DeKalb County Courthouse Passport Appointment Scheduling

For residents of DeKalb County, Georgia, obtaining or renewing a passport is a straightforward process, with the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office serving as a key passport acceptance facility. Scheduling an appointment at the courthouse ensures a smooth experience, whether you’re applying for a first-time passport or renewing an existing one. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to schedule a passport appointment at the DeKalb County Courthouse, including requirements, fees, and tips to streamline the process, making your travel preparations stress-free.

DeKalb County Courthouse Passport Appointment Scheduling

The DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office, located at 556 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030, is a certified National Passport Agency acceptance facility that processes passport applications for U.S. citizens. Unlike some facilities, the DeKalb County Courthouse offers walk-in services for passport applications, but scheduling an appointment is recommended to minimize wait times and ensure efficient processing. This section outlines the steps to schedule an appointment, required documents, fees, and additional considerations for first-time applicants, renewals, and special cases like minors or expedited services.

Overview of Passport Services at DeKalb County Courthouse

The DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office provides comprehensive passport services, including:

• First-Time Applications: For U.S. citizens who have never held a passport or whose previous passport was issued before age 16.
• Renewals: For adults (16 and over) renewing passports issued after age 16, though renewals can often be done by mail.
• Child Passports: For applicants under 16, requiring parental consent and in-person applications.
• Passport Photos: On-site photo services are available for a fee, typically around USD 15.
• Expedited Services: Available for urgent travel needs, with additional fees and faster processing times.

Key Features:

• No Appointment Necessary for Walk-Ins: The courthouse accepts walk-in applications Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but appointments are preferred for faster service.
• Special Events: The office occasionally hosts Passport Days, such as on Saturdays (e.g., September 30, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM), to accommodate higher demand.
• Contact Number: To schedule an appointment, call 404-687-3870.

Step-by-Step Guide to Scheduling a Passport Appointment

Scheduling a passport appointment at the DeKalb County Courthouse is straightforward, with options for both phone-based and online scheduling, depending on availability. Here’s how to proceed:

• Step 1: Determine Your Application Type:
  • First-Time Applicants: Must apply in person using Form DS-11, requiring proof of citizenship, photo ID, and a passport photo.
  • Renewals: Adults can renew by mail using Form DS-82 if their passport is undamaged, issued after age 16, and within 15 years. In-person renewals are required if these conditions aren’t met.
  • Minors: Children under 16 must apply in person with Form DS-11, requiring both parents’ consent or documentation.
• Step 2: Contact the Courthouse:
  • Call to Schedule: Dial 404-687-3870 to book an appointment, available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Provide your preferred date and time, and confirm whether you’re applying for a passport book, card, or both.
  • Online Scheduling (Limited): Check the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s website (www.dksuperiorclerk.com) for any online scheduling options, though phone scheduling is the primary method.
• Step 3: Prepare Required Documents:
  • Proof of Citizenship: Original or certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Copies are not accepted.
  • Photo ID: Valid driver’s license, state ID, or government-issued ID.
  • Passport Photos: One 2×2-inch color photo, taken within the last six months, with a white background and neutral expression. Photos can be taken on-site for a fee.
  • Parental Consent for Minors: Both parents must appear or provide a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) for children under 16.
  • Name Change Documents (if applicable): Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order if your name has changed.
• Step 4: Confirm Appointment Details:
  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early with all documents and payment (check, money order, or credit/debit card; cash is not accepted).
  • Appointments are typically scheduled in 20-minute increments, with a limit of four applications per appointment.
• Step 5: Attend the Appointment:
  • Visit the courthouse at 556 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030.
  • Submit your application, documents, and fees. The clerk will verify your documents and administer an oath for first-time applicants.
  • If needed, have your passport photo taken on-site.

Key Notes:

• Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments reduce wait times, especially during peak periods (e.g., summer or holidays).
• For urgent travel (within 14 days), contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 for expedited processing at a regional passport agency, as the courthouse does not handle same-day passports.

Passport Fees at DeKalb County Courthouse

Fees for passport services vary based on the application type, applicant age, and processing speed. Payments are split into two parts: the passport fee (paid to the U.S. Department of State) and the acceptance facility fee (paid to the courthouse).

• Adult Applicants (16 and Over):
  • Passport Book: USD 130 (first-time) or USD 130 (renewal by mail).
  • Passport Card: USD 30 (first-time) or USD 30 (renewal).
  • Acceptance Facility Fee: USD 35 (for first-time applications or in-person renewals).
• Child Applicants (Under 16):
  • Passport Book: USD 100.
  • Passport Card: USD 15.
  • Acceptance Facility Fee: USD 35.
• Expedited Service:
  • Additional USD 60 per application for 2–3 week processing.
• Passport Photos:
  • USD 15 (approximate) for on-site photos.
• Payment Methods:
  • Passport Fee: Check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
  • Acceptance Fee/Photos: Credit/debit card, check, or money order payable to “DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk.” Cash is not accepted.

Key Notes:

• Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
• Verify current fees on www.travel.state.gov or www.dksuperiorclerk.com, as they may change.

