The Montgomery County Probate Court partners directly with the U.S. Department of State to assist customers with processing passport applications. While the Probate Court’s office acts as an application adjudicating agency, we are not the direct issuing agency of the actual passport. 

The U.S. passport renewal application is not accepted at the Montgomery County Probate Court locations; however, instructions on completing and mailing a U.S. passport renewal application can be found on the U.S. Department of State’s website at travel.state.gov

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You will need the following to apply for a U.S. passport:

1.   A completed DS-11 application

• Download DS-11 online at travel.state.gov
• Complete in black ink only
• Do not sign DS-11 until you are requested to do so by a passport acceptance agent

2.    Proof of Identity-Bring an original of one (1) of the following:

• Valid driver’s license
• Valid State identification card
• Naturalization certificate
• Government employee I.D.
• Official military I.D. card
• For minors: Under 16 years of age, both parents must be present and provide official consent.  If both parents cannot be present, go to travel.state.gov for more information.

3.    Proof of Citizenship-Bring an original plus one (1) photocopy of one (1)of the following documents:

• U.S. Birth Certificate or certified copy
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship

4.    Passport photo

• One (1) 2" x 2" color photo
• Photo must have been taken within the past six (6) months, showing current appearance
  • Must show full face, with neutral facial expression
  • Front view photograph with a plain white or off-white background
  • Taken between 1” and 1 3/8” from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
  • Taken in normal street attire.  Camouflage and uniform apparel is prohibited on a passport photo
  • No glasses
• Montgomery County Probate Court does offer a service to take a photo for an additional $12.00 fee

5.    Payment

Two (2) separate payments are required to process your U.S. passport application.  The first payment is the application fee which can only be paid by personal check, cashier's check, or money order made payable to U.S. Department of State. 

The second payment is the acceptance fee in the amount of $35.00 which can be paid by cash, debit card, credit card, certified funds, or personal check made payable to J. C. Love, III, Probate Judge.  

*NOTICE:  Fees and processing times are subject to change without notice, please refer to the U.S. Department of State’s website at travel.state.gov for the most up-to-date application fees and processing times

  COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.     How soon can I get my U.S. passport?

Due to mail service delays, routine service may take up to 18 weeks. Expedited service may take up to 12 weeks.  

2.     Can a 16- or 17-year-old apply for a U.S. passport without an adult present?

Children ages 16-17 with their own identification can apply for a passport by themselves; however, it is recommended that at least one parent appear in person with the child to identify him or her and to show parental awareness.

3.     What is the difference in a U.S. passport book and a U.S. passport card?

A U.S. Passport Book is valid for international travel by air, sea, or land. A U.S. Passport Card is valid when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports of entry. A PASSPORT CARD IS NOT VALID FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL BY AIR.

4.     How long is a U.S. passport valid?

U.S. Passports for adults are valid for ten (10) years. They are valid for five (5) years for minors under age 16.

5.     Can I get my U.S. passport processed at a Montgomery County Probate Court Office if I am traveling in less than 2 weeks?

No, however, you may contact the official U.S. Department of State’s website travel.state.gov.