[tedtodd]

So I went to the post office 5 weeks ago to get a passport- they said it would be tight for time, so I should call the Boston passport office to book an appointment within 14 days of travel.

So I do that. The 800# automated queu is full. I try for a few days off and on without any success. I finally wake up at 3am last night and I get thru to them. The earliest appointment is next Wed 5/23. I fly out the following Tuesday, but with the holiday weekend I assume I'll need to grab it that Friday....

-Does anyone have experience with these passport offices? How long does it take? Can I pick the passport up at their office- to prevent shipping?

-Has anyone ever used one of the many shady passport expediting services? Not sure which one to trust, or if I even need one.

THANKS!!!!