Gahanna Post Office Passport Services

At the Gahanna Post Office, passport application fees are split into two distinct payments. The passport book or card fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by personal check, certified check, cashier’s check, or money order. They do not accept cash or credit cards for this portion. For the mandatory $35 execution fee, paid to the Gahanna Post Office itself, you have a few more options: personal check, money order, debit card, or a major credit card like Visa or MasterCard are all accepted. Please ensure you have the exact payment methods prepared before your appointment to avoid delays. Remember, two separate payments mean two separate transactions for state and facility fees.

After successfully submitting your passport application at the Gahanna Post Office, you will be able to track its progress directly through the U.S. Department of State’s online passport status system. Approximately 7-10 business days after your appointment, your application details should become available. You’ll need the last name of the applicant, their date of birth, and the last four digits of their Social Security Number to access the status. The Gahanna Post Office itself does not provide tracking updates beyond confirming the initial submission; all subsequent inquiries should be directed to the State Department’s online portal or their national passport information center. This system will inform you if your application is ‘In Process,’ ‘Approved,’ or ‘Mailed,’ providing transparency throughout the federal processing timeline.

To ensure a smooth passport application process at the Gahanna Post Office, it’s crucial to arrive with all required documents meticulously prepared. You will need proof of U.S. citizenship, which typically means your original birth certificate (issued by the city, county, or state of birth, not the hospital) or your previous, undamaged U.S. passport. Additionally, bring valid government-issued identification, such as your Ohio driver’s license or state ID card, and a clear photocopy of both the front and back of this ID. A completed, but UNSIGNED, DS-11 Passport Application form is essential. Don’t sign it until instructed by the acceptance agent. Finally, one recent, color passport photo (2×2 inches) taken within the last six months is required, and yes, photos can be taken on-site at this Gahanna location.

Passport photos for submission at the Gahanna Post Office, and indeed for any U.S. passport application, must strictly adhere to specific federal guidelines. The photo needs to be a standard 2×2 inch square, taken in color, and against a plain white or off-white background. Your head should be centered and fill between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. It must be a recent photograph, taken within the last six months, accurately reflecting your current appearance. Please ensure you have a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile, with both eyes open. Avoid wearing glasses, hats, or anything that obstructs your face, unless for medical or religious reasons with a signed statement. The Gahanna Post Office does offer on-site photo services if you prefer to have them taken professionally and correctly here.

Yes, the Gahanna Post Office does indeed provide convenient on-site passport photo services. This is a significant advantage for applicants, as it eliminates the need to visit a separate location and ensures your photos meet all strict U.S. Department of State requirements. For a fee of $15.00 per applicant, a trained postal employee will take your picture, ensuring it’s the correct 2×2 inch size, with the appropriate background, lighting, and facial expression. This service is particularly helpful for those who might be unsure about photo specifications or are short on time before their appointment. You can have your photos taken immediately before or after your passport application submission, making the entire process more streamlined and efficient right here on Lincoln Circle.

The passport office is located at 246 H LINCOLN CIRCLE, GAHANNA, OH 43230. Get directions

Hours are 10:00-15:30. Call ahead at 6144760696.0 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 “GAHANNA POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Gahanna Post Office is straightforward and generally stress-free, a significant advantage for those attending passport appointments. The facility boasts a dedicated, free parking lot located immediately adjacent to the building, directly off Lincoln Circle. This paved lot provides approximately 35 clearly marked spaces, including two accessible spots situated closest to the main entrance. You’ll find the entrance to the lot on the north side of the building, easily visible as you approach from Granville Street. For optimal convenience, especially during peak service hours (Tuesdays and Thursdays mid-morning), arriving 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment is advisable to secure a prime spot. While the lot rarely fills completely, arriving early ensures you avoid any unnecessary stress. There are no metered parking options on Lincoln Circle itself, and the surrounding streets, primarily residential, also offer limited, unrestricted street parking further out, but the on-site lot is overwhelmingly the best choice. During winter months, the lot is routinely plowed and salted, but watch for potential icy patches near the entrance ramp. In summer, shaded spots are minimal, so prepare for direct sun exposure if your appointment is mid-day.

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.