If you're in VA, the Bailey's Crossroads post office actually answers its phone. Our local post office told DH (in all seriousness) when he showed up in person to make an appointment that they don't answer their phone because they're too busy. The main post office in Fairfax will eventually answer its phone, if you try long enough (the phone tree will otherwise take you to a full voicemail box and then disconnect you).

If you're planning to travel this summer, take care of it now - many post offices have long waits for appointments. Or like a PP mentioned, any chance you'll be out of town anytime soon? Post offices in other states seem to have less demand for passport services and will do walk-ins (just remember you child's birth certificate and SSN).

I was in SC for vacation so called the local PO there. someone picked up the phone on the first ring and I had an apt for the next day. Walked in with DC and seen immediately. Much easier than doing it here. Wish the website listed the places that had walk in hours. Very frustrating.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I eventualled googled the head of the DC area post offices, got his email address, and emailed him directly c.c.ing my congressman. He replied giving me a number to call which someone actually answered, so I was able to make an appointment.

I would totally do that, if I had a congressperson.

Don't suppose you want to share the magic number??

I did on a previous thread a few months ago - have lost it myself now but if you google it you will find it. It was for the bethesda office.

Anonymous wrote:I don't recall making an appointment at the PO. Just showed up on a Saturday.

You were either lucky or....lucky then.
Most appts. now, although some as mentioned have specific walk-in days.
We made an appt. in the one behind Montgomery Mall. (Someone answered the phone there as did the one in Kensington)

Where are you? We couldn't get any DC post offices to answer the phone, but we made appointments easily at the Bethesda post office on Wisconsin Avenue a few blocks from the metro stop. They were very efficient. Good luck!

Post office in Twinbrook was fast and efficient. It isn't that close to me but worth it (had 3 people helping out)and I believe DCs passports came back in mail in like 2 week. It was so easy took about 15 minutes.

I don't recall making an appointment at the PO. Just showed up on a Saturday.

Ben Franklin station (12th & Penn NW) supposedly has someone there to do walk-ins 9-4, but the first time I went it was just after 4 and the next time she was supposedly sick. They told me that Brentwood takes walk-ins and it was true. They even did the photos.