Lake County Clerk of District Court

The Lake County Clerk of District Court occupies the 1935-era county courthouse at 106 4th Ave E in Polson — the governmental heart of Lake County, Montana. This office serves as an authorized U.S. passport acceptance facility, making it a natural option for residents who are already visiting the courthouse for other county business or who prefer a government office environment over a postal facility.

Acceptance agents at the Clerk's office can witness and process new adult and first-time child passport applications using Form DS-11. The office does not process passport renewals (Form DS-82), which are submitted by mail directly to the State Department. Two separate payment methods are required: one for the U.S. government fee and one for the clerk's acceptance fee — credit and debit cards are not accepted, so bring cash or a check.

Appointments are required; walk-ins are generally not accommodated. Call (406) 883-7214 to schedule. Because the Clerk of Court office serves many county functions, availability for passport appointments can be limited — plan ahead, particularly if applying in the spring before summer travel season begins on Flathead Lake.

Come prepared: bring all completed forms, required photocopies, and your passport photo before your appointment — agents will reschedule applicants who arrive without complete documentation. Payments must be made by two separate instruments (cash or check); no card payments accepted. For other acceptance facilities in the state, the Montana passport offices guide covers locations statewide, including the full Polson passport page.