Blount County Probate Office

Inside the Blount County Courthouse in the middle of downtown Oneonta, the Probate Office doubles as a designated passport acceptance facility. A trained acceptance agent on the records staff reviews your citizenship proof and identification, witnesses your signature on the DS-11, and seals the application for mailing to the State Department. It's a practical stop for county residents who would rather handle official paperwork at the courthouse than at the post office.

Because staff here are also managing deeds, marriage licenses and probate filings, calling ahead is the smart move — passport work is handled by a specific agent by appointment. Unlike the nearby Oneonta Post Office, the probate office does not take photos, so bring a compliant 2x2 photo with you. Ahead of your visit, the Alabama passport guide spells out the federal fees and which documents are accepted.

Ask for the passport acceptance agent when you call; passport service is handled separately from the general county line. There's public parking around the courthouse square. Adults renewing an unexpired passport (or one that lapsed within five years) can usually mail Form DS-82 instead — see the Alabama page for details.