Hudson County Clerk’s Office – Jersey City, NJ

The Keeper of Public Records

The Hudson County Clerk’s Office, located in the Hudson County Plaza on Cornelison Avenue, serves as the primary record-keeping agency for the county’s 700,000+ residents. Led by the County Clerk, a constitutional officer elected by the public, this institution plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of property ownership, facilitating the democratic process, and documenting vital business activities. The office is essential for attorneys, new business owners, travelers, and voters alike, providing a secure archive for millions of documents dating back to the county’s founding. The facility is modern and designed to handle high volumes of public requests, though many services now require an appointment to ensure efficiency.

Elections and Voting Services

One of the Clerk’s most critical functions is the administration of elections. The Division of Elections prepares and prints all official ballots for primary, general, and school board elections. They are the primary point of contact for:

• Vote-by-Mail Ballots: Processing applications and mailing ballots to voters who cannot or choose not to vote in person.
• Candidate Certification: verifying petitions for county and local offices.
• Election Results: Tabulating and certifying the official results after the polls close.

Passports and Business Filings

The office operates as an official Passport Acceptance Agency for the U.S. Department of State. Staff assist citizens with applying for new U.S. passports, offering on-site photo services for a nominal fee. Note: Federal fees must often be paid by check or money order only. Additionally, the Clerk’s office handles:

• Trade Names: Registering sole proprietorships and general partnerships operating within Hudson County.
• Notary Public: Administering oaths for new notaries and certifying their signatures.
• Land Records: While the Register of Deeds (often a separate division) handles recordings, the Clerk’s system provides access to historical property data, maps, and liens.

Access and Visiting

Located at Hudson County Plaza, the office is easily accessible via major highways and local transit. Visitors should be aware that for services like passport applications and notary oaths, appointments are frequently required or highly recommended to avoid long wait times. Security screening is in effect at the building entrance.