Prothonotarys Office Passport Services

At the Prothonotary’s Office in Bloomsburg, understanding the distinction between routine and expedited passport processing is crucial for managing your travel timeline. Routine service, as of November 2024, generally takes an average of 7 to 9 weeks, which includes both the processing at the passport agency and mailing times. This is the standard, lower-cost option. Expedited processing, on the other hand, significantly reduces this timeframe to approximately 2 to 3 weeks, reflecting a faster turnaround for those with more immediate travel needs. This quicker service comes with an additional federal fee of $60 per application, which is separate from the standard application fee and the $35 acceptance facility fee collected at our Bloomsburg office. While our staff can help ensure your expedited application is correctly submitted, the actual processing speed is determined by the U.S. Department of State, and we always advise adding a few extra days for mail delivery to Columbia County.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all passport applications involving minors at the Bloomsburg Prothonotary’s Office. This is a strict federal requirement for all children under the age of 16. Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the minor, present valid government-issued identification, and provide proof of parental relationship (e.g., birth certificate or adoption decree). If only one parent can attend, a consent form (DS-3053) from the absent parent, notarized and accompanied by a copy of their ID, is mandatory. For 16 and 17-year-olds, only one parent is typically required to attend, or the minor can present proof of parental consent or sufficient funds. Scheduling an appointment ensures that our dedicated acceptance agents can allocate the necessary time to meticulously review all documents, confirm identities, and witness signatures for these sensitive applications.

Many individuals assume they can renew their passports at the Prothonotary’s Office, but in most cases, adult passport renewals are handled directly by mail. You can renew by mail if your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and is in your current name (or you can document a name change). If you meet these criteria, you would complete a DS-82 form and mail it with your old passport, new photos, and the applicable fee directly to the National Passport Processing Center. However, if your passport was issued when you were under 16, is expired beyond 15 years, is significantly damaged, or you cannot submit it, then you must apply in person using a DS-11 form, just like a first-time applicant. In these specific circumstances, the Prothonotary’s Office in Bloomsburg can indeed assist you with an in-person application.

Regarding payment methods at the Prothonotary’s Office in Bloomsburg, it’s important to differentiate between the two separate fees involved in a passport application. The $35 acceptance facility fee, collected by our office, must be paid by check or money order made out to the ‘Prothonotary of Columbia County.’ Unfortunately, we are unable to accept credit cards or cash for this local fee. For the federal application fee, which goes directly to the U.S. Department of State, you must pay with a personal check or money order made out to ‘U.S. Department of State.’ No credit cards, debit cards, or cash are accepted for the federal fee either. We highly recommend having both payments prepared prior to your appointment to ensure a smooth and efficient process. There are several banks within a few blocks on Main Street, such as Wells Fargo or M&T Bank, where you can obtain money orders if needed before your visit.

If you find yourself in a situation requiring urgent passport delivery beyond the standard expedited processing times available through the Prothonotary’s Office in Bloomsburg, there are specific federal guidelines to follow. For travel within 2-3 weeks, you would apply for expedited service at our office. However, for travel within 14 calendar days (or 28 days if a visa is also required), you typically need to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. The closest agency for Bloomsburg residents is the Philadelphia Passport Agency, located at 144 South 6th Street. You must call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment and provide proof of imminent international travel. While our staff can provide the necessary forms and advice, direct urgent processing for such tight deadlines is handled at the regional level, designed for genuine life-or-death emergencies or immediate travel.

The passport office is located at 35 WEST MAIN STREET, BLOOMSBURG, PA 17815. Get directions

Hours are 8:30-15:30. Call ahead at 5703895614.0 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 “PROTHONOTARYS OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Prothonotary’s Office at 35 West Main Street in Bloomsburg requires careful planning, especially during weekday business hours. Metered street parking is available directly on West Main Street, priced at $1.00 per hour, enforced Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These spots tend to fill quickly, particularly between 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM. For a more reliable option, the municipal parking lot on Market Street, just two blocks east of the courthouse (behind the Capitol Theatre), offers 65 paid spaces at $0.75 per hour, with the first hour often free. This lot is a 0.2-mile walk, typically taking 3-4 minutes to reach the Prothonotary’s Office. Another viable option is the free 47-space municipal lot located off East 2nd Street, approximately three blocks south and two blocks east, adjacent to the Bloomsburg Town Park. While this requires a slightly longer walk of about 0.4 miles (6-8 minutes), it’s ideal for those seeking to avoid parking fees. During peak summer months, parking can be more competitive due to university events and local festivals; conversely, winter months bring fewer crowds but require vigilance for icy sidewalks and potential snow accumulation in street parking spaces. Always allow an extra 10-15 minutes to secure parking, especially for morning appointments.

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.