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How to Get a Passport in One Day

Anya Kartashova

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

You booked an international flight, applied for (or renewed) your passport and have patiently waited for the blue book’s arrival. Weeks have gone by, and there’s still no sign of your passport in the mail.

With an upcoming travel date approaching faster than Usain Bolt running toward the finish line in the 100-meter dash, you might be stressing about where your passport is and whether you can get a passport quickly should you need to shift gears.

If you’re wondering “Can I get a passport in one day?” The answer could depend on where you live. So if your passport hasn’t arrived or you forgot to send it in for a renewal, here’s what you need to know about passport processing times and 24-hour passports.

What types of passport services are available?

The U.S. Department of State offers four types of passport services: routine, expedited, urgent travel and emergency. The type of service depends on whether you have proof of confirmed travel dates and when you’re traveling.

Routine and expedited processing timelines are prone to change, while urgent and emergency processing remain set. Current posted processing timelines for routine and expedited service are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

Routine passport service is the slowest service available. This option is best for travelers who don’t have any international trips coming up within that time frame. To apply for a new passport or renew an existing one, you’ll need to submit your documents by mail or at an acceptance center , such as a library or post office.

Expedited passport processing still takes several weeks, according to the State Department. You’ll submit your application the same way you would for routine processing. Expect to pay a $60 fee on top of the routine passport fee for expedited service.

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Urgent travel

If you’re traveling internationally sooner than expedited processing will allow, you’ll want to select nonemergency urgent service to receive a passport in time for your trip.

If you’ve already applied for a passport and are within 14 calendar days of travel, you should call the National Passport Information Center to notify the processing agency of your upcoming travel. If you haven’t applied yet and are traveling within 14 days, you need to make an appointment to visit a passport agency in person.

If your international trip starts within five calendar days, you must schedule an appointment at a passport agency. You’ll also need to provide proof of travel. Keep in mind it can be tricky to get an appointment since time slots fill up quickly.

An emergency passport can be processed within 72 hours only if you have a qualifying life-or-death emergency. You must call a passport agency for one of these appointments and provide proof of international travel.

Qualifying life-or-death emergencies include:

An immediate family member has died.

An immediate family member is dying or in hospice care.

An immediate family member has a life-threatening injury or illness.

Immediate family members include parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings or grandparents.

You must get documentation of the emergency, such as a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary or a letter from the hospital. If the documents aren’t in English, you must have them translated by a professional translator. However, they don’t need to be notarized.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport to book an international flight?

How to make an appointment at a passport agency

There are a limited number of appointments available for applicants traveling internationally within 14 days or who need to apply for a visa within 28 days.

To make an appointment at a passport center for urgent travel, you must call 1-877-487-2778 (closed on federal holidays). For life-or-death emergency travel, call 1-877-487-2778 during the week or 1-202-647-4000 outside of business hours. You’ll receive unique confirmation information that only you can use on the day of your appointment.

Note that you can’t transfer your appointment time slot to another person. If you can’t attend, you must cancel by phone or by emailing [email protected] , and your time slot will be assigned to another person.

A passport agency appointment is free of charge. If you’re asked to pay for an appointment, it’s not a legitimate appointment. Walk-ins appointments aren't available.

Bring a completed passport application, a passport photo, a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, and payment for passport processing. Also, don’t forget the documentation required for one-day passport renewal, such as proof of travel and life-and-death emergency documentation.

» Learn more: What’s the passport photo dress code?

U.S. passport agency locations

If you need to rush your passport, you can make an appointment at one of the 26 U.S. passport agencies that are open to the public across the country. If the closest and most convenient location doesn’t have open time slots, check the next closest one to which you can drive.

For example, Los Angeles and San Diego are within driving distance.

us passport urgent travel proof

The U.S. passport centers are located in the following cities:

Aurora, Colorado.

Buffalo, New York.

El Paso, Texas.

Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Los Angeles.

Minneapolis.

New Orleans.

Philadelphia.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

San Francisco.

San Juan, Puerto Rico.

St. Albans, Vermont.

Stamford, Connecticut.

Tucson, Arizona.

Washington, DC.

