Cape May County Clerks Office Passport Services

When you visit the Cape May County Clerk’s Office for your passport application, ensuring you have all necessary documents prevents delays. You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. For identification, a valid, government-issued photo ID like your New Jersey driver’s license or state ID card is required. Also, bring a photocopy of both the front and back of your ID, as well as a photocopy of your citizenship document (front and back if applicable). Don’t forget your completed DS-11 application form – but do not sign it beforehand, as it must be signed in front of a passport acceptance agent. Finally, you’ll need a recent 2×2 inch color passport photo that meets federal guidelines, taken within the last six months. Having these items organized will make your appointment at 7 North Main Street incredibly smooth.

Understanding the distinction between routine and expedited processing at the Cape May County Clerk’s Office is key for planning your travel. Routine processing is the standard service level, costing less but taking considerably longer, typically several weeks. This option is ideal if your travel date is far in the future and you have ample time. Expedited processing, however, significantly shortens the waiting period, usually to a few weeks, but comes with an additional federal fee of $60. This is highly recommended for applicants with urgent travel needs, such as a last-minute flight out of Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) or Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) within the next two months. While the Cape May County Clerk’s Office submits all applications promptly, the processing times themselves are determined by the National Passport Information Center, so choosing expedited service is the most effective way to speed up the federal review process after your application leaves our office.

No, the Cape May County Clerk’s Office at 7 North Main Street does not offer on-site passport photo services. This is a common practice for many county clerk facilities, allowing them to focus entirely on the application acceptance process. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that you arrive at your appointment with a pre-taken, compliant 2×2 inch color passport photo. You’ll want to ensure it’s a recent photo, taken within the last six months, with a white or off-white background, and that you are facing forward with a neutral expression. Several nearby businesses in Cape May Court House can provide this service, including the CVS Pharmacy located just a short walk north at 200 North Main Street, or local photography studios. Having your photo ready upon arrival will prevent any unnecessary delays to your passport application.

The Cape May County Clerk’s Office, located at 7 North Main Street in Cape May Court House, operates with specific hours for passport services that align with standard county administrative functions. Passport application acceptance is typically available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. It’s important to note that the office generally closes earlier for passport services to allow sufficient time for processing and submission of applications before the end of the business day. We strongly recommend confirming these hours by calling the Clerk’s Office directly at (609) 465-1010 or checking their official county website before your visit, especially around holidays or during severe weather conditions common in coastal South Jersey. Arriving well before the 3:30 PM cut-off, perhaps by 2:30 PM, ensures you have ample time to complete your application without feeling rushed.

The cost of a U.S. passport consists of two main fees: the application fee payable to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee payable to the Cape May County Clerk’s Office. For a new passport book for an adult (age 16 and over), the federal application fee is $130, and the acceptance fee, which you’ll pay separately at our 7 North Main Street location, is $35. Therefore, a new adult passport book totals $165. For a minor (under 16), the federal fee is $100, plus the $35 execution fee, totaling $135. If you also need a passport card, there’s an additional federal fee of $30 for adults or $15 for minors. Payments to the U.S. Department of State must be made via check or money order, while the $35 execution fee to the Cape May County Clerk’s Office can be paid by check, money order, or credit/debit card. All fees are subject to change, so verifying current costs on the Department of State’s official website is always a good practice before your appointment.

The passport office is located at 7 NORTH MAIN ST, CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ 8210. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 6094651010.0 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 “CAPE MAY COUNTY CLERKS OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking around the Cape May County Clerk’s Office at 7 North Main Street in Cape May Court House requires some planning, especially during peak seasons. The most convenient option is the free municipal parking lot situated immediately behind the courthouse complex, accessible via Court House Lane, just off North Main Street. This paved lot offers approximately 60 spaces and is typically 80% full during weekday business hours, but usually has open spots if you arrive before 9:30 AM or after 2:00 PM. From this lot, the walk to the Clerk’s Office main entrance is less than 0.1 miles, or about a 2-minute stroll across the grounds. Metered street parking is available along North Main Street and on adjacent cross streets like Mechanic Street, costing $1.50 per hour from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, payable via coin or the ParkMobile app. These spots have a 2-hour limit, which is generally sufficient for a passport appointment. During the summer months, from June through August, these street spots fill up quickly due to increased tourism and local activity; arriving 15-20 minutes early is advisable. In winter, icy conditions can make some spots less desirable, so prioritize the municipal lot. Always check signage carefully for any temporary restrictions, particularly around the Courthouse Green during special events.

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.