Office Of The Bergen County Clerk Passport Services

At the Office Of The Bergen County Clerk, applicants must choose between routine and expedited processing for their passport applications. Routine processing is the standard service level, costing the base passport fee plus the $35 execution fee. As of November 2024, routine processing averages around 7.2 weeks, with variations depending on the Department of State’s workload. Expedited processing, however, incurs an additional $60 federal fee per application, significantly reducing the turnaround time. For expedited services, the average wait time is currently about 2.5 weeks from when the application is received at the passport agency. While the Bergen County Clerk’s office collects all fees, the actual processing is handled by the Department of State; the facility simply ensures your application is properly assembled and submitted to kickstart the chosen processing speed.

The Office Of The Bergen County Clerk primarily serves as an acceptance facility for new passport applications using Form DS-11, and for specific situations like applying for a child’s passport or replacing a lost/stolen passport. Generally, you cannot renew your passport directly at this facility if you are eligible to renew by mail using Form DS-82. Renewal by mail is applicable if your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and you can submit it with your application. If your situation doesn’t meet these criteria, you may need to apply in person with a DS-11 form, effectively starting a new application process rather than a renewal. Always double-check your eligibility for mail renewal on the Department of State’s official website before visiting the Bergen County Clerk’s office for a renewal inquiry.

If you find yourself in a situation requiring urgent passport issuance, the Office Of The Bergen County Clerk can process your application with expedited service, which currently averages 2.5 weeks as of November 2024. This involves paying an additional $60 federal fee, on top of all standard passport and execution fees. For truly emergent situations, such as documented life-or-death emergencies or imminent international travel (typically within 14 days), you would need to contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. They can guide you on scheduling an appointment at a regional passport agency, such as the New York Passport Agency or Philadelphia Passport Agency, which offers same-day or next-day service. The Bergen County Clerk’s office is equipped to submit your expedited application promptly, but direct urgent issuance is handled exclusively by these specialized agencies.

Once your passport application is accepted at the Office Of The Bergen County Clerk and mailed to the Department of State, you can track its status online. The primary method is to visit the Department of State’s official website and use their Online Passport Status System. You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to access the information. It typically takes about 7-10 business days from the date of your application at the Hackensack office for your status to become available online as the application needs to be physically mailed and entered into the federal system. The Bergen County Clerk’s office provides you with a receipt containing the mailing date, which can help you anticipate when your tracking information should appear. Remember, while the clerk’s office accepts the application, tracking is a federal function.

No, the Office Of The Bergen County Clerk at One Bergen County Plaza does not provide on-site passport photo services. Applicants are required to bring a compliant 2×2 inch passport photograph with them at the time of their appointment. It is crucial that your photo meets all Department of State requirements regarding size, background (plain white or off-white), lighting, and facial expression to avoid delays in your application. Many local pharmacies, photography studios, or even large retail stores in Hackensack and the surrounding areas, such as the CVS on River Street or Walgreens on Main Street, offer passport photo services that adhere to federal guidelines. It’s best to have your photos taken prior to your visit to ensure a smooth and efficient application process at the County Clerk’s office.

The passport office is located at ONE BERGEN COUNTY PLAZA ROOM #120, HACKENSACK, NJ 7601. Get directions

Hours are 8:30-16:00. Call ahead at 2013367011.0 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 “OFFICE OF THE BERGEN COUNTY CLERK” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Office Of The Bergen County Clerk at One Bergen County Plaza can be efficiently managed, though strategy is key, especially during peak county business hours. The most convenient option is the Bergen County Parking Garage, accessible via River Street or University Plaza Drive. This multi-level garage typically charges an hourly rate, often around $1.50 for the first hour and increasing thereafter, with a daily maximum usually between $10-$15. From the garage, the County Clerk’s office is a short, well-lit walk of approximately 0.1 to 0.2 miles, directly into the Plaza building. For those preferring street parking, metered spots are available along Court Street and some sections of Main Street. These meters generally cost $1.00 to $2.00 per hour and accept coins or payment via the ParkMobile app, often with a two-hour limit. Finding an open metered spot, especially on Court Street directly adjacent to the courthouse, can be challenging between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekdays, so plan to arrive early for appointments. The walk from these street spots to Room #120 is typically less than one block. Considering seasonal conditions, navigating the short walk from parking options to the building entrance is generally fine, but during heavy winter snowfalls, sidewalks can be icy, requiring careful footing. In the peak summer months, especially July and August, temperatures can easily exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, so arriving prepared with water or seeking shaded routes is advisable. Utilizing the county garage is often the safest and most reliable choice for a guaranteed spot and direct access.

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.