Jefferson County Clerks Office Passport Services

The Jefferson County Clerks Office primarily operates by appointment for passport services to ensure efficient processing and minimal wait times for all applicants. While walk-ins are generally discouraged due to staffing and scheduling, they may be accommodated on a limited, case-by-case basis if there is an unexpected cancellation or a brief lull in scheduled appointments. It is highly recommended to call the office at (865) 397-3941 before visiting if you do not have an appointment, especially during peak hours such as Tuesday mornings or Thursday afternoons. The staff strives to assist everyone, but priority is always given to scheduled applicants. Waiting for a walk-in slot could involve a significant delay, potentially several hours, depending on the day’s volume. Securing an appointment in advance guarantees your dedicated time with a passport acceptance agent.

The Jefferson County Clerks Office in Dandridge serves as a passport acceptance facility, meaning they primarily handle applications for new passports (Form DS-11) or renewals that cannot be completed by mail (e.g., if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago, was damaged, or you were under 16 when it was issued). For adult passport renewals (Form DS-82) where you meet the eligibility criteria to renew by mail, you will typically mail your application directly to the National Passport Processing Center. The Clerks Office staff can provide the necessary forms and guidance on whether you qualify for mail-in renewal, but they generally will not accept and forward a DS-82 application if it can be renewed by mail. Always verify your specific renewal situation with the Department of State guidelines or call the office for clarification before your visit.

For a United States passport, your photos must adhere to strict guidelines. The required size is 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), with your head centered and measuring between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper. You must have a neutral facial expression or a natural, slight smile, with both eyes open. No eyeglasses are permitted unless medically necessary (with a signed doctor’s statement). The background must be plain white or off-white. The Jefferson County Clerks Office does not offer on-site photo services, so it is crucial to have these prepared correctly before your appointment. Local pharmacies like the CVS on E Main Street in Dandridge often provide passport photo services that meet these specifications.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all minor passport applications at the Jefferson County Clerks Office, just as they are for adults. Furthermore, applying for a minor’s passport has additional requirements. For children under 16, both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child, present valid identification, and provide proof of parental relationship (e.g., birth certificate). If only one parent can attend, specific consent forms (DS-3053) and a copy of the non-applying parent’s ID are necessary. For minors aged 16 or 17, only one parent or legal guardian needs to apply in person with the minor, but the minor must present their own valid ID and proof of parental awareness or consent is often helpful. Due to the complexity and strict documentation requirements for minors, scheduling an appointment is essential to ensure all parties and documents are properly reviewed and accepted by the passport agent at the Dandridge facility.

No, the Jefferson County Clerks Office does not have the equipment or staff dedicated to taking passport photos on site. Applicants are responsible for providing two identical, recent, 2×2 inch color photographs that meet all U.S. Department of State requirements when they arrive for their appointment. It is highly advisable to obtain your passport photos from a professional service that specializes in passport and visa photos, such as local pharmacies or photo studios in the Dandridge area, to ensure they meet the stringent guidelines. Places like CVS Pharmacy on E Main Street, just 0.2 miles from the Justice Center, are reliable options. Having correctly prepared photos is a critical step in the application process, and missing this requirement will unfortunately cause delays or require you to reschedule your passport appointment.

The passport office is located at 760 JUSTICE CENTER DR, DANDRIDGE, TN 37725. Get directions

Hours are 8:00-18:00. Call ahead at 8653972935.0 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 “JEFFERSON COUNTY CLERKS OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Parking for the Jefferson County Clerks Office is relatively convenient and primarily free, a notable advantage in comparison to facilities in larger urban areas. The Justice Center complex offers a large, well-maintained asphalt parking lot immediately adjacent to the building’s north entrance on Justice Center Drive. This primary lot boasts approximately 85 designated spaces, including several accessible spots clearly marked closest to the entrance. During peak morning hours, particularly between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the lot can approach 70-80% capacity, but finding an open spot is rarely an issue. For overflow, or if you prefer a slightly quieter area, a smaller, auxiliary gravel lot with about 25 spaces is available on the west side of the Sheriff’s Office, roughly a 0.1-mile walk (approximately 2 minutes) along a paved sidewalk. Street parking on Justice Center Drive is not permitted to maintain clear access for emergency vehicles. There are no paid parking garages in Dandridge, making the free county lots the primary option. When planning your visit, especially during the summer months from June through August, be mindful of the intense Tennessee heat; choosing a shaded spot, if available, or arriving earlier can make your walk more comfortable. Conversely, in winter, between December and February, ice can be a concern on the asphalt, so caution is advised. Arriving 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled passport appointment is a solid strategy to secure a convenient parking space and make your way to the office without rushing.

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.