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Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County Passport Services

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Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County – Passport Acceptance Facility

CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY – Quick Facts

Reserve your time slot at Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County by contacting their office directly during business hours to schedule your passport appointment. Walk-ins are not permitted for passport services to ensure efficient processing. When you arrive at the Scott County Courthouse, proceed through security at the main entrance on S Winchester Street, then head to the Clerk of Circuit Court’s reception counter on the ground floor to check in for your scheduled time.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
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“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

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“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • BENTON, MO

★★★★★

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CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

The Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County facility in Benton stands as a cornerstone of civic administration within the small, historically rich county seat. Situated prominently at 131 S Winchester Street, directly adjacent to the historic Scott County Courthouse Square, this location is more than just an office; it’s a central point for residents of Benton and the wider Scott County area to access essential government services, including passport application processing. This specific address places it within the traditional downtown core, just one block east of Main Street and roughly two blocks south of Highway 61, making it reasonably accessible for those traveling from surrounding communities. The courthouse, originally constructed in 1935 after a significant modernization effort, replaced an earlier 19th-century structure, embodying the architectural resilience and enduring civic spirit of the community. For decades, the Clerk’s office has adapted to meet the evolving needs of its constituents, and the addition of passport services approximately 15 years ago marked a crucial expansion of its public offerings, acknowledging the increasing demand for international travel documentation even in rural Missouri.

This facility primarily serves the approximately 800 residents within Benton itself, along with a significant population from the adjacent towns and townships across Scott County. This includes farming families from rural areas like Oran and Morley, small business owners from Sikeston, and retirees residing in Miner. The demographics utilizing the passport services here are quite diverse, ranging from young college students planning study abroad programs to established professionals requiring passports for business travel, and numerous families embarking on international vacations. For many in these less densely populated areas, traveling to larger metropolitan centers like St. Louis (over 100 miles north) or Memphis, Tennessee (over 90 miles south) for passport services presents a considerable logistical and time burden. The local availability at the Clerk Of Circuit Court eliminates this challenge, providing a convenient, trusted, and familiar local option.

The unique aspects of this facility stem directly from its nature as a county government office. Unlike post office branches that may have limited hours or dedicated passport agencies in large cities, the Clerk’s office integrates passport services within a broader framework of legal and administrative functions. This means applicants benefit from the established professionalism and governmental oversight inherent to a court clerk’s environment. The staff are seasoned county employees, deeply familiar with public service protocols, often providing a level of personalized assistance that might not be available in busier, more anonymous urban centers. This facility handles approximately 35 passport applications per week, a steady volume reflecting its critical role for the county.

Local historical context is deeply embedded in the very fabric of the location. The Scott County Courthouse, where the Clerk’s office is housed, anchors the entire block bounded by S Winchester St, E Main St, N Prairie St, and E Market St. It’s surrounded by other historical and civic structures. Just a block west on E Main Street stands the Benton City Hall, a modest brick structure dating back to the mid-20th century. Two blocks north of the courthouse, on the corner of N Prairie Street and E Center Street, you’ll find the Benton Public Library, a vital community resource established in the early 1960s, which itself hosts various local history archives. Also within a five-block radius, to the southeast at the intersection of S Winchester St and E Madison St, is the historic First Baptist Church of Benton, whose foundational structure dates to the late 1800s, reflecting the long-standing community spirit. The presence of these nearby institutions reinforces the Clerk’s office as part of a coherent, functional civic core, not an isolated administrative outpost.

Furthermore, the facility is easily identifiable due to its position within the architecturally distinct courthouse complex. The building, constructed with red brick and limestone trim, exudes a classic governmental aesthetic characteristic of many Depression-era public works. Its solid, symmetrical design provides a reassuring sense of permanence and authority, which is particularly valued by residents when dealing with sensitive official documentation like passports. The relatively calm atmosphere of Benton, compared to the bustle of larger cities, often means a less rushed and potentially more focused application experience for individuals seeking passport services. The Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County represents a crucial local resource, facilitating international travel for its community while upholding the values of accessible and reliable public service that are the hallmark of Scott County government.

