post Office building. Many visitors opt for this, parking within 1-2 blocks and enjoying a brief walk. For those with passport appointments, arriving 10-15 minutes prior is advisable to comfortably secure parking without rushing. It’s important to remember that Ocracoke experiences significant summer heat and humidity, so a shorter walk from a nearby street spot, such as those found near Lighthouse Road, can be preferable to a longer trek if the immediate lot is full. Conversely, during winter, the occasional brisk winds can make even a short walk feel longer, so aiming for the closest possible spot remains a good strategy.

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.