Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a PO Box

Quick answer

• Determine your needs: size, location, and duration.
• Gather required identification documents.
• Visit your local Post Office or use the USPS website.
• Complete the application form accurately.
• Pay the applicable fees.
• Receive your PO Box key and address.

Who this is for

• Individuals needing a secure, separate mailing address for privacy.
• Small business owners who want a professional business address.
• Frequent travelers or those who receive frequent deliveries.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Mailing Needs

Before you even think about registering, consider what you actually need from a PO Box. How much mail do you anticipate receiving? Will it include packages, or just letters? This will help you determine the appropriate box size. Also, think about the location – do you need it to be near your home, your office, or a convenient transit point?

Local Post Office Availability

Not all Post Offices offer PO Boxes, and those that do often have waiting lists. It’s a good idea to check with your local Post Office or the USPS website to see if boxes are available in your desired location and what the current wait times might be.

Required Identification

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has specific identification requirements for registering a PO Box. You’ll typically need to present one valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and potentially a secondary form of identification. Check the USPS website for the most current list of acceptable documents.

Step-by-step: How to Register for a PO Box

1. Assess Your Needs:

• What to do: Decide on the box size (e.g., small, medium, large) and the desired Post Office location. Consider how long you’ll need the box.
• What “good” looks like: You have a clear idea of the box size and location that best suits your mail volume and convenience.
• Common mistake: Choosing a box that’s too small for your mail volume, leading to frequent “call for pickup” notices or overflowing mail. Avoid this by estimating your typical mail and package delivery needs.

2. Locate a PO Box Offering Post Office:

• What to do: Use the USPS website’s “Find a Location” tool or visit your local Post Office to confirm they offer PO Boxes and check availability.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve identified a Post Office with available PO Boxes that meets your location preference.
• Common mistake: Assuming all Post Offices have PO Boxes. Avoid this by checking online or calling ahead.

3. Gather Identification:

• What to do: Collect at least one valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, passport) and potentially a secondary form of ID.
• What “good” looks like: You have all the necessary identification documents ready.
• Common mistake: Bringing expired or unacceptable forms of ID. Avoid this by reviewing the USPS official list of acceptable identification.

4. Complete USPS Form 1593:

• What to do: Obtain and fill out the “Application for Post Office Box Service” (Form 1593). You can usually get this at the Post Office or download it from the USPS website.
• What “good” looks like: The form is filled out completely, accurately, and legibly with all required information.
• Common mistake: Leaving fields blank or providing incorrect information, which can delay your application. Avoid this by carefully reading each section and double-checking your entries.

5. Present Identification and Form:

• What to do: Take your completed Form 1593 and your identification documents to the Post Office.
• What “good” looks like: You are at the Post Office, ready to present your documents to a postal clerk.
• Common mistake: Going at a busy time and facing long wait lines. Avoid this by visiting during off-peak hours if possible.

6. Pay Fees:

• What to do: Pay the required rental fee for your chosen box size and rental period (e.g., 6 or 12 months), plus any applicable deposit. Fees vary by box size and location.
• What “good” looks like: You have successfully paid for your PO Box service.
• Common mistake: Not being prepared for the cost. Avoid this by checking the USPS website or asking the clerk about the exact fees beforehand.

7. Receive Your Key and Address:

• What to do: Once your application is processed and payment is received, you’ll be assigned a PO Box number and given keys.
• What “good” looks like: You have your PO Box key(s) and know your new mailing address.
• Common mistake: Losing your key immediately. Avoid this by storing it safely and considering a spare if offered.

