If you are thinking about traveling out of the country and need a U.S. passport, please be aware that the U. S. Department of State has issued new processing timelines. As of October 29, routine processing is 8 to 11 weeks and expedite processing (for an additional $60) is 5 to 7 weeks. Processing times begin the day they receive your application at a passport agency or center, not the day you mail your application or apply for a passport at a local acceptance facility, like the Wheeler County Superior Court Clerk's office. As you probably already know, mail times vary across the country. Plan ahead and apply early. Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html for more information about passports. Remember that appointments are required with us here at the Clerk's office so that we can social distance. Call (912) 568-7137 to schedule your appointment. Appointments are available Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM., depending on court schedules. Be sure to have all the documents, photos, etc., that you need before you come in to avoid any further delays.