Real ID Deadline Looms: Mercer County Clerk’s Office Offers Passport Alternative

Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello reminds residents that passports and passport cards serve as Real ID alternatives for domestic air travel and federal facility access. 

Starting May 7, 2025, US citizens will need a Real ID–compliant driver’s license, passport, or other TSA-approved identification to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. 

While the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) issues REAL ID driver’s licenses, the Mercer County Clerk’s Office processes passport and passport card applications as valid alternatives.

“As the REAL ID deadline approaches, we encourage Mercer County residents to review their identification now to ensure seamless travel,” said Clerk Sollami Covello. “If a passport or passport card is the right choice for you, our office is ready to assist with the application process. Passport cards offer a great, affordable alternative and a quick way to ensure you’re prepared for travel and access to federal facilities.” 

Residents needing a passport or passport card are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the Mercer County Clerk’s Office to ensure timely processing. We provide passport services in two locations on a regular basis, in Trenton and at the Mercer County Connection Office in Hamilton. In Hamilton, services are by appointment only due to a significant increase in demand for passports. The hours and locations as well as fees are listed below:

Mercer County Connection Passport Service Hours
957 Highway 33, Hamilton, NJ 08690
Open: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday, Wednesday & Friday)
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday & Thursday)
10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Saturday)Trenton Office Hours
209 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08608
Open: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday)
8:00 AM – 6:45 PM (Wednesday)
Adult Passport (16 and older): $130 + $35 processing fee
Child Passport (under 16): $100 + $35 processing fee
Passport Card (Adult): $30 + $35 processing fee
Passport Card (Child): $15 + $35 processing fee* (Does not include photo fees)

*Under the new federal REAL ID regulations, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require one of the following forms of identification for air travel and access to federal facilities: A REAL ID- compliant driver’s license, a U.S. passport or passport card, or another TSA- approved form of identification, such as a DHS trusted Traveler Card.Please note: The Mercer County Clerk’s Office does not process applications for Real ID driver’s licenses. Those interested in obtaining a driver’s license Real ID must visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) website at www.njmvc.gov for application details.Please visit Mercer County Passport Appointments to schedule an appointment for Hamilton or call our main office in Trenton at 609-989-6465. We encourage applicants to review the required documentation prior to their appointment to ensure a smooth process. Detailed information, including required documents and fees, can be found on our website: Passports | Mercer County, NJ. 
With the deadline for Real ID fast approaching, Mercer County residents should act quickly to avoid any disruptions to their travel plans.