Cumberland County Prothonotary Passport Services
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Cumberland County Prothonotary – Passport Acceptance Facility
CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY – Quick Facts
- The Cumberland County Prothonotary is located at 1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE RM 100, on the ground floor of the historic 1930s courthouse in downtown Carlisle.
- Passport acceptance services are available by appointment only, typically Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
- Metered street parking is available on East High Street and North Hanover Street for $2.00 per hour, accepting ParkMobile Zone 1750.
- The Carlisle Parking Garage at 35 W Pomfret Street offers covered parking one block away for $1.50/hour, with a maximum of $8.00/day.
- Capital Area Transit (CAT) Route B and D buses stop within two blocks of the facility, providing convenient public transit access.
- Appointments are generally required for all passport services, ensuring dedicated time for each applicant.
- Passport photo services are not available on-site; applicants must bring two compliant 2×2 inch photos with a white background.
- The Prothonotary accepts new passport applications (DS-11) for first-time applicants, minors, and those with expired passports.
- Required documents include proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate), valid photo identification, and a completed DS-11 form.
- Fees are payable via two separate transactions: $35 execution fee to “Cumberland County Prothonotary” (cash/check/money order) and application fee to “U.S. Department of State” (check/money order only).
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CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect
The Cumberland County Prothonotary at 1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE RM 100 serves as the primary gateway for residents of Carlisle and the broader Cumberland Valley seeking new U.S. passports and renewals. Situated on the ground floor of the imposing 1930s-era Cumberland County Courthouse, a striking example of Neoclassical Revival architecture featuring Indiana limestone and intricate carvings, this facility is a cornerstone of the historic Downtown Carlisle district. For decades, the Prothonotary’s office has been an integral part of the county’s administrative fabric, expanding its services to include passport acceptance to meet the growing international travel needs of its citizens.
This particular location is strategically positioned within Carlisle’s vibrant town center, directly facing Courthouse Square, a central civic space that frequently hosts community events and farmers’ markets. The office’s accessibility makes it a convenient option for a diverse demographic. Local families residing in the tree-lined streets of the West Side and South Side neighborhoods often opt for this facility due to its proximity and familiar governmental setting. Students and faculty from Dickinson College, located just two blocks south on West High Street, frequently utilize the Prothonotary for their study abroad programs or international research, appreciating the streamlined process offered by a local entity. Military personnel and their dependents from the nearby Carlisle Barracks, home to the U.S. Army War College, also find this office to be a reliable and authoritative resource for securing their official travel documents, especially given the strict requirements associated with military-related international assignments. Moreover, the facility extends its reach to a significant rural population from townships like North Middleton, South Middleton, and Middlesex, for whom a trip to the county seat in Carlisle is a regular occurrence for various official matters.
The Cumberland County Courthouse, specifically where the Prothonotary’s office is located, holds deep historical significance for the region. It stands on a site that has been central to county governance since Cumberland County was established in 1750, a testament to the area’s enduring role in Pennsylvania’s development. The current edifice, completed in 1930, replaced earlier structures that witnessed pivotal moments from the American Revolution, including General Washington’s visit in 1794 during the Whiskey Rebellion, and the Civil War, when Confederate troops briefly occupied Carlisle in 1863. This legacy imbues the passport application process here with a sense of gravity and official importance. The building itself, with its grand marble halls and meticulously preserved historical details, offers an experience distinct from a typical post office or library. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by security, a standard procedure for all courthouse operations, before being directed to Room 100.
Unlike some municipal passport agencies that might feel transactional, the Prothonotary’s office emphasizes a personalized, thorough approach. Clerks are known for their meticulous attention to detail, guiding applicants through each step of the DS-11 form completion and document verification process. This level of support is particularly beneficial for first-time applicants, those applying for minors, or individuals with complex citizenship documentation. The office’s operational ethos is rooted in public service, reflecting the broader mission of the Prothonotary to manage civil court records and judgments. This extends naturally to the precise handling of sensitive passport applications, ensuring every submission meets federal standards.
The strategic location on Courthouse Square means applicants are within a short walking distance of several key Carlisle landmarks. Just across East High Street to the south, one can admire the historic Old Cumberland County Courthouse, a charming pre-Civil War structure now housing administrative offices, which provides a visual contrast to the more monumental 1930s building. Two blocks west, at 158 W High Street, the Bosler Memorial Library offers a quiet place for reflection or last-minute document checks, should an applicant arrive early. A quick stroll two blocks south from Courthouse Square leads to the expansive campus of Dickinson College, whose historic buildings like Old West and Weiss Center for the Arts contribute significantly to Carlisle’s academic and architectural character. For those seeking cultural enrichment, the Carlisle Theatre at 40 W High Street, a restored Art Deco gem, is just one block to the west, often showing classic films or hosting live performances. The Cumberland County Historical Society, located at 21 N Pitt Street, approximately three blocks northeast, serves as a repository for local history, offering a deeper appreciation for the community.
