How To Get A Post Office Box In California

Quick answer

• Visit your local USPS post office branch in California.
• Fill out the PO Box™ Application (PS Form 1093).
• Provide two valid forms of identification.
• Pay the applicable rental fee and a one-time key fee.
• Choose a box size and rental term (usually 6 or 12 months).
• Receive your box number and key, and set up mail forwarding if needed.

Who this is for

• California residents who need a private mailing address.
• Businesses operating in California requiring a professional mailing solution.
• Individuals seeking to separate personal and business mail.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Mailing Needs and Timeline

Consider why you need a PO Box. Is it for a temporary period or ongoing? Do you need to receive packages, or just standard mail? Understanding your requirements will help you choose the right box size and rental term.

Current Mail Delivery Method

Are you currently receiving mail at a home address or a business address? If you’re moving or want to separate mail, you’ll need to consider how your current mail will be handled.

Availability of PO Boxes

Post office box availability varies significantly by location and branch. Some popular branches may have long waiting lists, while others might have immediate openings. It’s wise to check with your local post office about availability before you go.

Budget for Fees

PO Boxes come with rental fees, which vary by box size and location. There’s also a one-time key fee. Know that these fees are generally non-refundable.

Identity Verification Requirements

You will need to present specific identification to rent a PO Box. Ensure you have the required documents ready to avoid delays.

Getting a PO Box in California: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate Your Nearest Post Office:

• What to do: Use the USPS website or a quick online search to find the post office branch closest to your desired delivery location or your home.
• What “good” looks like: You have identified a specific branch you plan to visit.
• Common mistake: Assuming all post offices offer PO Boxes. Some smaller branches may not have them. How to avoid: Check the USPS website for specific branch offerings or call ahead.

2. Check Box Availability:

• What to do: Visit the chosen post office in person and inquire about the availability of PO Boxes. You can also check online via the USPS PO Box rental portal, though in-person confirmation is often best.
• What “good” looks like: You know if boxes are available and what sizes are open.
• Common mistake: Traveling to the post office only to find out there’s a long waiting list. How to avoid: Call the branch beforehand to ask about current availability and wait times.

3. Complete the PO Box Application (PS Form 1093):

• What to do: Obtain and fill out the “PO Box™ Application” (PS Form 1093). You can usually get this form at the post office or download it from the USPS website.
• What “good” looks like: The form is filled out completely and accurately with all required information.
• Common mistake: Leaving sections blank or providing incomplete information, which can delay the process. How to avoid: Read through the form carefully and have all necessary personal details ready.

4. Present Valid Identification:

• What to do: Bring two valid forms of identification to the post office. One must be a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or state ID), and the second can be another form of ID (like a utility bill with your name and address, or a credit card). Check USPS guidelines for acceptable forms.
• What “good” looks like: You have two forms of identification that meet USPS requirements.
• Common mistake: Bringing expired or unacceptable forms of ID. How to avoid: Visit the USPS website or call the post office to confirm the exact identification requirements for PS Form 1093.

5. Select Box Size and Rental Term:

• What to do: Based on availability and your anticipated mail volume, choose the box size that best suits your needs. You’ll also select a rental term, typically 6 or 12 months.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve chosen a box size that fits your mail and a rental term you’re comfortable with.
• Common mistake: Renting a box that’s too small and having mail returned or a box that’s too large, leading to unnecessary cost. How to avoid: Estimate your average mail volume or ask the postal clerk for advice on box sizes.

6. Pay the Rental and Key Fees:

• What to do: Pay the required PO Box rental fee for your chosen term and the one-time key fee. Fees vary by location and box size.
• What “good” looks like: You have paid all necessary fees and received a receipt.
• Common mistake: Not realizing there’s a separate key fee in addition to the rental fee. How to avoid: Ask the postal clerk for a breakdown of all initial costs.

7. Receive Your PO Box Number and Keys:

• What to do: Once your application is processed and payment is confirmed, you will be assigned a PO Box number and given keys to your new box.
• What “good” looks like: You have your PO Box number and the physical keys to access your mail.
• Common mistake: Losing your keys immediately after receiving them. How to avoid: Keep your keys in a safe and memorable place.

8. Update Your Address and Set Up Mail Forwarding (Optional but Recommended):

• What to do: If you are moving, use USPS Change of Address (PS Form 3575) to forward your mail to your new PO Box. You can do this online or at the post office.
• What “good” looks like: Your mail is successfully being rerouted to your PO Box.
• Common mistake: Forgetting to officially change your address with USPS, leading to missed mail. How to avoid: Complete the official change of address process, which is distinct from just renting a PO Box.

9. Begin Using Your PO Box:

• What to do: Start giving your new PO Box address to senders. Check your box regularly.
• What “good” looks like: You are receiving your mail at your PO Box, and your old address is no longer receiving unsolicited mail.
• Common mistake: Continuing to use your old address for important communications. How to avoid: Systematically update your address with all important contacts, bills, and subscriptions.

