How to Get a PO Box (Step-by-Step Guide 2025)
A PO Box gives you a secure, private mailing address at your local post office—ideal for privacy, small businesses, frequent travelers, or anyone who wants mail separate from their home address. Here's everything you need to know about getting a USPS PO Box, including requirements, costs, sizes, and how to apply online or in person.
Quick Steps
- Find a post office with available boxes
- Choose your box size
- Bring two forms of ID (one with photo)
- Complete PS Form 1583
- Pay the rental fee
- Get your keys and start using your box
Cost: $20-400+/year depending on size and location
USPS PO Box Requirements
Two Forms of ID
USPS requires two forms of identification. One must have a photo.
Primary ID (Photo Required)
- • Driver's license
- • State ID card
- • Passport
- • Military ID
- • University ID (with photo)
Secondary ID
- • Vehicle registration
- • Voter registration card
- • Home/car insurance card
- • Lease or mortgage statement
- • Utility bill (recent)
PS Form 1583
This is the PO Box application form. You can fill it out at the post office or download it from USPS.com ahead of time. It requires your name, address, ID information, and signature.
Payment
Bring payment for the rental fee. USPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. You can pay for 3, 6, or 12 months at a time.
Step-by-Step: Getting a PO Box
Find a Post Office with Available Boxes
Not all post offices have PO Boxes, and popular locations may have waitlists. Use the USPS PO Box search tool to find availability near you.
Search for PO Boxes →Choose Your Box Size
USPS offers five box sizes. Consider how much mail you expect:
| Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| XS (1) | 3" × 5.5" | Letters only, minimal mail |
| S (2) | 5" × 5.5" | Letters + small packages |
| M (3) | 5.5" × 11" | Regular mail volume, most popular |
| L (4) | 11" × 11" | Small business, magazines |
| XL (5) | 12" × 22.5" | High volume, business use |
Reserve Online (Optional)
You can reserve and pay online at USPS.com to lock in your box. However, you'll still need to visit the post office within 30 days to show your ID before the box becomes active.
Tip: Online reservations can save time, but walk-ins can sometimes get same-day service if boxes are available.
Visit the Post Office
Bring your two forms of ID to the post office. You'll:
- • Complete PS Form 1583 (or bring your completed form)
- • Show your ID to the clerk
- • Pay the rental fee (if not paid online)
- • Receive your keys
Start Using Your PO Box
Once you have your keys, your PO Box is active. Start updating your address with senders. Learn how to address a PO Box correctly. Your new address format is:
Your Name
PO Box [Number]
City, State ZIP
PO Box Sizes and Prices
PO Box prices vary significantly by location. Urban areas cost more than rural areas. Here are typical annual price ranges:
| Size | Rural | Suburban | Urban |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | $20-30/yr | $40-70/yr | $80-150/yr |
| S | $30-45/yr | $60-100/yr | $120-200/yr |
| M | $50-75/yr | $90-150/yr | $175-280/yr |
| L | $80-120/yr | $150-220/yr | $250-380/yr |
| XL | $120-180/yr | $200-300/yr | $350-500+/yr |
Use the USPS PO Box search to find exact pricing at your preferred location.
Payment Terms
3 Months
Good for testing if a PO Box works for you
6 Months
Balance of commitment and flexibility
12 Months
Best value—often saves money
Tips for PO Box Owners
- ✓ Check your box regularly — Boxes can fill up; oversized items go to the counter
- ✓ Keep your key safe — Replacement keys cost $20+
- ✓ Set up auto-pay — Avoid losing your box due to missed payments
- ✓ Update address promptly — Start redirecting mail as soon as you have your number
- ✓ Know the lobby hours — Some post offices have 24/7 lobby access, others don't
- ✓ Use Street Addressing — Ask if your location offers a street address option (see PO Box vs Street Address)
- ✓ Sign up for Informed Delivery — See what's coming before you visit
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a PO Box at USPS?
You can get a PO Box online at USPS.com or in person at a post office. You'll need two forms of ID (one with photo), complete PS Form 1583, choose your box size, and pay the fee. Processing is same-day for in-person applications.
How much does a PO Box cost?
PO Box costs vary by size and location, ranging from about $20/year for a small box in a rural area to $400+/year for a large box in a major city. Most suburban locations charge $50-150/year for medium boxes.
What do I need to get a PO Box?
You need two forms of ID (one must have a photo, like a driver's license or passport), a completed PS Form 1583, and payment for the rental fee. Business applicants also need business documentation.
Can I get a PO Box online?
Yes, you can reserve and pay for a PO Box online at USPS.com. However, you'll still need to visit the post office within 30 days to verify your identity with two forms of ID before your box becomes active.
Can packages be delivered to a PO Box?
Yes, USPS packages can be delivered to a PO Box. If a package is too large for your box, you'll receive a slip to pick it up at the counter. Some locations also offer Street Addressing, which allows delivery from other carriers like UPS and FedEx.
Need to Send Important Mail?
Certified Mail provides tracking and proof of delivery or attempted delivery to any address—including PO Boxes.