Originally Posted by
pinniped
OK, great, you can get one lightning fast at a Passport Agency. We all know that.
Why would you go to the trouble of that if you only needed the passport in 4.5 (or even 6 to 8) weeks?
No, "we" don't. This is an informational board and there are many people who have no idea that the PA's exist or that they may be accessed without an appointment.
I suppose that if you absolutely knew that you under no circumstances will need to travel abroad before some specific date in the future, you might as well use the Post Office. But, many people may not expect travel, but it pops up.
In addition, there are many people who have oddball document situations. While there is no prohibition on using the Post Office, the State Dept. people tend to be more knowledgeable and can actually be helpful.