Macoupin County Circuit Clerk Passport Services

Yes, absolutely, appointments are required for all passport applications processed at the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk, including those for minors. This policy ensures that the dedicated staff can allocate sufficient time to meticulously review all necessary documentation, especially considering the specific requirements for applicants under 16 years of age. Scheduling an appointment prevents extended wait times and allows the clerks to prepare for your visit, ensuring a streamlined process within the historic courthouse setting. You can typically schedule an appointment by calling the Circuit Clerk’s office directly during their regular business hours, usually Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, or through any online scheduling portal they might offer on the Macoupin County website. Confirming your appointment a day or two beforehand is always a wise precaution.

At the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk’s Office, applicants must be aware of the specific payment methods accepted for passport services. For the passport application fee itself, which is sent to the U.S. Department of State, only a check or money order is accepted. This payment must be made out directly to the “U.S. Department of State.” For the separate $35 execution fee, which is retained by the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk for processing your application, they accept cash, local personal checks, or money orders. While credit cards are widely used in commercial settings around Carlinville, such as at the CVS Pharmacy on East Main Street, government offices often have stricter payment protocols. It is strongly advised to come prepared with both a checkbook and sufficient cash or a money order to avoid any delays in your application process.

Yes, it is highly recommended and often a requirement for both parents to appear together when applying for a minor’s passport at the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk, especially for children under 16. This is part of the two-parent consent rule established by the U.S. Department of State to prevent international child abduction. Both parents must present valid government-issued identification and provide proof of their parental relationship to the child, such as the child’s birth certificate listing both parents. The child must also be present. If one parent is unable to attend, they must provide a notarized Form DS-3053, Statement of Consent, along with a copy of their valid ID. The dedicated staff at the Carlinville office are well-versed in these requirements and can provide precise guidance if you call ahead.

Processing times for passport applications submitted at the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk mirror the national averages set by the U.S. Department of State. As of November 2024, routine processing for a new passport book or card is averaging approximately 7 to 9 weeks from the date of application submission. For those requiring their travel documents more quickly, expedited service is available for an additional fee of $60 per application, reducing the processing time to roughly 3 to 5 weeks. It’s crucial to factor in mailing times to and from the passport agency, which can add a few extra days on each end. The clerks at 201 East Main Street will provide you with the most current estimates during your appointment and can also explain options for 1-2 day delivery if absolute urgency is required.

No, the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk’s Office in Carlinville does not offer on-site passport photo services. Applicants are required to bring two compliant, color passport photos with them to their appointment. These photos must meet specific U.S. Department of State requirements regarding size (2×2 inches), background (plain white or off-white), and pose (neutral facial expression, direct to camera). Fortunately, several convenient locations around Carlinville provide passport photo services. The CVS Pharmacy at 220 East Main Street, just two blocks east of the courthouse, offers this service, typically costing around $16-$18 for a set of two photos. Other local options may include certain photography studios or shipping centers. Ensure your photos are taken recently, within the last six months, to reflect your current appearance.

The passport office is located at 201 E MAIN STREET, CARLINVILLE, IL 62626. Get directions

Hours are 8:30-16:30. Call ahead at 2178543211.0 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 “MACOUPIN COUNTY CIRCUIT CLERK” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Convenient parking options surround the Macoupin County Circuit Clerk, all within comfortable walking distance of the courthouse at 201 East Main Street. The most straightforward choice is the free public parking lot situated directly behind the courthouse, accessible via a small drive-in from North Broad Street or from West First South Street. This lot typically offers around 40-50 spaces, and while it can fill up during peak court hours, it generally has availability for passport appointments, especially if you arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Metered street parking is also available along East Main Street and North Broad Street directly adjacent to the courthouse. These meters operate Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, costing $1.00 per hour, payable by coin or a local parking app. While usually ample, these spots are ideal for shorter visits. A free, unmarked municipal lot is also available two blocks north on North Plum Street, near the old Carlinville train depot, offering approximately 30 additional spaces. This is about a 0.2-mile walk to the courthouse. During winter months, particularly from December to March, ensure you allow extra time as snow removal can occasionally reduce available street parking, and sidewalks may be icy. In summer, shaded spots are at a premium, so consider the courthouse’s rear lot for sun protection.

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.