Carbon to resume passport services
The Carbon County Prothonotary, Kayla M. Semmel, announced that effective Nov. 18, her office will reinstate passport services. Passport services were discontinued in March after the COVID-19 crisis began.
At this time and under the advisement of the commissioners, the office will prioritize Carbon County residents. Residents must make an appointment to have their passport processed by calling 570-325-2481. Individuals may renew their passports on their own. The prothonotary advises that all individuals show up to their appointment with the required documents and wear a mask.
In renewing a passport, at least one of the following will be needed in the original format and in addition with a photocopy of the front and back of the document.
• In-state, fully valid driver’s license
• In-state, fully valid non-driver ID
• Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
• Government employee ID (city, county, state or federal)
• U.S. military ID or military dependent ID
• Valid foreign passport
Ensure that you have one of the following original forms of U.S. citizenship and in addition with a photocopy of the front and back.
• Fully valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements: Issued by the city, county, or state of birth; lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth; lists your parent(s)’ full names; has the date filed with registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth); has the registrar’s signature; has the seal of the issuing authority; consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of naturalization; certificate of citizenship.
The sheriff’s office no longer provides passport photo services. Residents are advised to check with your local Rite Aid, Walmart, CVS or other retailers that may offer this service. You must have your photo taken prior to your appointment but within the past six months.
Semmel would also like residents to be advised that the current turnaround time for a routine passport from the Passport Agency is 10-12 weeks. You also have the option to expedite the service for an additional $60, and that turnaround time is 4-6 weeks.
Payment methods for the passport services are as follows:
• New passports (routine service) $110/adult, $80/under the age of 16. The fee must be paid by personal check or money order or $35 cash, money order or credit card (separate from above fees).