Skip the guesswork and errors. Our expert service handles everything from start to finish, so your application is done right the first time. From $147—as fast as 3 days.
Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience
“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”
Sarah M. • WILKES BARRE, PA
“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”
Michael D. • WILKES BARRE, PA
“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”
Jennifer L. • WILKES BARRE, PA
Don’t risk missing your trip. Our expedited service guarantees your passport arrives on time.
We’ve helped 500,000+ customers since 1992. We’re so confident you’ll get your passport on time, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee. Need it fast? We get it done—no excuses.
Luzerne County Prothonotary, located at 200 NORTH RIVER ST, stands as a cornerstone institution within the judicial and administrative framework of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Situated prominently in the heart of the Downtown Wilkes-Barre district, just a block west of the historic Public Square, this facility plays a crucial role beyond its primary judicial functions by serving as a designated passport acceptance agent for residents throughout Luzerne County and beyond. Its strategic position on North River Street, directly adjacent to the iconic Luzerne County Courthouse, places it within easy reach of government offices, legal practices, and significant cultural landmarks, making it a highly accessible point of service for a broad demographic.
The Prothonotary’s office operates within the impressive Luzerne County Courthouse, a structure dating back to its cornerstone laying in 1906, officially opening its doors in 1909. This Beaux-Arts style building, with its grand marble interiors and intricate detailing, reflects the early 20th-century civic pride and architectural ambition of Northeastern Pennsylvania. While the building itself is over a century old, the Prothonotary’s role in passport acceptance is a more recent addition, initiated approximately 15 years ago to decentralize federal services and bring essential travel documentation closer to the citizens of Luzerne County. This initiative was particularly impactful for communities like Kingston, Forty Fort, and Hanover Township, which previously faced longer commutes to obtain passport services.
Historically, Luzerne County has been defined by its rich anthracite coal mining heritage, the Susquehanna River, and its resilient population. The courthouse complex, including the Prothonotary’s office, has witnessed significant historical events, from the widespread impacts of the 1972 Hurricane Agnes flood to ongoing urban revitalization efforts in the wake of the decline of heavy industry. The facility’s location on North River Street is particularly salient, as this thoroughfare runs parallel to the Susquehanna River and the River Common, a 7-mile recreational greenway that was extensively renovated and opened in phases from 2008 to 2010. This juxtaposition of civic duty and natural beauty contributes to the unique character of the area.
Demographically, the Luzerne County Prothonotary serves a diverse array of applicants. Local families planning international vacations or study abroad programs for their children frequently utilize this service, finding the downtown location convenient compared to facilities further afield. Students from Wilkes University, located just three blocks south on South River Street, and King’s College, approximately four blocks east on North Main Street, often visit to secure their first passports or renew existing ones for academic or personal travel opportunities. Additionally, professionals and business travelers from the greater Wilkes-Barre Scranton metropolitan area, including those from municipalities such as Nanticoke, Hazleton, and Pittston, find the courthouse a reliable and professional environment for processing their travel documents.
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the Prothonotary’s office offers a unique aspect in its direct connection to the county’s legal infrastructure. Staff members, accustomed to handling sensitive legal documents and adhering to stringent protocols, bring a high level of precision and diligence to the passport application process. This institutional rigor provides an added layer of assurance for applicants. The office is situated within five blocks of several key landmarks: the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts at 71 Public Square, the numerous shops and eateries around Public Square itself, and the Wilkes-Barre City Hall just a block east on East Market Street. The proximity to these central points of activity means applicants can often combine their passport appointment with other errands or enjoy a visit to downtown Wilkes-Barre. Whether an individual is obtaining a passport for an academic exchange in Europe, a family vacation to the Caribbean, or a professional conference in Canada, the Luzerne County Prothonotary stands as an authoritative and accessible resource for facilitating international travel, embodying the county’s commitment to its citizens’ global connections.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5708251745.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY at 200 NORTH RIVER ST. Easy access from major highways.
