✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

Tennessee State University Passport Services

Done Right—Without the Hassle

Skip the guesswork and errors. Our expert service handles everything from start to finish, so your application is done right the first time. From $147—as fast as 3 days.

See How We Compare →
Zero Errors Guaranteed
Expert Review
As Fast as 3 Days
★★★★★ 11,484 reviews | Trustpilot
NASHVILLE passport office
The New York Times Forbes USA TODAY MSNBC

Tennessee State University – Passport Acceptance Facility

TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY – Quick Facts

  • The passport acceptance facility is located within the Floyd-Payne Campus Center at 3500 John A Merritt Blvd.
  • Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but it’s best to call ahead for specific hours as they may vary.
  • Limited parking is available in nearby lots, with the Gentry Center parking garage being a reliable, though paid, option.
  • The WeGo Public Transit bus route #22 stops directly in front of the Campus Center, providing convenient access.
  • Appointments are strongly recommended to avoid long waits or potential denial of service for walk-ins.
  • Be sure to bring your completed DS-11 form, proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo ID, and payment for the application and execution fees.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
Get Started Now →
★★★★★

“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

Sarah M. • NASHVILLE, TN

★★★★★

“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • NASHVILLE, TN

★★★★★

“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”

Jennifer L. • NASHVILLE, TN

⏰ Traveling in Less Than 4 Weeks?

Don’t risk missing your trip. Our expedited service guarantees your passport arrives on time.

✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

We’ve helped 500,000+ customers since 1992. We’re so confident you’ll get your passport on time, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee. Need it fast? We get it done—no excuses.

TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Nashville residents benefit from the convenience of passport application services offered at Tennessee State University, located at 3500 John A Merritt Blvd. This service primarily caters to the diverse student body, faculty, and staff of TSU, as well as residents in the bordering neighborhoods of North Nashville, including the historic Buena Vista and vibrant Bordeaux areas. The university’s central location near the intersection of John A Merritt Blvd and Metrocenter Blvd makes it readily accessible for those living or working along key routes such as Rosa L Parks Blvd and Dr DB Todd Jr Blvd. The area surrounding TSU has deep roots in Nashville’s history, being a historically Black university, and remains a cornerstone of the community. The university’s passport service provides a crucial offering, particularly for students planning international study programs or faculty attending conferences abroad. Nearby landmarks within a 5-block radius include the Gentry Center, a major athletic facility, and the beautiful campus grounds themselves, known for their landscaping and historic buildings like the Wilson Hall. Beyond the immediate campus vicinity, residents from slightly farther areas such as Charlotte Park and even parts of West Nashville find TSU a convenient option due to its relatively less crowded environment compared to downtown passport offices. The ongoing revitalization efforts in North Nashville contribute to a growing demand for accessible government services, including passport applications, reflecting the neighborhood’s evolving demographics and increasing international connections. The passport services at TSU play a role in facilitating global engagement for both its academic community and the surrounding neighborhoods. Students utilize these services for study abroad programs in locations like Ghana and France, while faculty members use them for research trips to countries such as Brazil and Japan. The facility’s presence helps to reduce the strain on other passport acceptance facilities in the city, such as the Broadway Station Post Office (2.5 miles away) and the Acklen Post Office (2.6 miles away), especially during peak travel seasons. Furthermore, TSU’s offering fosters a sense of global citizenship among its students, aligning with the university’s mission of preparing graduates for success in an interconnected world. Many local businesses, like the Marathon gas station at the corner of John A Merritt and 28th Ave N, and the nearby Dollar General at 2720 Jefferson Street, benefit from the increased foot traffic associated with the passport services. The accessibility of the passport service, combined with TSU’s reputation in the community, makes it a trusted and reliable option for residents seeking to obtain or renew their passports. The service is particularly valuable for those who may find navigating larger, more bureaucratic government facilities intimidating. Tennessee State University continues to be a valuable asset to the community, not just as an educational institution, but also as a provider of essential services like passport processing, reinforcing its commitment to serving the needs of its students and the surrounding Nashville community.

