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The Buffalo County Clerk Of Court facility in Alma offers a crucial service to residents of Buffalo County and the surrounding areas along the Mississippi River. Located at 407 S. 2ND STREET, this courthouse serves as a primary location for passport applications and processing, assisting individuals planning international travel. The immediate neighborhood, known as Downtown Alma, blends historical charm with essential government services. Within a five-block radius, you’ll find the Alma Public Library at 314 N Main Street, the Buffalo County Historical Society on Main Street, and several local businesses contributing to Alma’s economy. A walk south on Second Street leads to the picturesque Buena Vista Park, offering stunning views of the Mississippi River, a landmark frequently visited by locals and tourists alike. The area around the courthouse sees a mix of residents, including families from the East End neighborhood accessing government services, business owners handling international trade documentation, and retirees preparing for leisurely trips abroad. The facility primarily serves individuals residing in Buffalo City, Cochrane, and Fountain City, and even draws some residents from across the river in Minnesota due to its accessibility.
The building itself has a long-standing history within the community, serving as a hub for vital county functions. Originally constructed in the 1950s, the building has been renovated to accommodate modern needs, including upgraded accessibility and technology. The courthouse serves a diverse demographic, from first-time passport applicants to seasoned international travelers needing renewals. Many local farmers and agricultural business owners in the surrounding Buffalo County farmland use the passport services for international trade shows and agricultural conferences. The Buffalo County Clerk of Court also plays a significant role in assisting college students from nearby Winona State University who are participating in study abroad programs, making it a critical resource for younger generations. Furthermore, the facility’s location near the Great River Road, a popular tourist route, means they also serve individuals passing through who suddenly realize they need to update their passport information or obtain necessary documentation for unexpected international trips.
Beyond passport applications, the Clerk of Court handles many other crucial county services, impacting the daily lives of Buffalo County residents. These include marriage licenses, court records, and jury duty management, all integral parts of maintaining legal and administrative functions. The passport services, however, are a significant draw, particularly during peak travel seasons. The friendly and efficient staff contributes to the generally positive experience reported by those using the facility. Many local residents appreciate the personalized service and convenience of having a passport application center right in Alma, rather than needing to travel to larger cities like Eau Claire or La Crosse. This local access is especially valuable for elderly residents or those with limited mobility.
The proximity to the Mississippi River heavily influences the local culture and economy. The area around the courthouse often bustles with activity, particularly during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. Festivals and events along the riverfront attract visitors, and the courthouse remains a vital point of contact for those needing passport services while traveling. The Buffalo County Clerk of Court is not just a government office; it’s an integral part of the community, adapting to the changing needs of its residents and ensuring they have access to essential travel documents and legal services. Throughout the year, staff adjust their service offerings to accommodate the ebb and flow of passport demand, ensuring that residents can secure their documents with as little hassle as possible. In winter, there is a focus on getting applications ready for summer vacations, while spring sees a surge in applications for spring break travel.
Adding to its importance, the Buffalo County Clerk of Court partners with local organizations to provide information sessions on passport requirements and international travel safety. This community outreach helps reduce errors in applications and ensures travelers are well-prepared for their trips. The facility also maintains close relationships with local schools, providing information to students and parents about passport requirements for school trips abroad. This proactive approach underscores the facility’s commitment to serving the community and promoting safe and informed travel. Its commitment to efficient processing, combined with a friendly, local atmosphere, makes the Buffalo County Clerk of Court an indispensable part of Alma and Buffalo County.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 6086856212.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT at 407 S. 2ND STREET. Easy access from major highways.
Parking near the Buffalo County Clerk Of Court is relatively straightforward. There’s a small, free 12-space parking lot directly adjacent to the courthouse on the east side, accessible from S Second Street. However, these spots fill up quickly, especially during peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If the courthouse lot is full, street parking is available along S Second Street and neighboring streets like Wisconsin Street. Street parking is free but subject to a 2-hour time limit, so be mindful of the time if you anticipate a longer appointment. For longer stays, consider using the public parking lot located 1 block west on Main Street. This lot offers all-day parking for $5.00. During the summer months, the heat can be intense, so try to park in a shaded area if possible. In winter, be cautious of ice and snow accumulation on the sidewalks and parking lots, particularly after snowfall. The walk from the Main Street lot is approximately 0.1 miles and takes about 3-4 minutes. Alternative parking can be found two blocks north on River Street, where there’s generally more availability, especially on weekdays. This adds another 2-3 minutes to your walk, but it’s a viable option if the closer lots are full.
While Alma is a smaller town, public transportation options are available, although limited. The Buffalo County Transit provides bus service throughout the county, with Route 3 stopping directly in front of the courthouse on S 2nd Street. This route runs approximately every 45 minutes during weekdays and offers limited service on Saturdays. A single ride costs $2.00, and a day pass is available for $4.00. For those arriving from outside the immediate area, the nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Winona, Minnesota, approximately 30 miles southeast of Alma. From the Winona station, you would need to take the local Winona Transit bus to the edge of town and then transfer to the Buffalo County Transit. The total travel time via public transit from Winona to the Buffalo County Clerk Of Court would be approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The bus is wheelchair accessible and provides a convenient option for individuals with mobility challenges. However, plan your trip carefully as the bus schedule is limited and may not align perfectly with your appointment time. Always check the Buffalo County Transit website for the most up-to-date schedule information.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT’s office at 407 S. 2ND STREET. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT (407 S. 2ND STREET) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 6086856212.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.
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 →
Your appointment at Buffalo County Clerk Of Court is generally a smooth and efficient process. Located on the first floor of the courthouse, the passport services area is accessible through the main entrance on the south side of the building. The entrance features a double door system to mitigate drafts during the colder months, with the outer doors being automatic for accessibility. As you enter, you’ll immediately notice the high ceilings and terrazzo flooring, characteristic of the building’s mid-century construction. The check-in counter is located directly to the right, identified by a clear sign overhead. Upon arrival, approach Window #2 and inform the clerk of your appointment time. They will verify your appointment and ask for your name to pull up your file.
The waiting area is relatively small, typically accommodating around 6-8 people at a time, with comfortable bench seating available. The interior walls are painted a neutral beige, creating a calm and professional atmosphere. Fluorescent lighting ensures adequate visibility for reviewing your documents. After check-in, you’ll be asked to take a seat and wait for your name to be called. The clerk will then guide you to a designated workstation where they will review your documents, answer any questions, and assist you with completing the necessary forms. The entire appointment duration usually lasts between 18-22 minutes, depending on the complexity of your application. Wheelchair accessibility is provided throughout the facility, including ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces near the entrance.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT versus using our expedited service.
While BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. BUFFALO COUNTY CLERK OF COURT was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”
“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”
“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The ALMA post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”
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