The Prothonotary’s office specifically targets a demographic that values governmental assurance and a structured application environment. While the Carlisle Post Office, located a mere 0.2 miles away on West Louther Street, also accepts applications, many residents, especially those dealing with more complex family applications or seeking detailed guidance, prefer the Prothonotary for its perceived expertise in legal documentation. This facility processes an average of 90-120 passport applications weekly, a testament to its efficiency and public trust. The typical applicant here includes college students preparing for study abroad semesters in Rome or Kyoto, local business owners attending international conferences in London or Tokyo, and families planning their first overseas vacation to Cancun or Paris. For these individuals, the Prothonotary offers a reassuring and competent environment for one of the most important civic tasks – securing their international identity document. The office maintains a consistent schedule, ensuring reliable access for residents throughout the typical workweek, avoiding the often unpredictable queues associated with more generalized government service points. The blend of historical gravitas, professional service, and micro-local accessibility firmly establishes the Cumberland County Prothonotary as a critical resource for passport services in Central Pennsylvania.
Complete Hours of Operation
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 7172406195.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Facility Details & Services
City Clerk Office
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Full Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Photos Available
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Appointment Policy
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Location & How to Get Here
🚗 From Downtown
Located at CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY at 1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE RM 100. Easy access from major highways.
🅿️ Parking Info
Parking near the Cumberland County Prothonotary on Courthouse Square requires planning. Metered street parking on East High Street or North Hanover Street, adjacent to the courthouse, is the most convenient for short visits. These meters cost $2.00 per hour and accept quarters, debit cards, or payment via the ParkMobile app (Zone 1750), active Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekends and evenings are free. Spaces directly in front of the Courthouse on East High Street are often occupied; better availability can be found a block north on Pomfret Street or a block east on Pitt Street, offering a walk of under 0.1 miles. For longer stays or during inclement weather, the Carlisle Parking Garage, situated at 35 W Pomfret Street, offers sheltered parking one block northeast of the courthouse. This 270-space facility charges $1.50 for the first hour and $1.00 for each subsequent hour, with a daily maximum of $8.00. The walk from the garage is a flat 0.15-mile along Pomfret Street to North Hanover Street, then south to Courthouse Square. During summer heat or winter ice, the garage offers significant comfort. Arriving 15-20 minutes prior to your passport appointment is advisable to secure a convenient spot, especially during peak morning hours between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
🚌 Public Transit
For those utilizing public transportation to reach the Cumberland County Prothonotary, Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides several convenient bus routes serving downtown Carlisle. While there isn’t a direct stop at Courthouse Square, several routes have stops within a comfortable walking distance. CAT Route B (Carlisle Circulator) and Route D (Carlisle – Harrisburg Express) are particularly useful. Route B stops at the intersection of West High Street and North Hanover Street, approximately one block west of the courthouse. Route D stops at the Carlisle Transit Center, located at 33 S Hanover Street, just two blocks south. From the West High Street and North Hanover Street stop, walk one block east on West High Street to reach Courthouse Square. From the Transit Center, walk north two blocks on South Hanover Street directly to the square. CAT buses typically operate weekdays from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with Route B offering service every 30-45 minutes and Route D on an hourly schedule during peak times. A single ride costs $1.75, payable in exact cash upon boarding, or a reloadable CAT card can be purchased. A day pass is available for $4.00, providing unlimited rides. All CAT buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifts, and priority seating is available for passengers with disabilities, ensuring full accessibility to and from the downtown Carlisle area.
How to Apply for a Passport at CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY’s office at 1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE RM 100. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Gather Your Documents
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Visit During Business Hours
Walk into CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY (1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE RM 100) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 7172406195.0 to check wait times.
Submit Your Application
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
Wait for Processing
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.
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What to Expect at CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY
Visitors to Cumberland County Prothonotary will find an organized, respectful environment within the historic 1930s Cumberland County Courthouse. Upon entering the main doors on Courthouse Square, which feature grand arched openings and heavy oak panels, you’ll proceed through a standard security checkpoint involving a metal detector and bag scan. After clearing security, Room 100, housing the Prothonotary’s office, is immediately accessible on the ground floor, just off the main lobby. The entrance is marked clearly with official signage. Inside, a reception counter with several service windows greets applicants. You should proceed directly to window number 3, specifically designated for passport services, or follow any posted instructions for taking a numbered queue ticket if a line is present.
The interior of the Prothonotary’s office maintains a functional yet classic aesthetic, with high ceilings, durable vinyl flooring, and original oak casework around the service windows. A modest waiting area with approximately eight to ten chairs is available for those awaiting their turn. Typical passport appointments are structured to be efficient, generally lasting between 18 and 22 minutes, assuming all documents are in order. The clerks are well-versed in federal passport regulations and will meticulously review your DS-11 form, citizenship evidence, identification, and any required parental consent forms. The process includes verifying your identity, administering the oath, and officially witnessing your signature. For applicants requiring accessibility accommodations, the Courthouse building is fully ADA compliant, featuring a ramp at the main entrance on East High Street, automatic door openers, and accessible restrooms on the ground floor. Elevators are available just past the security checkpoint for access to other levels, though the Prothonotary’s office is conveniently situated on the ground floor.
CARLISLE Passport Processing Times & Fees
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY versus using our expedited service.
Processing Times
Cost Breakdown
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Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
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Local questions from CARLISLE residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services
Frequently Asked Questions
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