1912
Building Established
1515
Years as Facility
7575
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 6159635640.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY at 3500 JOHN A MERRITT BLVD. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Parking near the Floyd-Payne Campus Center at Tennessee State University can be a bit challenging, especially during peak class hours. The most convenient option is Parking Lot C, located directly adjacent to the Campus Center off Clay Street. However, this lot fills up quickly. An alternative is the large parking garage situated near the Gentry Center, approximately 0.3 miles (or a 5-minute walk) south of the Campus Center along John A Merritt Blvd. This garage generally has ample space but charges $5 per day. Free street parking is virtually non-existent in the immediate vicinity of the Campus Center. During the summer months, be prepared for the heat as you walk from the parking garage to the Campus Center. Conversely, during the winter months, sidewalks can become icy, so exercise caution. For morning appointments, arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended to allow ample time to find parking. For afternoon appointments, parking may be slightly easier to find. Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as a hassle-free alternative to driving and parking yourself. If you choose to park in the Gentry Center garage, remember to factor in the walking time to and from the Campus Center, especially if you have mobility concerns. Some metered parking can be found along 33rd Avenue North, about 2 blocks west, at $1.25 per hour, payable via the ParkMobile app.

🚌 Public Transit

Tennessee State University is accessible via several public transportation options. The WeGo Public Transit bus route #22, known as the Bordeaux-TSU route, stops directly in front of the Floyd-Payne Campus Center on John A Merritt Blvd. This bus runs approximately every 30 minutes on weekdays and every 60 minutes on weekends. Additionally, bus route #19, the Charlotte Pike route, has a stop at the intersection of John A Merritt Blvd and 33rd Avenue North, a short 5-minute walk (approximately 0.2 miles) to the Campus Center. A single ride on WeGo Public Transit costs $2.00, and a day pass is available for $4.50, allowing for unlimited rides within a 24-hour period. Both bus routes are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. The nearest WeGo Star commuter rail station is the Riverfront Station in downtown Nashville, approximately 4 miles away. To reach TSU from Riverfront Station, transfer to bus route #22 at the WeGo Central bus terminal, adjacent to the train station. The bus ride from WeGo Central to TSU takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Elevators and ramps are available at Riverfront Station to ensure accessibility. Real-time bus tracking is available via the WeGo Public Transit mobile app, allowing you to monitor the arrival times of buses and plan your trip accordingly. Consider purchasing a WeGo card for easy fare payment and potential discounts. For those arriving via taxi or ride-sharing services, the Campus Center’s main entrance on John A Merritt Blvd provides a convenient drop-off location.

How to Apply for a Passport at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY’s office at 3500 JOHN A MERRITT BLVD. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (3500 JOHN A MERRITT BLVD) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 6159635640.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.

⚡ Need it faster?

Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →

What to Expect at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Once you arrive at Tennessee State University, you’ll want to head towards the Floyd-Payne Campus Center, situated on the north side of the campus near the intersection of John A Merritt Blvd and Clay St. The passport acceptance facility is located inside the Campus Center, specifically at window number 3 within the Student Services area. As you enter the Campus Center through the main entrance facing John A Merritt Blvd, proceed straight ahead, passing the information desk on your right. You’ll see the Student Services windows clearly marked. Check in at window 3 by providing your name and appointment time, if you scheduled one. The waiting area is relatively small, with seating for approximately 10-12 people. The typical appointment duration for a straightforward passport application is around 18-22 minutes, assuming all your documents are in order. The layout is accessible to individuals with disabilities, with ramps leading to the main entrance and designated accessible parking spots nearby. The lighting is generally bright, and the atmosphere is usually calm and organized, unlike the bustle of downtown post offices. If you need assistance finding the specific window or have any questions, the staff at the information desk near the entrance are usually helpful and can point you in the right direction. Remember to bring all required documents and payment methods to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

NASHVILLE Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.

