Castalia Post Office Passport Services

Yes, securing an appointment is highly recommended for all passport services at the Castalia Post Office. While they strive to accommodate walk-ins when staffing permits, the dedicated passport acceptance agents often have scheduled slots that prioritize booked visitors. To ensure a smooth and timely experience without extended waits, especially considering the specific documentation review required for passport applications, it is always best to schedule your visit in advance. You can typically book an appointment online through the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or by calling the Post Office directly during their operating hours. Doing so guarantees that a trained agent will be available to assist you thoroughly with your DS-11 form and supporting documents, minimizing any potential for delays.

When applying for a passport for a minor (under age 16) at the Castalia Post Office, specific requirements apply to protect the child. Both parents or legal guardians must generally appear in person with the child. You’ll need to provide proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or previous passport) and proof of parental relationship (birth certificate or adoption decree). Additionally, each parent must present valid government-issued identification. If one parent is unavailable, specific notarized consent forms (DS-3053) or sole custody documents are required. The agents at the Castalia facility are adept at guiding parents through these nuanced requirements, ensuring all necessary paperwork for a minor’s application is correctly submitted during your scheduled visit.

Once your passport application is processed by the agent at the Castalia Post Office and mailed off, you’ll receive a tracking number or a receipt that includes your application locator number. You can use this locator number to track the status of your application directly through the U.S. Department of State’s official Passport Application Status website. It’s important to note that it might take 7 to 10 business days for your application status to appear online after the Castalia Post Office mails it, as it needs to be received and entered into the State Department’s system. Keep your receipt safe, as it contains critical information for monitoring your application’s progress from submission to delivery.

The cost of a U.S. passport depends on the type of service you require. For a routine passport book application for an adult, the fee is typically $130 payable to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order. There’s also a separate $35 acceptance fee for the Castalia Post Office, payable directly to the USPS, which can be paid by check, money order, or credit/debit card. Expedited processing adds an extra $60. If you need a passport card in addition to or instead of a book, that’s an additional fee. The Castalia agents can provide a detailed breakdown of all current fees during your appointment, ensuring you have the correct payment methods and amounts ready for your application.

While the Castalia Post Office strongly advises scheduling an appointment for passport services to minimize wait times and ensure agent availability, they do occasionally accept walk-in applicants if their schedule permits. However, this is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be guaranteed. Walk-ins are most likely to be accommodated during less busy periods, typically mid-morning or late afternoon on weekdays. For a guaranteed and efficient experience, especially considering the specific preparation required for passport applications, booking an appointment online or via phone is always the most reliable approach. Arriving without an appointment runs the risk of a significant wait or being asked to return at a later time, or even on a different day, should the passport agent be occupied with scheduled appointments.

The passport office is located at 105 N. WATER ST., CASTALIA, OH 44824. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 4196845977.0 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 “CASTALIA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

For those driving to the Castalia Post Office, parking is remarkably straightforward and free of charge, a significant advantage compared to more congested urban centers. Directly adjacent to the facility at 105 N. Water Street, you’ll find a dedicated, paved parking lot offering approximately 15 to 20 spaces. This lot is rarely full, even during peak postal hours, providing ample room for passport applicants. For any overflow, additional free street parking is readily available along N. Water Street itself, both north and south of the Post Office, typically with no time restrictions. You can also find parallel parking spaces on Lucas Street, just one block east, which offers an easy 2-minute walk back to the Post Office entrance. During your appointment, parking directly in the Post Office lot is the most convenient strategy. Given Castalia’s generally quiet pace, you won’t have to contend with parking meters or complex garage systems. When considering seasonal conditions, winter months might bring snow and ice, so allocating an extra few minutes to safely navigate sidewalks or clear off your vehicle is advisable. In the warmer summer months, while the walk from street parking is short, remembering to lock your vehicle and secure valuables is always prudent, though the area is known for its low crime rate. The facility’s accessibility makes parking a stress-free component of your passport application process.

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.