Processing Times for Passport Applications

Processing times depend on the service type and demand:

• Routine Service: 6–8 weeks from the date of submission.
• Expedited Service: 2–3 weeks, with an additional USD 60 fee.
• Urgent Travel: For travel within 14 days, contact a regional passport agency (e.g., Atlanta Passport Agency) at 1-877-487-2778. The DeKalb County Courthouse does not offer same-day processing.

Tracking:

• After submission, track your application status on www.travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• The courthouse will provide a receipt with tracking information.

Special Considerations for DeKalb County Passport Services

• Minors (Under 16):
  • Both parents or legal guardians must appear with the child or provide a notarized Form DS-3053.
  • Children’s passports are valid for 5 years, unlike adult passports (10 years).
• Lost or Stolen Passports:
  • Report the loss to the U.S. Department of State at 1-877-487-2778 or online.
  • Apply in person with Form DS-11 and a completed Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport).
• Name Changes:
  • If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, provide legal documentation.
  • Use Form DS-5504 for corrections within one year of issuance (no fee) or Form DS-11 for new applications.
• Passport Days:
  • The courthouse occasionally hosts Saturday Passport Days (e.g., September 30, 2023, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM) for walk-in applicants, ideal for those unable to visit during weekdays. Check www.dksuperiorclerk.com for upcoming events.
• Photo Services:
  • On-site photos are convenient but ensure compliance with U.S. passport photo requirements (2×2 inches, white background, no glasses or headgear unless for religious reasons).

Nearby Alternatives to DeKalb County Courthouse

If the courthouse schedule is full or inconvenient, consider other passport acceptance facilities in the DeKalb County area:

• Decatur Post Office:
  • Address: 160 Clairemont Ave, Decatur, GA 30030.
  • Appointment Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM; walk-ins on Wednesdays, 9:00 AM–10:00 AM.
  • Call 1-800-ASK-USPS to schedule.
• Atlanta Passport Agency:
  • Address: 230 Peachtree St NW, Suite 1000, Atlanta, GA 30303.
  • For urgent travel (within 14 days) or life-or-death emergencies (within 3 days). Call 1-877-487-2778 to book.
• Fulton County Clerk of Superior Court:
  • Address: 136 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
  • Appointments available until 4:00 PM; walk-ins accepted until 3:45 PM.

Tips for a Smooth Passport Appointment

• Schedule Early: Book your appointment 2–3 months before travel to account for processing times and potential delays.
• Prepare Documents: Bring all required documents (originals and copies) to avoid rescheduling. Photocopy services may be available at the courthouse for a fee.
• Arrive Early: Be at least 10 minutes early to allow time for check-in and document review.
• Check Holiday Closures: The courthouse is closed on federal and state holidays. Verify the 2025 holiday schedule on www.dksuperiorclerk.com.
• Use Expedited Service for Urgent Needs: If traveling within 2–3 weeks, request expedited processing and consider visiting the Atlanta Passport Agency for faster service.
• Confirm Photo Requirements: If bringing your own photos, ensure they meet U.S. standards to avoid rejection.
• Track Your Application: Use the tracking number provided to monitor your application status online.

Summary Table: DeKalb County Courthouse Passport Appointment Scheduling

Aspect	Details
Location	DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office, 556 North McDonough St, Decatur, GA 30030.
Appointment Scheduling	Call 404-687-3870; limited online scheduling via www.dksuperiorclerk.com.
Walk-In Hours	Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM; special Passport Days (e.g., select Saturdays).
Fees	Adult passport book: USD 130 + USD 35 acceptance fee; Child: USD 100 + USD 35; Expedited: +USD 60.
Required Documents	Proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport photo, parental consent for minors, name change documents (if applicable).
Processing Time	6–8 weeks (routine); 2–3 weeks (expedited); urgent cases via Atlanta Passport Agency.
Photo Services	Available on-site for ~USD 15.
Contact	404-687-3870; www.dksuperiorclerk.com.

FAQ: Common Questions About DeKalbumin County Courthouse Passport Appointment Scheduling

How do I schedule a passport appointment at DeKalb County Courthouse?
Call 404-687-3870 to book an appointment Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. You can also check www.dksuperiorclerk.com for any online scheduling options, though phone scheduling is primary. Walk-ins are accepted during the same hours, but appointments reduce wait times.

Can I get a passport photo at the DeKalb County Courthouse?
Yes, the courthouse offers on-site passport photo services for approximately USD 15. Photos meet U.S. passport requirements (2×2 inches, white background). Alternatively, bring your own compliant photos to save time.

What are the passport processing times at DeKalb County Courthouse?
Routine processing takes 6–8 weeks, while expedited processing (additional USD 60) takes 2–3 weeks. For urgent travel within 14 days, contact the Atlanta Passport Agency at 1-877-487-2778, as the courthouse does not offer same-day passports.

Conclusion

Scheduling a passport appointment at the DeKalb County Courthouse is a convenient option for residents of Decatur and surrounding areas, with the added flexibility of walk-in services from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. By calling 404-687-3870 to book an appointment, preparing all required documents, and understanding fees and processing times, you can streamline your passport application process. Whether you’re applying for a first-time passport, renewing, or seeking a child’s passport, the courthouse’s efficient services and occasional Passport Days make it accessible. For urgent needs, consider the Atlanta Passport Agency. Always verify details on www.dksuperiorclerk.com or www.travel.state.gov to ensure a smooth experience.