La Follette Post Office Passport Services

Yes, the La Follette Post Office offers convenient on-site passport photo services, which can save you an extra stop. While it’s always wise to call ahead to confirm staff availability for photos on a specific day, you can generally expect to get your required 2×2 inch, color photographs taken right here when you come for your application. This service ensures your photos meet all Department of State specifications for size, background, and facial expression, reducing the risk of application delays due due to non-compliant pictures. The cost for two passport-compliant photos at this facility is typically $15.00, payable at the time of service. Many residents appreciate this bundled service, streamlining the entire passport acquisition process in one visit to 1121 E Central Ave.

The La Follette Post Office generally operates with business hours conducive to local residents’ schedules, though passport acceptance service hours can sometimes differ slightly from general postal counter hours. For regular mail services, the lobby is typically open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. However, it’s critical to note that passport acceptance services, which require a trained agent, are usually available only during specific weekday windows. We strongly recommend calling the post office directly at their main number (which can be found on the USPS website) to confirm current passport appointment availability and hours of operation for that specific service, as these can vary due to staffing. Weekend passport services are rarely offered here.

The ability to renew your passport at the La Follette Post Office depends entirely on whether you are eligible to renew by mail. If your most recent passport was issued less than 15 years ago, you were at least 16 when it was issued, and it is undamaged, you will likely be able to renew by mail using Form DS-82. In such cases, you can simply mail your completed application, old passport, new photos, and payment directly to the Department of State via this post office’s mail services. If you do not meet these criteria, for example, if your passport is expired by more than 5 years, was damaged, or you were under 16 when it was issued, you will need to apply in person using Form DS-11. This scenario requires a scheduled appointment at the La Follette Post Office, where a passport acceptance agent will process your application as if it were a first-time application. They cannot directly renew an ineligible passport at the counter; they will accept your new application.

Passport photos must adhere to strict federal guidelines to be accepted with your application. Specifically, each photograph must be 2×2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size. They need to be in color, taken within the last six months, and printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper. Your head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. It’s crucial that the background is plain white or off-white, free of shadows or busy patterns. You should have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open. Wearing glasses is generally not permitted unless medically necessary. The La Follette Post Office’s photo service is well-versed in these requirements and can ensure your photos meet these specifications, preventing potential processing delays.

Yes, parking is readily available and typically quite convenient at the La Follette Post Office. The facility features a dedicated, free asphalt parking lot located immediately to the east of the building, directly off East Central Avenue. This lot offers between 25-30 spaces, including accessible options, ensuring that most visitors can find a spot without much difficulty, even during busier times. The lot is well-maintained and provides direct, level access to the post office entrance, minimizing any walking distance. For those few instances when the main lot is completely full, street parking along East Central Avenue or nearby side streets like North Indiana Avenue can often serve as an overflow option, usually within a block’s walk. The ease of parking here is a major benefit, making your visit for passport services as stress-free as possible.

The passport office is located at 1121 E CENTRAL AVE, LA FOLLETTE, TN 37766. Get directions

Hours are 10:00-15:00. Call ahead at 4235622431.0 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 “LA FOLLETTE POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking at the La Follette Post Office at 1121 E Central Avenue is relatively straightforward and generally free, which is a significant advantage in comparison to many urban facilities. The primary parking option is a dedicated asphalt lot immediately adjacent to the east side of the building, accessible directly from E Central Avenue. This lot provides approximately 25-30 striped spaces, including a couple of clearly marked handicap-accessible spots nearest the building entrance. During the busiest hours, typically between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekdays, this lot can approach full capacity. However, a consistent turnover of vehicles means a space usually becomes available within a few minutes. For those rare occasions when the main lot is full, supplementary street parking is often available along E Central Avenue itself, though it’s advised to check local signage for any restrictions, particularly during school pick-up or drop-off times given the proximity to local educational institutions. Alternatively, ample free parking can often be found along North Indiana Avenue, just one block west, requiring a short, flat walk of about 0.1 miles back to the post office. When visiting for a passport appointment, which typically lasts under half an hour, aiming for a slot in the mid-morning or late afternoon can help avoid the slight congestion seen around lunchtime. During summer months, be prepared for potentially hot asphalt and direct sunlight exposure in the lot; in winter, exercise caution for possible icy patches, especially after freezing rain events common to East Tennessee.

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.