Lake County Circuit Clerk Passport Office

The Lake County Circuit Clerk Passport Office, situated inside the historic Lake County Courthouse at 18 N County Street in downtown Waukegan, is a well-established acceptance facility for first-time and minor passport applicants. As the county seat of Lake County, Waukegan places this office at the civic heart of the region, steps from local courts, administrative offices, and the lakefront corridor.

Applicants here submit DS-11 forms in person, with staff from the Circuit Clerk's office processing paperwork and verifying supporting documents. The office accepts walk-ins for one or two applicants but strongly recommends appointments for families or groups of three or more. Passport photos are available on-site for a nominal fee, making this a convenient one-stop option for Lake County residents who prefer a government courthouse setting over a post office queue.

Being inside an active county courthouse means visitors should expect security screening at the entrance. Plan to arrive a few minutes early, bring certified copies of all required documents, and note that the office observes standard Lake County government holidays.

Lake County is home to a range of acceptance offices, giving residents flexibility. Whether you choose this courthouse location or one of the other spots in Waukegan, first-time applicants must appear in person. For a broader look at Illinois passport options, visit our Illinois passport offices guide. Additional Waukegan locations are listed on the Waukegan passport offices page.