8. Update Your Address:

• What to do: Begin using your new PO Box address for all your mail and deliveries. Inform relevant parties (banks, subscriptions, government agencies) of your address change.
• What “good” looks like: All your mail is now being directed to your PO Box, and important contacts have been updated.
• Common mistake: Forgetting to update some important contacts, leading to missed mail. Avoid this by creating a comprehensive list of everyone who sends you mail.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Using expired or invalid identification	Application rejection, delays in getting your PO Box.	Always check the USPS website for current acceptable ID requirements before visiting.
Not checking PO Box availability	Wasted trip to the Post Office, frustration, needing to find an alternative.	Use the USPS online locator or call your local Post Office to confirm availability.
Underestimating mail volume for box size	Mail overflow, “call for pickup” notices, potential missed important mail.	Err on the side of a slightly larger box if unsure; you can always downsize later if needed.
Incomplete or inaccurate application	Delays, application denial, needing to reapply.	Read each section carefully and double-check all entered information before submitting.
Not budgeting for fees	Inability to pay, needing to postpone or cancel the application.	Check the USPS website or ask the postal clerk for current rental fees and payment methods.
Losing PO Box keys	Inconvenience, potential security risk, cost of rekeying or changing boxes.	Keep keys in a safe, designated place. Consider making a spare key if permitted by the Post Office.
Failing to update all contacts	Missed important mail, packages returned to sender, communication disruptions.	Create a master list of all contacts and systematically update each one.
Not understanding package delivery rules	Packages being returned, needing to pick them up at the Post Office.	Clarify with the Post Office if packages can be delivered to your PO Box or if you need a street address.
Forgetting to renew the PO Box	Loss of your PO Box, mail being returned or discarded.	Mark your renewal date on a calendar and set reminders well in advance.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you need a private mailing address for personal correspondence, then registering for a PO Box is a good option because it separates your personal mail from your home address.
• If you are a business owner who wants to project a professional image, then a PO Box can serve as a dedicated business address, distinct from your home.
• If you frequently receive packages that might not fit in a standard mailbox, then ensure you select a PO Box size that can accommodate them or understand the Post Office’s policy on larger package delivery.
• If you travel extensively, then a PO Box can prevent mail from piling up at your home, reducing the risk of mail theft or missed important notices.
• If your local Post Office has a long waiting list for PO Boxes, then be prepared for a delay or consider alternative locations if convenience is paramount.
• If you are unsure about the exact identification requirements, then check the official USPS website before you go to the Post Office to avoid delays.
• If you have a lot of mail and packages, then opt for a larger PO Box size to avoid the inconvenience of frequent “call for pickup” notices.
• If you need to change your address with multiple entities, then create a checklist of banks, subscriptions, employers, and government agencies to ensure you update everyone.
• If you are concerned about the cost, then compare the fees for different box sizes and rental periods to find the most economical option for your needs.
• If you receive mail that is not addressed to your PO Box, then it will likely be returned to sender or require you to pick it up at the Post Office, so ensure all senders use your correct PO Box address.

FAQ

Q: Can I get a PO Box if I don’t have a physical street address?

A: Generally, you will need a physical street address for your application, even if you plan to use the PO Box as your primary mailing address. This is for verification purposes.

Q: How much does a PO Box cost?

A: The cost varies significantly based on the size of the box and the Post Office location. Fees are typically charged for 6-month or 12-month rental periods. Check the USPS website for current pricing.

Q: How long does it take to get a PO Box?

A: If a box is immediately available, the process can often be completed the same day. However, if there’s a waiting list, it could take weeks or months.

Q: Can packages be delivered to my PO Box?

A: Some Post Offices allow package delivery to PO Boxes, while others require packages to be picked up at the counter. Clarify this policy with your local Post Office.

Q: What happens if my mail doesn’t fit in my PO Box?

A: If your mail or packages are too large, you will typically receive a notification slip to pick them up at the Post Office counter.

Q: Can I use my PO Box address for official documents like a driver’s license?

A: This varies by state and local regulations. Many government agencies require a physical street address for official documentation.

Q: How do I renew my PO Box?

A: You will receive a renewal notice from the USPS before your rental period expires. You can typically renew online, by mail, or in person at the Post Office.

Q: What if I lose my PO Box key?

A: Contact your local Post Office immediately. There will be a fee to rekey the lock or provide you with a new key.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• International mail forwarding services.
• Specific legal requirements for business registration addresses in your state.
• Advanced mail sorting and management solutions.
• Options for virtual mailboxes offered by private companies.