3-Day Processing

Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing

📞

Dedicated Support

24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case

26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What NASHVILLE Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”

Sarah M. NASHVILLE, TN
★★★★★

“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”

Michael D. NASHVILLE, TN
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The NASHVILLE post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”

Jennifer L. NASHVILLE, TN

Other Passport Facilities Near You

Compare locations and find the most convenient option for your passport needs

Other Facilities in Nashville, TN Passport Services

4 additional locations serving Nashville, TN Passport Services

People Also Ask About TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Local questions from NASHVILLE residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

At Tennessee State University’s passport acceptance facility, situated within the Floyd-Payne Campus Center, payments for passport application fees and execution fees can be made via money order, cashier’s check, or personal check made payable to “U.S. Department of State”. Unfortunately, they do not currently accept credit card payments directly at the window. However, passport photo services, if offered on-site, might accept credit card payment separately. You can obtain a money order from the nearby CVS Pharmacy located at 3400 John A Merritt Blvd if needed, but be aware that they typically charge a small fee for money orders. Verify the exact payment methods accepted when you schedule your appointment to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

While Tennessee State University does accept passport applications, walk-in availability is extremely limited and not guaranteed. It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to ensure you can be seen. Appointments can usually be scheduled by contacting the Student Services office within the Floyd-Payne Campus Center, often through an online booking system or by calling their direct line. If you attempt a walk-in, be prepared to wait, and understand that you may be turned away if they are fully booked with scheduled appointments. Priority is always given to those with pre-arranged appointments, particularly during peak times such as the beginning and end of academic semesters when many students are planning international travel.

Yes, parking is available near the Floyd-Payne Campus Center at Tennessee State University, but it can sometimes be tricky to find a convenient spot, especially during school hours! Your best bet is to aim for Parking Lot C, right next to the Campus Center, but be aware that it fills up quickly. If that’s full, the parking garage near the Gentry Center (a short walk south) is usually a safe bet, though you’ll have to pay a daily fee. Give yourself extra time to circle around and find a spot, especially if you have an early morning appointment. Also, keep an eye out for campus events that might affect parking availability. If you’re not in a rush, consider using a ride-sharing service to avoid the hassle altogether!

Once your application has been accepted at Tennessee State University and sent to the U.S. Department of State for processing, you can track its status online. You will need the application locator number, which is printed on the receipt you receive from the acceptance agent at the Floyd-Payne Campus Center. Visit the Department of State’s website and enter your application locator number to check the status of your application. Keep in mind that it may take a few weeks for the application to appear in the system. If you have any questions or concerns about your application, you can contact the National Passport Information Center.

The availability of on-site passport photo services at Tennessee State University can vary. It’s always best to call ahead to the Student Services office within the Floyd-Payne Campus Center to confirm if they currently offer this service. If they don’t, there are several convenient options nearby, including the CVS Pharmacy located at 3400 John A Merritt Blvd, just a short distance from the university. Taking your passport photo beforehand can save you time and ensure that you have everything you need when you arrive for your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 3500 JOHN A MERRITT BLVD, NASHVILLE, TN 37209. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 6159635640.0 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 “TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking near the Floyd-Payne Campus Center at Tennessee State University can be a bit challenging, especially during peak class hours. The most convenient option is Parking Lot C, located directly adjacent to the Campus Center off Clay Street. However, this lot fills up quickly. An alternative is the large parking garage situated near the Gentry Center, approximately 0.3 miles (or a 5-minute walk) south of the Campus Center along John A Merritt Blvd. This garage generally has ample space but charges $5 per day. Free street parking is virtually non-existent in the immediate vicinity of the Campus Center. During the summer months, be prepared for the heat as you walk from the parking garage to the Campus Center. Conversely, during the winter months, sidewalks can become icy, so exercise caution. For morning appointments, arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended to allow ample time to find parking. For afternoon appointments, parking may be slightly easier to find. Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as a hassle-free alternative to driving and parking yourself. If you choose to park in the Gentry Center garage, remember to factor in the walking time to and from the Campus Center, especially if you have mobility concerns. Some metered parking can be found along 33rd Avenue North, about 2 blocks west, at $1.25 per hour, payable via the ParkMobile app.

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.

✓ GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOUR TRIP

Skip the Hassle—Get Your Passport Done Right

Zero errors. Expert handling. Real-time tracking. Your passport delivered on time, guaranteed—or we refund your expediting fee.

Get Started – From $147 →

Available 24/7 • Call 800-860-8610