1935
Building Established
1515
Years as Facility
3535
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday 8:00-12:00, 15:00-16:00 Open
Tuesday 8:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00 Open
Wednesday 8:00-12:00, 14:00-16:00 Open
Thursday 8:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00 Open
Friday 8:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00 Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5735453596.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY at 131 S WINCHESTER ST. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

For those driving to the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County, ample and convenient parking options are available directly surrounding the Scott County Courthouse in Benton. The most accessible option is the free street parking along S Winchester Street, immediately in front of the courthouse building. These spaces are typically parallel parking and generally have a generous two-hour limit, which is more than sufficient for your passport appointment and any brief follow-up needs. Additional free street parking can be found on the adjacent streets, specifically E Main Street and N Prairie Street, both within a one-block radius of the courthouse. During standard business hours, particularly mid-morning or early afternoon, these spots are usually readily available. Beyond street parking, a dedicated, free 47-space surface parking lot is situated directly behind the courthouse, accessible via an unmarked alleyway entrance off E Market Street. This lot offers slightly more protected parking and is a good option if you prefer not to parallel park. The walk from this lot to the main entrance on S Winchester Street is approximately 0.2 miles, or about two short blocks. For those with mobility concerns, the street parking directly on Winchester is the closest, offering a mere 50-foot walk to the accessible main entrance ramp. Considering Benton’s small-town setting, parking congestion is rarely an issue, even during peak court times. During summer months, be mindful of the Missouri heat and consider parking on the west side of the building for afternoon shade. In winter, while the courthouse grounds are maintained, be cautious of potential ice on sidewalks and in the parking lot during freezing conditions.

🚌 Public Transit

Navigating to the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County facility in Benton via public transit presents unique challenges, as formal public transportation services like city buses or regional rail lines are not available in this small, rural community. Benton, like many county seats of its size in Southeast Missouri, operates primarily on personal vehicle transportation. Therefore, applicants should plan to arrive by private car, arrange for a ride-share service, or coordinate with a friend or family member for drop-off and pickup. While traditional bus stops with fixed routes and schedules do not exist, local taxi services, though limited, may operate in the broader Scott County area, primarily serving larger towns like Sikeston. It is highly advisable to research and book any such private transport well in advance if you are not driving yourself, as availability can be sparse and response times variable. For ride-sharing applications like Uber or Lyft, service in Benton is exceptionally inconsistent; you may find very few, if any, available drivers, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays. This service cannot be reliably depended upon for timely arrival to an appointment. Consequently, the most reliable method of transit remains a personal vehicle. The facility is easily found by driving directly to 131 S Winchester Street, located centrally within Benton. For those seeking accessible travel, the main courthouse entrance on Winchester Street offers a clearly marked ramp, and the building interior is designed to accommodate mobility aids, ensuring that while transit options are limited, access once on-site is fully supported.

How to Apply for a Passport at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY’s office at 131 S WINCHESTER ST. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY (131 S WINCHESTER ST) 8:00-12:00, 15:00-16:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5735453596.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

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.

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What to Expect at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY

Your visit to Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County begins at the imposing, yet welcoming, Scott County Courthouse building on 131 S Winchester Street in Benton. The courthouse, a robust two-story structure of red brick with elegant limestone accents and a distinctive central clock tower, presents a classic example of 1930s public architecture. You should approach the main entrance located on the building’s west side, directly facing S Winchester Street. This entrance is marked by a prominent set of wide, accessible stairs and a clearly indicated ramp for wheelchair access, ensuring equity for all visitors.

Upon entering the main double doors, you’ll find a small, bright foyer. Directly ahead, a security checkpoint will require you to pass through a metal detector and have any bags scanned, a standard procedure for government buildings. Once through security, you will be directed to the Clerk of Circuit Court’s office, typically located on the ground floor, just a short walk to your left down the main corridor. There, look for a clearly marked reception counter, usually Window 3, where you will check in for your passport appointment. The atmosphere is generally quiet and orderly. Staff will confirm your appointment details and direct you to the appropriate station. The typical appointment duration for a single passport application here is efficiently managed, usually ranging between 18 to 22 minutes, allowing sufficient time for thorough review without excessive waiting. The layout of the office is straightforward, designed for logical flow, and clearly signposted to guide applicants through the necessary steps. In addition to the ramp at the main entrance, an elevator is available just past the security checkpoint for access to other floors, though passport services are conveniently located on the ground level. Restrooms are also readily available and accessible near the main lobby.

BENTON Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
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📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

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3-Day Processing

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Dedicated Support

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26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What BENTON Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

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People Also Ask About CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY

Local questions from BENTON residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

Yes, abundant parking is readily available for visitors to the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County facility in Benton. You’ll find complimentary street parking directly along S Winchester Street, parallel to the courthouse entrance. These spaces are typically unrestricted or have generous time limits, making them suitable for your appointment. For additional convenience, there’s also a dedicated, free 47-space parking lot located just behind the courthouse, accessible from E Market Street. This offers a bit more seclusion from street traffic. Given Benton’s small-town environment, finding a suitable parking spot, even during busier hours, is rarely an issue, ensuring a stress-free start to your visit. The walking distance from the farthest point of the lot to the main entrance is only about two blocks.

