Judge Woodall announces Fulton County Probate Court offers passport services

Paulding County residents can now obtain passports without leaving the county, thanks to new services launched at the Probate Court office located at 280 Constitution Boulevard in Dallas. This initiative, announced during a recent government meeting, aims to streamline the passport application process for local citizens.

Brad Bennett, the chief passport clerk, detailed the services available, including assistance with new passport applications for both adults and minors. While the office does not handle passport renewals, residents can apply for new passports, which are valid for ten years. The standard processing time is approximately five weeks for a fee of $130, while expedited services are available for an additional $60, reducing the wait time to just two weeks.

Judge Angela Woodall highlighted the demand for local passport services, noting that residents had frequently inquired about the availability of such services over the past few years. Previously, residents had to travel to neighboring counties, often facing mandatory appointment requirements at those locations. The new service in Paulding County not only eliminates the need for travel but also allows for walk-in appointments, making the process more accessible.

The establishment of this service involved collaboration with federal agencies, requiring an application process and the setup of a dedicated office space. This effort took several months to complete, but the result is a significant benefit for the community, providing a convenient and efficient way for residents to secure their passports.

With this new service, Paulding County is now the only location in the area offering passport applications, making it a vital resource for residents planning vacations or business trips. The Probate Court office encourages residents to take advantage of this opportunity and make their travel plans seamless.