Cameron County Courthouse Passport Services

Yes, for all passport applications at the Cameron County Courthouse, especially those for minors, appointments are strictly required. This ensures that the Prothonotary’s office can allocate sufficient time for each family to complete the application process accurately, minimizing wait times and providing dedicated assistance. When applying for a minor, both parents or legal guardians must generally be present, along with the minor, to sign the application form DS-11 in front of the acceptance agent. If one parent cannot be present, specific notarized consent forms (DS-3053) are required, which the staff at 20 East 5th Street can clarify during your booking call. It’s highly recommended to call the Prothonotary’s office well in advance to schedule your appointment and confirm all necessary requirements, ensuring a smooth visit for your family.

Certainly, parking is conveniently available for visitors to the Cameron County Courthouse. The most straightforward option is the free municipal parking lot located directly behind the courthouse building, accessible from Cherry Street. This lot generally offers ample spaces, even during peak weekday hours. Additionally, you’ll find free street parking spots along East 5th Street, immediately adjacent to the courthouse, and also on South Broad Street and East 4th Street within a short walking distance. Unlike larger cities, Emporium does not have metered parking, so you won’t need to worry about feeding a meter. For those with early morning or late afternoon appointments, finding a spot directly on East 5th Street is usually quite manageable. During winter months, while the main lot is plowed, allow a few extra minutes for navigating snow or ice on the streets and sidewalks.

When it comes to payment for passport services at the Cameron County Courthouse, it’s crucial to be prepared, as payment methods are quite specific. The federal passport application fee, which is sent directly to the U.S. Department of State, must be paid by personal check or money order only. Unfortunately, credit cards, debit cards, or cash are not accepted for this portion of the fee. For the separate passport execution fee, which goes to the Cameron County Prothonotary’s office, you can typically pay with a local check or money order. It is always wise to confirm the exact acceptable payment methods with the Prothonotary’s office at 814-486-3351 when you schedule your appointment or call ahead, especially concerning the execution fee. Having both a checkbook and a money order ready ensures you can cover all necessary costs without any delays during your visit to 20 East 5th Street.

To ensure a successful passport application at the Cameron County Courthouse, you’ll need to bring several key documents. First, you must present proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original birth certificate (not a copy), a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or your naturalization certificate. Secondly, you’ll need a valid government-issued identification, typically a Pennsylvania driver’s license or state ID card. Third, a recent, color 2×2 inch passport photo, taken within the last six months against a white background, is required; remember, photo services are not available at the courthouse. Finally, you’ll need the completed but unsigned DS-11 passport application form. All these documents will be reviewed by the Prothonotary’s staff on the first floor at 20 East 5th Street. Having all these items meticulously organized will significantly streamline your visit.

Absolutely, it is highly encouraged for both parents to apply together for a child’s passport at the Cameron County Courthouse. This is the most straightforward method for fulfilling the parental consent requirements for minors under 16. When both parents are present, they can both sign the DS-11 application form in front of the passport acceptance agent in the Prothonotary’s office. Each parent should bring their valid government-issued identification, along with the child’s proof of U.S. citizenship and their passport photos. If only one parent can attend, that parent must present the other parent’s notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) and a copy of the non-applying parent’s ID (front and back). The staff at 20 East 5th Street are adept at guiding families through these specific requirements to ensure a smooth application process.

The passport office is located at 20 EAST 5TH STREET, EMPORIUM, PA 15834. Get directions

Hours are 8:30-16:00. Call ahead at 8144863349.0 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 “CAMERON COUNTY COURTHOUSE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Convenient parking for your passport appointment at the Cameron County Courthouse is readily available, primarily through free street parking surrounding the facility. East 5th Street, directly in front of the courthouse, offers several unmarked, complimentary parallel parking spots. While these spots are highly convenient, they can fill quickly during peak business hours, especially between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays. A more reliable option for securing parking is the public lot situated directly behind the courthouse, accessible via Cherry Street, which runs parallel to Broad Street one block west. This paved, approximately 30-space lot is free for public use and typically has more availability. From this lot, it’s a mere half-block walk to the courthouse’s rear entrance, or a 0.1-mile stroll around to the main East 5th Street entrance. Additionally, ample free street parking can usually be found along South Broad Street, just a block east of the courthouse, and East 4th Street, a block south. These areas provide supplementary options if the immediate vicinity is congested. For the best experience, especially for mid-morning appointments, planning to arrive 15 minutes early to secure a preferred spot is advisable. During winter months, typically from December through March, be mindful of snow accumulation; while the municipal lot is plowed, street parking spots might be reduced, and sidewalks can be icy. Summer visits, particularly in July and August, can mean warm temperatures, so consider parking closer if mobility is a concern.

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.