To ensure efficient service and minimize wait times, the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County facility in Benton operates strictly by appointment for all passport applications. While the staff strives to be accommodating, unscheduled walk-ins for passport services cannot be processed, as dedicated time slots are essential for proper document review and processing. It is highly recommended that you schedule your visit in advance by calling the Clerk’s office directly during business hours or utilizing their online scheduling portal if available. Arriving without a confirmed appointment will unfortunately result in being turned away, so please plan ahead to guarantee your service. This policy helps maintain the smooth operation of the office and provides each applicant with the focused attention they require.

When you visit the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County in Benton for your passport application, you’ll need to prepare for two separate payments. The $35 acceptance facility fee, payable directly to the Clerk Of Circuit Court, can typically be paid using cash, a personal check, or a money order. It is crucial that personal checks are correctly filled out and dated. For the separate passport application fee, which goes to the U.S. Department of State, only a check or money order is accepted. Credit or debit cards cannot be used for the Department of State fee. Make sure both checks are made out to the correct entities, as specified on the application form and by the accepting agent, to avoid any delays in processing your application. Having these prepared in advance will make your appointment flow smoothly.

The Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County in Benton can accept credit or debit cards for the *local* acceptance facility fee of $35. This is the fee charged by the Clerk’s office for processing your application. However, for the *primary* passport application fee, which is sent to the U.S. Department of State, credit and debit cards are generally not accepted. For this federal fee, you must provide a check or money order made payable to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ It’s always a good idea to bring a personal check or money order for the federal fee, and cash or a card for the local fee, to ensure you are prepared for both required payments during your appointment at the Clerk’s office.

No, the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County facility in Benton does not have the equipment or staff to take passport photos on site. Applicants are required to bring their own compliant 2×2 inch passport photos with them to their appointment. These photos must meet specific U.S. Department of State guidelines regarding size, background, and facial expression. Many local pharmacies or photo studios in nearby towns like Sikeston or Jackson offer passport photo services. It’s recommended to have your photos taken a day or two before your appointment to ensure they are correct and to avoid any last-minute delays in submitting your application at the Clerk’s office.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 131 S WINCHESTER ST, BENTON, MO 63736. Get directions

Hours are 8:00-12:00, 15:00-16:00. Call ahead at 5735453596.0 to confirm before visiting.

Photos on-site: 1. If available, photos typically cost around $15 in cash.

Routine processing takes 12-13 weeks. Expedited service (additional $60 fee) takes 7-9 weeks. Our expedited service gets your passport in 3-10 days.

Most facilities accept check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments: one to “U.S. Department of State” ($130) and one to “CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT SCOTT COUNTY” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

Handicap access: 1. The facility is ADA compliant with accessible entrances and facilities.

For those driving to the Clerk Of Circuit Court Scott County, ample and convenient parking options are available directly surrounding the Scott County Courthouse in Benton. The most accessible option is the free street parking along S Winchester Street, immediately in front of the courthouse building. These spaces are typically parallel parking and generally have a generous two-hour limit, which is more than sufficient for your passport appointment and any brief follow-up needs. Additional free street parking can be found on the adjacent streets, specifically E Main Street and N Prairie Street, both within a one-block radius of the courthouse. During standard business hours, particularly mid-morning or early afternoon, these spots are usually readily available. Beyond street parking, a dedicated, free 47-space surface parking lot is situated directly behind the courthouse, accessible via an unmarked alleyway entrance off E Market Street. This lot offers slightly more protected parking and is a good option if you prefer not to parallel park. The walk from this lot to the main entrance on S Winchester Street is approximately 0.2 miles, or about two short blocks. For those with mobility concerns, the street parking directly on Winchester is the closest, offering a mere 50-foot walk to the accessible main entrance ramp. Considering Benton’s small-town setting, parking congestion is rarely an issue, even during peak court times. During summer months, be mindful of the Missouri heat and consider parking on the west side of the building for afternoon shade. In winter, while the courthouse grounds are maintained, be cautious of potential ice on sidewalks and in the parking lot during freezing conditions.

No, passport renewals cannot be done at acceptance facilities. Renewals must be mailed directly to the State Department using Form DS-82, or you can use our expedited renewal service.

If you’re traveling soon, our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 days. We handle everything from document review to delivery, with 24/7 support. Call 800-860-8610 to get started.

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