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Houghton County Courthouse, located at 401 E HOUGHTON AVE, stands as a cornerstone of civic administration in Houghton, Michigan, a vibrant community nestled along the scenic Portage Canal in the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula. This historic edifice, an architectural gem dating back to 1887, extends its public service offerings to include crucial passport application acceptance facilities. Situated prominently in the East Houghton neighborhood, just a short walk from the bustling intersection of Shelden Avenue and Franklin Square, the Courthouse is a central point for residents seeking essential government services. Its position commands views towards the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, a distinctive local landmark connecting Houghton to Hancock.
The Courthouse primarily caters to the passport needs of Houghton County residents, a diverse demographic that encompasses students from Michigan Technological University and Finlandia University, seasonal workers in the tourism sector, year-round permanent residents, and professionals associated with regional industries. Individuals residing in townships such as Portage, Stanton, Osceola, and Adams often travel to this central Houghton location for their passport requirements. Given Houghton’s unique geographic isolation in the Upper Peninsula, this facility offers an invaluable local resource, saving applicants the significant travel time and expense to larger regional centers. For many, a trip to the Gogebic County Register Of Deeds Office in Bessemer, some 82.9 miles away, or even further to Crystal Falls, isn’t a practical option.
The Houghton County Courthouse’s role in the community extends beyond its function as a passport acceptance agent. It houses the County Clerk, Treasurer, Register of Deeds, and District Court, making it a frequent destination for a wide array of municipal business. This integration of services means that residents often combine multiple errands, such as registering a new vehicle, paying property taxes, or obtaining court documents, with their passport application process. The building itself is an enduring symbol of Houghton’s rich history, reflecting the area’s late 19th-century boom during the copper mining era. Its robust stone and brick construction, with intricate detailing characteristic of Romanesque Revival architecture, speaks to the enduring nature and importance placed on public institutions in the Copper Country.
Directly across E Houghton Avenue to the south, one finds the historic buildings of the downtown district, featuring local businesses and eateries. To the west, within a two-block radius, are popular spots like The Library Restaurant and Brew Pub, and the Portage Lake District Library on Montezuma Avenue, adding to the convenience for applicants who may need to fill time before or after their appointment. The proximity to these local amenities makes the Courthouse easily accessible for those walking from the Shelden Avenue commercial corridor or driving in from neighboring communities like Hancock, Chassell, or Dollar Bay.
What sets the Houghton County Courthouse apart as a passport facility is its commitment to personalized service, often characterized by the helpful and patient staff members who are well-versed in the intricacies of passport requirements. Unlike larger, busier facilities in metropolitan areas, applicants here often report a less hurried, more attentive experience, allowing for thorough review of documents and clarification of any uncertainties. This level of engagement is particularly beneficial for first-time applicants or those navigating complex renewal situations. The Courthouse’s established presence and its integration into the daily fabric of Houghton life mean it is recognized as a reliable and familiar point of contact for official business, including securing critical international travel documentation. The county’s population, while not immense, benefits immensely from having such a comprehensive and locally rooted passport service provider, supporting everyone from students preparing for study abroad programs to families planning international vacations, and even business travelers needing updated credentials.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 9064821311.0 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 HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE at 401 E HOUGHTON AVE. Easy access from major highways.
Parking for the Houghton County Courthouse is generally straightforward, though it requires specific attention depending on the time of day. The most convenient option is the metered street parking directly along E Houghton Avenue and Montezuma Avenue. These meters typically cost $1.25 per hour, operational from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, with a two-hour maximum stay enforced by the City of Houghton’s parking enforcement. Ensure you have quarters or use the Passport Parking mobile app to pay remotely. For longer appointments or if street parking is scarce, particularly during peak court hours (mid-morning to early afternoon), a free 35-space public parking lot is available on the north side of the courthouse building, accessible via Pearl Street. This lot often fills up quickly, so arriving at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled passport appointment is a wise strategy. Alternatively, a larger municipal parking deck, offering both metered and daily rates, is located about 2.5 blocks west on Shelden Avenue, near the Michigan Tech Research Institute. Daily rates there are typically $5.00. During winter months, Houghton experiences significant snowfall; street parking can be challenging due to snowbanks, and lots may have reduced capacity. Always allow extra time for parking, especially between November and April, and be mindful of snow removal notices if parking overnight on certain streets.
Public transit options directly serving the Houghton County Courthouse are somewhat limited but viable for local residents. The primary service is the Houghton Transit system, often integrated with Michigan Technological University’s bus routes, though these primarily serve students. A specific stop for the ‘Downtown Loop’ or ‘Green Line’ (check current schedules) is located on Shelden Avenue at Franklin Square, approximately a 0.3-mile walk (about 5 minutes) east from the Courthouse entrance on E Houghton Avenue. These buses generally operate weekdays from 7 AM to 6 PM, with service frequency ranging from every 30 to 60 minutes. A single ride costs $1.50, and monthly passes are available for frequent users. From the Shelden Avenue stop, walk east on Shelden for two blocks, then turn left onto Montezuma Avenue, continuing for one block until you reach E Houghton Avenue. The courthouse will be on your left. All Houghton Transit buses are wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps and priority seating areas. For those coming from Hancock, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge does have pedestrian walkways, and specific MTU Connector routes cross the bridge, dropping off near the Shelden Avenue corridor, making the courthouse relatively accessible by foot after disembarking. Always check the most current Houghton Transit schedule on their official website, especially before planning your trip, as services can vary seasonally or during university breaks.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE’s office at 401 E HOUGHTON AVE. 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 HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE (401 E HOUGHTON AVE) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 9064821311.0 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 →
Once you arrive at Houghton County Courthouse, you’ll find the main entrance situated prominently on the east side of the building, though some visitors often access it from the south side directly off East Houghton Avenue, which leads to the county clerk’s office. The building’s sturdy sandstone facade and classic arched doorways give it a distinct historical presence. Upon entering, typically through the main doors, you’ll be greeted by a quiet, well-maintained lobby area. Proceed directly to the Houghton County Clerk’s Office, usually located on the first floor. A clear sign directs you, or you can inquire at the information desk if one is staffed.
Check-in for passport services occurs at the main counter of the County Clerk’s Office. Simply inform the attendant that you have a passport appointment. They will verify your name and appointment time before guiding you to a designated processing window or a small, private office area. The staff here are known for their professionalism and efficiency. A typical passport appointment for a routine application lasts approximately 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all your documents are prepared correctly. The layout is straightforward, designed for public access to various county services. Accessibility features include a ramp at the eastern entrance and elevators to upper floors, ensuring the facility is welcoming to all visitors. Restrooms are conveniently located on the first floor. The environment is generally calm, reflecting the steady pace of a smaller county government office rather than a bustling urban center.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE versus using our expedited service.
While HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE 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. HOUGHTON COUNTY COURTHOUSE 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 HOUGHTON 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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