For locations and operating hours, go to the passport agencies page on the State Department’s website and scroll down to the frequently asked questions.

Can you get a passport in one day?

If you’re trying to get a passport in 24 hours, know that it might not be easy. It could take longer to process your passport, even if you score one of the limited appointments at a passport agency.

Make sure to bring the exact documents required for a passport and ensure your photo follows the guidelines outlined by the State Department. Your trip is at stake, and you don’t want to mess this up.

» Learn more: Can you wear makeup in a passport photo?

As a last resort, contact your member of Congress

If you can’t get an appointment at a passport agency and all else fails, contact your U.S. representative's office. Believe it or not, they may be able to expedite the processing of your passport. However, you shouldn’t rely on this method — use it as a last resort only.

You still might not get your passport in one day, but it’s worth a try if you only have a week or two left before your trip, especially if you don’t live near a passport agency. Use a Google search to find out who represents your district and how to contact them.

How to get a passport in 24 hours

"Maybe" is the answer to “Can I get my passport in one day?”

The only way to get a same-day passport is by visiting one of the passport agencies — but only if you can get an appointment — and even that can take longer than 24 hours. The available slots are hard to come by, and you might be left behind while your travel companions jet off without you.

If you think you’ll travel in the future, we recommend applying for a passport now. And if you currently hold a passport, check its expiration date and renew well in advance to avoid having to scramble later.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

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How to Get a Same Day or Emergency Passport

Passport panic here’s how to navigate getting a passport in under 24 hours..

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Photo by Levi Ventura/Unsplash

Losing your passport, having it stolen, or realizing it has expired just before a trip can be a stressful experience. The State Department says it takes six to eight weeks for a standard passport application to be fulfilled in normal circumstances. However, due to a pandemic-related backlog , the current wait time for a passport is expected to be between 8 to 11 weeks . Even expedited passports are currently taking five to seven weeks to process.

Fortunately, there are ways to obtain a same-day or emergency passport that can help you get back on track and on your way. It won’t be easy, but it is possible. Provided you meet the criteria.

Here’s what you need to know about getting a passport in under 24 hours.

Can I get a passport in one day?

The short answer is, yes, you can get a passport in one day. But it will take time, patience, and immediate travel plans.

If it’s a life or death situation, apply for an emergency passport

To qualify for an emergency passport, you’ll need a genuinely life-or-death emergency that requires you to travel internationally. Per the Department of State , that includes having an immediate family member (defined as a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent) who has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury. And you’ll need to prove it with a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary, a letter from a hospital, or similar documentation. That document also needs to be in English (or at least it needs to be translated into English).

You’ll then need to go to one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies scattered throughout the country, which may not be convenient for most people. Those passport agencies are all located in major cities, such as Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia. It’s a good idea to call the Department of State helpline (1-877-487-2778) to make sure you qualify before traveling. Sometimes, the agent on the helpline can schedule an appointment for you, though if not, all of the agencies offer walk-in appointments. Keep in mind the number of walk-in appointments is limited and varies by location. If you’re able to get an appointment, you’ll also need to have a completed passport application, proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or a previously issued U.S. passport), a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license), a passport photo , and proof of immediate international travel plans.

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, use Urgent Travel service

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, there’s still a way to get a passport in one day. If you’ve already applied for a passport, but it hasn’t arrived in the mail, and your international travel is scheduled within five calendar days, you can use the Urgent Travel service . While it’s not technically an emergency passport, it is generally processed the same day. For this, you’ll need to make an appointment with a passport agency by calling 1-877-487-2778. This service is also available for those without a passport (and who aren’t currently waiting on an application to be processed) and have international travel planned within 14 days.

Last ditch effort: ask your elected member of congress to help

Another option is getting your elected member of Congress to help—some representatives, like Dianne Feinstein and Mike Crapo , share this shortcut on their websites, though success may vary.

How to speed up a passport application

If you have a few weeks and would prefer to put the task into professional hands, you might also consider using an expedited passport service.

Third-party expediter services, such as ItsEasy Passport & Visa Service or RushMyPassport , can assist with rushing your passport application. In a matter of days, they can submit your paperwork on your behalf, pick up your passport, and get it back to you when it’s ready. They charge an additional fee (on top of the standard passport application fee and expedited passport service fee). Still, they can often help navigate the ins and outs of the expediting process.