Parking near the Luzerne County Prothonotary facility at 200 North River Street requires some local knowledge, as options vary considerably by time of day and day of the week. Immediately adjacent to the courthouse complex, metered street parking is available along North River Street and sections of Union Street. These meters typically cost $1.50 per hour and are enforced Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While convenient, spaces can fill quickly, especially during peak court hours between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A more reliable option is the Park & Lock East Garage located at 53 North Main Street, approximately a 0.3-mile walk (about two blocks east) from the Prothonotary’s office. This garage offers hourly rates, typically $2 for the first hour and $1.50 for subsequent hours, with a daily maximum of about $10, and usually has ample spaces. Another viable choice is the Intermodal Transportation Center Garage at 35 S Washington St, which is slightly further, about 0.5 miles (a four-block walk southeast), and provides ample covered parking with similar hourly rates. For those visiting during the winter months, especially between December and March, it is advisable to utilize a garage to avoid snow accumulation and icy conditions on street parking. During summer, particularly July and August, street parking can be scarce due to downtown events, making garages the less stressful choice. Arriving approximately 20-30 minutes before your scheduled appointment is a sound strategy, allowing sufficient time to locate and secure parking without rushing, ensuring a calm start to your passport application process.
Public transit offers a practical alternative for accessing the Luzerne County Prothonotary, particularly for those coming from other parts of Wilkes-Barre or surrounding townships. The local transit authority, LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority), operates several routes that serve the downtown area, placing stops within close walking distance of 200 North River Street. Key routes such as LANTA Route 11 (serving the Wyoming Valley Mall area) and LANTA Route 14 (connecting Kingston and South Wilkes-Barre) have designated stops on Market Street, just one block south of the courthouse. The closest bus stop is often found near the intersection of Market Street and North River Street, requiring a minimal one-block northbound walk along North River Street to the Prothonotary’s office entrance. These routes typically operate with a service frequency of every 30-45 minutes during weekdays, from approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with reduced service on Saturdays. A single ride on a LANTA bus costs $1.75, payable in exact cash, or by using a reusable LANTA card. For those arriving at the Wilkes-Barre Intermodal Transportation Center (35 S Washington St), the Prothonotary’s office is approximately a 0.5-mile walk directly west on Northampton Street, then a right turn onto North River Street. All LANTA buses are equipped with accessibility features, including low-floor ramps and designated seating areas, ensuring easy access for passengers with mobility devices. Planning your trip using the LANTA website or a transit app is recommended to confirm real-time schedules and avoid delays.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY’s office at 200 NORTH RIVER ST. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY (200 NORTH RIVER ST) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5708251745.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
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.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
Entering through Luzerne County Prothonotary’s main doors, visitors are greeted by the grandeur of a public building designed for civic function and accessibility. The Prothonotary’s office, responsible for recording various legal documents and overseeing court proceedings, occupies a well-defined space within the broader Luzerne County Courthouse complex at 200 North River Street. Access typically involves utilizing the main public entrance on the north side of the building, identifiable by its large stone archway and prominent ‘Luzerne County Courthouse’ signage. Upon entering, visitors proceed through a security checkpoint, a standard procedure for all county government buildings, including a metal detector and bag scan. After clearing security, the Prothonotary’s office is located on the first floor. Direct your steps to the right as you exit the security area; a reception window, often marked as ‘Passport Services,’ will be clearly visible. Here, you will present your appointment confirmation and any initial documents for verification.
The waiting area is generally furnished with sturdy, comfortable seating, designed to accommodate a moderate number of visitors without feeling overcrowded, reflecting the organized nature of a court facility. The ambiance is professional and quiet, distinct from the bustling atmosphere of a post office. When your turn arrives, an attendant will call your name or direct you to a specific counter, likely window #3 or #4, dedicated to passport services. The passport application process at this facility is highly structured and efficient; typical appointment durations range between 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all documentation is properly prepared beforehand. Staff members are adept at reviewing forms, verifying identification, and administering the oath for the DS-11 application. For accessibility, the building features elevators to all floors, and the ground-level entrance with automatic doors ensures ease of access for individuals using wheelchairs or with mobility challenges. Restrooms are conveniently located nearby on the same floor.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY versus using our expedited service.
While LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. LUZERNE COUNTY PROTHONOTARY was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”
“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”
“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The WILKES BARRE post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”
Compare locations and find the most convenient option for your passport needs
1 additional location serving WILKES BARRE
Local questions from WILKES BARRE residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services
Zero errors. Expert handling. Real-time tracking. Your passport delivered on time, guaranteed—or we refund your expediting fee.
Get Started – From $147 →Available 24/7 • Call 800-860-8610