Common Mistakes and Their Consequences

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not checking PO Box availability beforehand.	Wasted trip to the post office, potential disappointment if none are available.	Call the post office or check the USPS online portal for availability before visiting.
Using incorrect or expired identification.	Application will be rejected, delaying the process.	Review the USPS official list of acceptable identification for PS Form 1093 and ensure your documents meet the criteria.
Providing incomplete or inaccurate application info.	Application processing delays or outright rejection.	Carefully read each section of PS Form 1093 and fill in all required fields accurately. Double-check for typos.
Choosing a box size that’s too small.	Mail may be returned to sender, or you might need to upgrade to a larger box.	Estimate your mail volume and ask postal clerks for recommendations on box sizes. You can usually upgrade if needed, but it may involve additional fees.
Forgetting to set up official mail forwarding.	Missed important mail and bills during the transition period.	Complete a USPS Change of Address (PS Form 3575) online or at the post office to ensure your mail is rerouted to your new PO Box.
Not updating your address with all contacts.	Continued delivery to your old address or missed communications.	Create a list of all important contacts (banks, subscriptions, government agencies, friends, family) and systematically update your mailing address with each.
Losing your PO Box keys.	Inconvenience, potential security risk, and cost to replace keys.	Keep your keys in a secure and easily accessible place. Report lost keys to the post office immediately for replacement.
Assuming the PO Box rental fee covers package delivery.	Packages that don’t fit may be returned or require different handling.	Understand that standard PO Boxes are for letter-sized mail. Larger packages may require pickup at the counter or may not be deliverable to a PO Box.
Not checking your PO Box regularly.	Overstuffed box, potential for mail to be returned, or missed important items.	Establish a routine for checking your PO Box, especially if you expect mail.

Decision Rules for Getting a PO Box

• If you need a private mailing address separate from your home address, then rent a PO Box because it offers discretion and a professional image.
• If you are moving within California and want to ensure mail continuity, then rent a PO Box and file a Change of Address form because it guarantees your mail is rerouted.
• If you are a business owner in California, then consider a PO Box because it provides a professional and consistent mailing address.
• If your current home address receives too much junk mail, then a PO Box can be a good solution because it filters out unsolicited mail.
• If you anticipate receiving a high volume of mail, then choose a larger PO Box size because it will accommodate more items.
• If you are looking for a temporary mailing solution, then opt for a 6-month rental term because it offers flexibility.
• If you cannot provide two forms of valid identification, then you cannot rent a PO Box because it’s a mandatory USPS requirement.
• If you are unsure about the fees, then ask the postal clerk for a detailed breakdown because fees vary by location and box size.
• If you need to receive packages that may not fit in a standard box, then inquire about package acceptance policies at your chosen branch because some PO Boxes offer limited package handling.
• If you are not a California resident but need a PO Box in California, then you generally must have a physical presence or business reason in that specific postal area to qualify.
• If you prefer to manage your PO Box application and payment online, then check the USPS website for their online PO Box rental portal, but be aware that some steps may still require an in-person visit.

FAQ

How much does a PO Box cost in California?

The cost of a PO Box in California varies based on the box size and the specific post office location. Generally, there’s a rental fee (paid every 6 or 12 months) and a one-time key fee. Check with your local USPS branch or the USPS website for current pricing.

Can I get a PO Box without a California driver’s license?

Yes, you can usually get a PO Box without a California driver’s license, as long as you provide two valid forms of identification that meet USPS requirements. One must be a government-issued photo ID, and the second can be another form of acceptable ID.

How long does it take to get a PO Box?

The process of obtaining a PO Box can often be completed the same day you visit the post office, provided a box is available and you have all your required documents and payment. However, if there’s a waiting list, it could take longer.

Can I receive packages at a PO Box?

Some post offices allow packages to be delivered to your PO Box if they fit. Larger packages may need to be picked up at the post office counter, and some restrictions may apply. It’s best to confirm the specific policy with your local branch.

What if I lose my PO Box key?

If you lose your PO Box key, you must report it to the post office immediately. There will be a fee to replace the key and potentially re-key the lock for security.

Can I use a PO Box as my official address for everything?

A PO Box can serve as your mailing address for most purposes, including bills, subscriptions, and personal correspondence. However, some entities, like government agencies or certain financial institutions, may require a physical street address.

Do I need to be a US citizen to get a PO Box?

You do not necessarily need to be a US citizen to rent a PO Box, but you will need to provide valid identification and meet USPS residency or business requirements for the area.

Can I change my PO Box size later?

Yes, you can typically request to change your PO Box size if needed. This may involve a fee and is subject to the availability of larger boxes.

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

• International Mail Forwarding: This guide focuses on domestic USPS services. For international mail forwarding, consult specific international postal services.
• Business Mail Solutions Beyond PO Boxes: For more comprehensive business mail handling, explore USPS Business Solutions or private mail forwarding services.
• Specific Legal or Tax Implications: This is general guidance. Consult with legal or tax professionals for advice specific to your business or personal situation in California.
• Private Mailbox Companies: This article covers USPS Post Office Boxes. For services offered by private companies (like The UPS Store or independent mail centers), research their specific offerings and fees.
• Advanced Mail Management Software: For businesses requiring sophisticated mail tracking and digital mail scanning, explore dedicated mail management software solutions.