Ocean County will participate in the annual Passport Day in the USA and will waive the per applicant photo fee for all passport photos taken on March 9, announced Ocean County Clerk Scott M. Colabella.“Passport Day, which is March 9, marks the importance of having a passport and keeping them current,” Colabella said. “My office is pleased to join with the initiative created by the Department of State and participate in this national outreach and acceptance event.”

As part of the outreach event the Ocean County Clerk’s Office is waiving the $10 per applicant photo fee for all passport photos taken on March 9th.

In 2012, the Ocean County Clerk’s office helped in the preparation of 14,491 passports.

“I want to commend Scott and his staff for assisting residents who apply for passports,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director John P. Kelly, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Clerk’s Office. “Applying for a passport inOceanCountyis easy and convenient as a result of the efforts of theCountyClerk.”

On March 9, Passport Agents from the County Clerk’s County Connection Office (near JC Penney’s) located at the Ocean County Mall, Hooper Avenue, Toms River will assist applicants from 10 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. In addition, the County Clerk’s Office at the Ocean County Southern Service Center located at 179 South Main Street in Manahawkin will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to provide passport information and accept applications.

“We’re delighted to join with this initiative being held across the nation in participating in Passport Day in the USA to provide passport information, accept first time applications or provide renewal forms to the citizens of Ocean County,” Colabella said.

Information on costs and how to apply for a US Passport are available at www.oceancountyclerk.com the website for theCountyClerk or by calling (732) 929-2018 or (609) 597-1500. TLS.