How to Book a Passport Appointment at FedEx

What FedEx passport appointments are and how to book one

FedEx Office locations offer passport photo services and can notarize documents you need for a passport application, but they do not process passport applications themselves or issue passports. You book a FedEx appointment to get your photos taken and documents certified, then you submit those materials to the State Department through the mail, at a passport acceptance facility, or at a passport agency in person.

To book a passport appointment at FedEx, visit the FedEx Office website, select "Services," then "Passport Photos," and choose your nearest location. You can book online for a specific date and time, or call the location directly. Most FedEx Office locations accept walk-ins for passport photos, but booking ahead guarantees your time slot and avoids a wait.

The appointment itself is short—usually 10 to 15 minutes for photos alone. If you also need notarization of documents, add another 10 to 15 minutes. Bring a valid government ID, and wear clothing that contrasts with the photo background (the background is usually white or light blue).

Key Takeaways

• FedEx Office provides passport photos and document notarization, but does not accept or process passport applications.
• Book online through the FedEx Office website by selecting your location and preferred date and time, or call the location directly.
• Bring a valid government ID and wear contrasting clothing; the appointment takes 10 to 15 minutes for photos alone.
• After your FedEx appointment, you must submit your photos and application materials to a passport acceptance facility, passport agency, or by mail to the State Department.

Finding and selecting your FedEx Office location

Not every FedEx location offers passport photo services. FedEx Office locations do, but FedEx Ground and FedEx Express drop-off points do not. On the FedEx Office website, use the location finder and filter for "Passport Photos" to see which stores near you provide this service.

If you live in a rural area or a location without FedEx Office nearby, you can get passport photos at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, or the post office instead. These locations often have shorter wait times and similar pricing. The State Department also accepts photos from any photographer who follows their specifications: 2 by 2 inches, color or black and white, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background.

What to bring and what to expect during your appointment

Bring a valid government ID—a driver's license, state ID, or passport card all work. You do not need to bring anything else for the photo appointment itself. The photographer will position you, take the photo, and print it on the spot. Most FedEx Office locations print passport photos in a set of four for around $15 to $20, though prices vary by location.

If you also need notarization, bring the documents you want notarized and your ID. The notary public at FedEx will verify your identity, watch you sign the document, and affix their seal. Notarization costs vary but typically run $5 to $15 per document. Some passport applications require notarized affidavits or supporting documents, so check your specific application requirements before the appointment.

Wear solid-colored clothing that stands out against the background. Avoid busy patterns, white clothing (which blends with the background), and large logos. Glasses are allowed if you wear them daily, but the State Department asks that you remove them if possible to show your eyes clearly.

Booking online versus calling ahead

The FedEx Office website lets you book passport photo appointments online for a specific time slot. This is the fastest route if you know which location you want and what day works for you. Select your location, choose "Passport Photos," pick your date and time, and confirm. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.

If the online system shows no available slots, or if you prefer to speak to someone, call the FedEx Office location directly. The staff can tell you when the photographer is available, whether they can fit you in sooner, and answer questions about pricing or what documents you need notarized. Phone numbers for each location appear on the FedEx Office website location page.

Walk-ins are usually accepted, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour during busy times. Booking ahead is worth the two minutes it takes online.

What happens after your FedEx appointment

Once you have your passport photos and any notarized documents, you are ready to apply for a passport. You have three options: apply by mail, apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, or apply in person at a passport agency.

For a standard passport, the State Department accepts mail applications. You will need your completed DS-11 or DS-82 form (depending on whether you are renewing or applying for the first time), your FedEx photos, proof of citizenship, a valid ID, and the application fee. Mail everything to the address listed on the State Department website for your state. Processing takes 6 to 8 weeks by routine mail service, or 2 to 3 weeks if you pay for expedited service.

If you need your passport faster, apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office, library, or county clerk's office) or at a passport agency. Passport agencies are in major cities and handle rush applications. In-person applications can be processed in as little as one business day if you pay for expedited service and apply at an agency.

Passport photo requirements the State Department enforces

The State Department has strict rules about passport photos, and FedEx Office photographers are trained to follow them. Your photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, with a plain white or off-white background. Your face must take up 50 percent of the photo, and you must be looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

The State Department will reject photos that do not meet these standards and ask you to submit a new one. If FedEx takes a photo that does not meet requirements, ask them to retake it at no extra charge. Most locations will do this without hesitation.

Glasses are permitted if you wear them every day, but the State Department prefers photos without them. If you wear glasses, make sure there is no glare on the lenses and that your eyes are clearly visible. Hats and head coverings are not allowed unless you wear them for religious reasons; in that case, your face must still be fully visible from the forehead to the chin.

Pricing and payment at FedEx Office

Passport photos at FedEx Office typically cost $15 to $20 for a set of four photos. Notarization costs $5 to $15 per document, depending on the location and the complexity of the document. Prices vary by location, so call ahead if cost is a concern.

FedEx Office accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and cash. If you book online, you can pay at the time of booking or when you arrive for your appointment, depending on the location's policy. Ask when you book whether payment is due upfront or on the day of your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo I took myself instead of going to FedEx?

Yes. The State Department accepts any photo that meets their specifications: 2 by 2 inches, color or black and white, taken within six months, with a plain white or off-white background, and your face taking up 50 percent of the frame. You do not have to use a professional photo. Many people print photos at home or at a drugstore and submit them with their application.

What if FedEx rejects my photo or says it does not meet State Department rules?

Ask the photographer to retake it. FedEx Office staff are trained on State Department photo rules and should offer to reshoot at no charge if the first photo does not meet requirements. If they refuse, you can take your photo elsewhere or print a home photo that meets the specifications.

Do I need an appointment for passport photos, or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are usually accepted, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour during peak times. Booking online takes two minutes and guarantees your time slot. If you are in a hurry, booking ahead is the better choice.

Can FedEx submit my passport application to the State Department for me?

No. FedEx provides photos and notarization only. You must submit your completed application, photos, and supporting documents to the State Department yourself—either by mail, or in person at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency. FedEx does not handle passport applications.

How long does a passport take after I submit my application?

Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks by mail. Expedited processing takes 2 to 3 weeks and costs extra. If you apply in person at a passport agency and pay for expedited service, you can receive your passport in as little as one business day. Processing times vary depending on demand and the time of year.