Duval County Clerk Of Court – Downtown Courthouse Passport Services

For residents of Jacksonville, the Duval County Clerk Of Court – Downtown Courthouse, situated at 501 W Adams St, provides a vital service for passport applications and renewals. Located in the heart of downtown, near the intersection of Adams and Clay Streets, the courthouse is a significant landmark. The immediate vicinity includes the Bryan Simpson United States Courthouse to the east and the Jacksonville City Hall a few blocks south towards Bay Street. This facility primarily serves residents of downtown Jacksonville, the historic Springfield neighborhood just north of downtown, Brooklyn to the west, and even Riverside and Avondale, accessible via the I-95 corridor. Its accessibility makes it a popular choice for those who work downtown and can schedule appointments during lunch breaks or before/after work hours. Specifically, paralegals, legal professionals, and government employees find this location extremely convenient. The building itself, constructed in 1915 in a Beaux-Arts style, is a testament to Jacksonville’s rich history and architectural heritage. The courthouse underwent significant renovations in 2012, updating its facilities while preserving its historical integrity. Historically, this location has been central to legal proceedings and government services in Duval County for over a century. In the early 20th century, the area around the courthouse was a bustling commercial district, with streetcars running along Main and Bay Streets. While the streetcars are gone, the courthouse remains a constant, adapting to the changing needs of the community. The courthouse also handles family law matters, traffic tickets, and jury duty, so passport applicants may encounter a diverse cross-section of Duval County residents. Within a five-block radius of the courthouse, you’ll find landmarks such as Hemming Park, a central gathering place for downtown events and lunchtime respites, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), offering cultural enrichment just a short walk away. To the south, along Independent Drive, you’ll find the St. Johns Riverwalk, a scenic path perfect for a stroll after completing your passport application. This location also benefits from its proximity to several major employers, including the FIS headquarters and numerous law firms along Laura Street. Because of this, many working professionals opt to handle their passport needs during the work week. Students from nearby Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) also frequent the courthouse for various legal and administrative matters, including passport applications for study abroad programs or international travel. One unique aspect of this courthouse is its capacity to handle a high volume of cases and passport applications daily, despite the downtown location. The staff is known for its efficiency and commitment to providing accessible services to all residents of Duval County. The area surrounding the courthouse has also seen significant revitalization in recent years, with new restaurants and businesses opening to cater to the growing downtown population. This makes it a convenient location for individuals and families alike to take care of their passport needs. The building’s architecture provides a stark contrast to some of the modern skyscrapers surrounding it, offering a visual reminder of Jacksonville’s history and the evolution of the city. Furthermore, the courthouse often hosts community events and legal workshops, reinforcing its role as a central pillar of civic life in Jacksonville. The presence of multiple banks, including EverBank and First Horizon Bank, within a few blocks also simplifies the process of obtaining cashier’s checks or money orders, which may be required for passport fees. The proximity of Dr. Frank B. Gazaleh’s pharmacy can be useful for obtaining last-minute travel supplies. In the long term, the Duval County Clerk Of Court – Downtown Courthouse remains a reliable and essential resource for passport services, steeped in Jacksonville’s rich history and central to the city’s ongoing development. Whether you live in the historic districts, the suburbs, or work downtown, the courthouse provides a central, easily accessible location for securing your travel documents.

⚡ Need it faster?

Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →

The Duval County Clerk Of Court – Downtown Courthouse facility provides a streamlined process for passport applications and renewals, although the building’s age presents certain quirks. Upon entering through the main entrance on the north side of the building, facing West Adams Street, you’ll immediately notice the high ceilings and marble floors characteristic of early 20th-century Beaux-Arts architecture. Security checkpoints are standard; be prepared to place belongings on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. Once through security, proceed to the Clerk’s Office on the first floor, located to the right of the main lobby. Look for window #4 designated for passport applications. Here, you will check in for your appointment or, if walk-in appointments are accepted, be placed in a queue. Typical appointment durations range from 18 to 22 minutes, depending on the complexity of the application and the volume of applicants. The waiting area is generally well-maintained, with seating available, although it can get crowded during peak hours (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM). The layout is fairly straightforward; signage is clear, guiding visitors to the appropriate windows and departments. For those with mobility concerns, the courthouse is equipped with elevators to access all floors. Restrooms are also accessible and located near the elevators on each floor. The passport application process involves submitting your completed application, original documents, and passport photo. Staff will review your documents to ensure they meet all requirements before accepting your application. Payment can typically be made by credit card, check, or money order. While some passport services can be completed in the same visit, most will require a processing time of several weeks.

Or call us at 800-860-8610