How to Schedule a U.S. Passport Appointment in Los Angeles

Where to book your passport appointment in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has two locations where you can apply for or renew a U.S. passport in person: the Los Angeles Passport Agency (downtown) and the Santa Monica Post Office, which accepts passport applications. The Passport Agency handles new passports, renewals, corrections, and replacements. The Post Office handles routine renewals and new applications for first-time applicants, but cannot issue passports on the spot — you will wait for mail delivery.

The Passport Agency is at 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The Santa Monica Post Office is at 1248 5th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Both require you to book an appointment in advance; walk-ins are not accepted.

To book at either location, go to travel.state.gov and select "Schedule an Appointment." You will need to enter your zip code, choose the location, and pick from available dates and times. The system shows you openings weeks or months ahead depending on demand.

Key Takeaways

• Book your appointment at travel.state.gov; the Passport Agency and Santa Monica Post Office both require advance scheduling.
• The Passport Agency (downtown Los Angeles) issues passports the same day or within days; the Post Office mails yours after processing, which takes weeks.
• Bring your completed DS-11 form (new passport) or DS-82 form (renewal), a valid ID, proof of citizenship, and a passport photo.
• Processing times vary: same-day service at the Passport Agency costs extra, while routine service takes 6 to 8 weeks by mail.
• If you need your passport urgently, the Passport Agency offers expedited in-person service, but you must show proof of travel within 2 weeks.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring your completed passport application form. For a new passport, use Form DS-11. For a renewal by mail, use Form DS-82. For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged), use Form DS-11. You can fill these out before you arrive or at the location, but filling them ahead saves time.

You will also need proof of citizenship — an original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or previous passport. Bring a valid government-issued ID such as a driver's license or state ID. You cannot use an expired ID. Bring one passport photo, 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last 6 months. The photo must show your face straight-on, with a plain white or off-white background.

If you are renewing by mail through the Post Office, you do not need to appear in person if your passport is not damaged, lost, or stolen, and you still have it. In that case, you can mail your application instead. But if you are at the Post Office in person, bring the same documents listed above.

How long appointments take and when you get your passport

An appointment at the Passport Agency usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. You will be called by number, not by name. The actual processing — fingerprinting, photo verification, and document review — happens while you wait or shortly after.

How fast you receive your passport depends on the service level you choose. Routine service takes 6 to 8 weeks by mail. Expedited service takes 2 to 3 weeks and costs extra (currently $60 on top of the passport fee). Same-day service is available at the Passport Agency only if you are traveling within 2 weeks and can show proof — a plane ticket, hotel reservation, or cruise confirmation. Same-day service costs extra and you pick up your passport before you leave the office.

The Post Office does not offer same-day or expedited service. All applications go to the Passport Agency for processing, which means you wait for mail delivery no matter what.

Passport fees and payment methods

A new passport book costs $130 (adult) or $100 (minor under 16). A passport card (for land and sea travel only, not air travel) costs $35 (adult) or $20 (minor). A renewal costs $130 (adult) or $100 (minor). Expedited service adds $60. Same-day service adds $35 to $60 depending on the service level.

Both the Passport Agency and Post Office accept cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card. Bring exact change if you are paying cash, though most locations can make change. Do not mail cash.

What to expect when you arrive at your appointment

Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring all documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. Leave bags and large items at home if possible; security screening is faster with minimal belongings. You will go through a security checkpoint similar to airport screening.

Once you are called, a clerk will review your documents, take your photo if you did not bring one (though bringing your own is faster), and collect your payment. You will be fingerprinted. If everything is in order, you will be told when to expect your passport — either same-day if you paid for that service, or a mailing date if you chose routine or expedited.

If a document is missing or incorrect, the clerk will tell you what you need to fix. You may be able to correct it on the spot (for example, a form signature) or you may need to reschedule after getting the right document.

Booking tips and common delays

Book as far ahead as possible. Appointments at the Passport Agency fill up weeks in advance, especially in spring and summer. If you cannot find an opening, check back daily — cancellations open up regularly.

The most common reason for delays is a missing or incorrect document. Make sure your birth certificate is an official certified copy, not a photocopy. Make sure your ID is not expired. Make sure your passport photo meets the requirements — many people bring photos that are too old, too casual, or have the wrong background.

If you are a minor, a parent or legal guardian must appear with you. Bring the minor's birth certificate and the guardian's ID. If only one parent is present, bring a notarized consent form from the other parent (or a court order if custody is not shared).

Alternatives if the Passport Agency is fully booked

If the Los Angeles Passport Agency has no openings, try the Santa Monica Post Office. It often has earlier availability because fewer people know about it. Processing takes longer by mail, but if you are not in a rush, this is a valid option.

You can also travel to a different city's passport office if you are willing to make the trip. The nearest major offices are in San Diego and Las Vegas. Check travel.state.gov for their availability.

If you need your passport in the next 2 weeks and cannot get an appointment, call the Passport Agency at 1-877-487-2778. They have a limited number of emergency same-day slots for people with proof of imminent travel. This is not a may provide, but it is worth calling if your situation is urgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my passport by mail instead of going in person?

Yes, if your passport is not damaged, lost, or stolen, and you still have it. You can mail your application (Form DS-82) and documents to the address on the form. Processing takes 6 to 8 weeks. You do not need an appointment for mail renewal.

What if I lost my passport or it was stolen?

You must appear in person at the Passport Agency and file a report. Bring a police report if you have one. You will fill out Form DS-11 and pay for a replacement. You cannot renew by mail if your passport is lost or stolen.

Do I need an appointment if I am just getting a passport photo taken?

No. The Passport Agency and many Post Offices offer photo services without an appointment. You walk in, pay a small fee (usually $15 to $20), and get your photo printed. Some CVS and Walgreens locations also take passport photos.

What happens if I miss my appointment?

You lose your appointment slot. You will need to book a new one through travel.state.gov. If you know you cannot make it, cancel as soon as possible so someone else can use that time.

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

Yes, one person can accompany you, but only you will be called to the window. If you are a minor, a parent or guardian must be present. Leave children who are not applying at home if possible, as the wait can be long.