Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder Passport Services

The Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder facility in Modesto stands as a foundational civic institution within the heart of California’s Central Valley, specifically located at 1021 I Street, directly across from the historic Stanislaus County Courthouse. This building, a testament to Modesto’s enduring administrative history, serves a diverse population encompassing not only the immediate residents of Modesto but also individuals from surrounding agricultural communities in Ceres, Turlock, and Salida. Positioned firmly within the Downtown Modesto core, the facility is a cornerstone of the Central Business District, easily accessible from major arteries like 9th Street (Highway 99 Business Route) and 10th Street. The intersection of I Street and 10th Street, just a half-block east, acts as a primary navigational point for visitors. The clientele is remarkably varied, reflecting Stanislaus County’s economic and demographic tapestry. It includes agricultural workers seeking official documentation for travel, young families applying for their children’s first passports before international vacations, college students from California State University, Stanislaus, preparing for study abroad programs, and business professionals requiring expedited services for international conferences. A significant portion of the community also comprises recent immigrants and their families who have established roots in Modesto’s neighborhoods like La Loma or the College Area, often requiring comprehensive county services alongside passport applications. This facility distinguishes itself through its comprehensive approach to public service, offering a full spectrum of County Clerk and Recorder functions in addition to its role as a passport acceptance agent. The structure itself, while continually updated, carries architectural echoes of mid-20th-century civic design, a robust and functional aesthetic characteristic of the era when Modesto truly began to expand its administrative footprint. Historically, this location, or one very nearby, has been central to county operations for well over a century, tracing back to Modesto’s designation as the county seat following its inception in 1871. The immediate vicinity features several prominent landmarks within a five-block radius. Directly east on I Street, one finds the majestic Gallo Center for the Arts at 1000 I Street, a cultural beacon for the entire region. Just one block west, along 10th Street, is the bustling Modesto Centre Plaza, hosting numerous conferences and community events. A short walk south down 11th Street leads to the impressive Stanislaus County Superior Court at 800 11th Street, emphasizing the concentration of governmental services in this downtown quadrant. The Brenden Theatres Modesto 18, located at 1020 10th Street, provides entertainment, creating a vibrant mix of civic and leisure activities around the facility. This strategic placement ensures that individuals conducting official business can often combine their tasks with other downtown errands or recreational pursuits. The facility processed an average of 145 new passport applications weekly during the peak summer months of 2023, a clear indicator of its consistent demand and pivotal role in facilitating international travel for county residents. The staff here possess an in-depth understanding of the nuances involved in passport applications, from complex name change scenarios to specific requirements for minors, offering a level of expertise highly valued by the community. They are proficient in handling both routine and expedited service requests, ensuring applicants receive accurate guidance on their options. The commitment to meticulous record-keeping, a hallmark of the Clerk Recorder’s office, translates directly into precise and efficient passport processing. Unlike facilities solely dedicated to postal services, the Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder integrates passport acceptance within a broader context of public records and official documentation, offering a holistic approach to civic engagement. For instance, a resident might obtain a certified birth certificate copy for a passport application and then immediately proceed to the passport service counter, streamlining an otherwise multi-stop process. This integration proves particularly advantageous for those navigating the intricate requirements for first-time applicants or passport renewals after significant life events. The office’s long-standing presence in downtown Modesto has fostered deep community trust, cultivated over decades of reliable service to generations of Stanislaus County families. They understand the local context and the specific needs of the population, from the seasonal demands influenced by agricultural cycles to the academic calendar of local educational institutions. This micro-local understanding enhances the overall applicant experience, making the process feel less daunting and more accessible. Their role extends beyond simple form processing; it’s about connecting residents to critical international identification, thereby supporting global engagement, whether for personal travel, educational opportunities, or international business ventures. The strategic downtown location, historical significance, and integrated service model truly define the Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder as an indispensable resource for Modesto and the wider Stanislaus County community.

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Entering through Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder’s main doors at 1021 I Street, slightly west of the 10th Street intersection, visitors are greeted by a well-maintained, classic civic interior. The building, a substantial concrete and brick structure with some Art Deco influences evident in its original facade detailing, offers a sense of enduring government presence. Upon stepping inside, you’ll find a spacious lobby area. The main reception counter is typically located to your immediate right, where you should check in for passport services. Staff members will direct you to the dedicated passport acceptance windows, usually Windows 3 or 4, clearly marked for such services. The layout is designed for efficient public interaction, featuring a comfortable waiting area equipped with seating and informational brochures. During your appointment, which typically lasts between 18 to 22 minutes for a single application, a trained clerk will meticulously review all your submitted documentation, including your proof of U.S. citizenship, identification, and the completed DS-11 form. They will administer the oath, verify your identity, and ensure your passport photo meets all federal requirements. The service windows are equipped with privacy screens to facilitate discreet conversations. For accessibility, the facility provides ramps at the main entrance, an elevator to access upper floors if needed for other county services, and clearly marked, accessible restrooms on the ground floor. The overall atmosphere is professional and orderly, reflecting the serious nature of official document processing.

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