The fastest turnaround time RushMyPassport.com offers is one week for $799 or a two-week option for $599. ItsEasy Passport & Visa charges $45 for its four-week passport processing service and $895 for one-day service. “One- to three-day passport service requires urgent travel. Please contact us for details,” the agency advises.

However, keep in mind that these services have limited availability because expeditors also rely on the same small clutch of appointments being available.

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  • All The Proof Of Travel Needed For U.S. Passport Applications

Providing proof of travel may be necessary depending on what kind of passport service you need (new passport, renewal, minor, etc.). Knowing exactly which documents to provide can be overwhelming if you’ve never had to do this before. E specially  if you need a passport in a hurry.

Read on to discover exactly what proof of travel is and the documents currently accepted.

What  Is  Proof of Travel?

Proof of travel is generally only asked for if you need to arrange an appointment with a regional passport agency for an urgent passport. Or if you’re using a company to expedite a passport on your behalf.

No proof is necessary if you simply need to renew a passport or apply for a new one without any sudden need for the process to be completed urgently.

Acceptable Proof of Travel Documents

When asked, you’ll likely be provided with a list of acceptable documents you can choose from. These are:

  • Email confirmation or E-ticket from an airline
  • Airline reservation
  • A letter from your company or employer specifically outlining your need for an urgent passport. It must be signed by a company representative (other than you). Include your full name and job title
  • A reservation with the travel agency you’ve arranged your trip with

All of these documents must contain your name and date of departure from the U.S. To prove an urgent need for your passport, your departure date must be within two weeks of submitting your application.

Can’t Provide Proof of Travel?

Without proof of travel, you won’t be able to apply for a passport through a regional passport agency. To make an appointment, proof of travel is necessary, so without it, you won’t get far. The same applies when expediting a passport, regardless of which company you choose to go with.

It can be daunting to go ahead and book a trip without having a valid passport at hand, but doing this is the only way you’ll be able to start the application process.

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Proof of Travel

us passport urgent travel proof

Passports through the state department are currently taking 7-10 weeks to process, CIBT standard expedite is currently 3-5 weeks or 2-14 days expedite slots. The U.S. Department of State has 26 locations that issue same-day passports. To qualify for an expedited passport, you must travel within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is required) and have enough proof of travel.

The U.S. Department of State can only process a limited number of emergency passports a day. So, therefore, proof of travel is necessary. Many applicants do not feel comfortable booking a flight before they have their passport, but in most cases, it is not an option. Many applicants also cut it too close when applying through routine service and do not receive their passport on time. If there is an issue or delay with processing, you will miss your trip. We can offer expedited or mail in program.

Enough Proof of Travel

Plane ticket:.

A plane ticket must show you are traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary). The plane ticket must be issued by the airline or travel agent and show your name, travel date, and destination.

Hotel Reservation:

Hotel Reservations will suffice for Canada and Mexico only. The hotel reservation must show the name of the hotel, the applicant’s name, and the dates the applicant will be staying. This must also show you will be traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary).

Business Letter:

A business letter from your employer will generally suffice as proof of travel, but it depends on the agency. If an applicant is going to apply with a business letter, it must show the company’s name, the applicant’s position at the company, the country or countries you are going, and the dates of travel. The manager or a Human Resource specialist must sign the business letter . If an applicant applies using a business letter, it is also suggested the traveler also submit a signed statement explaining the reason for traveling.

It is important to note: provide a print-out of the itinerary for the appointment.  

Get Your Appointment

To apply at a local Passport Agency, you must request an appointment either online or over the phone. On the day of your visit, provide all the documents. Upon approval, you will have your new passport to travel. Contact your local agency by calling (877) 487-2778.

Private Expeditors

Since there are a limited number of Passport Agencies, many applicants cannot be seen in person. But there are third party expeditors, like Americanpassport.com , offering same-day passport service. Expediting services provide many benefits and are registered with the U.S Department of State. Ultimately, they will be submitting your application on your behalf, so there’s no need to be present at the agency yourself. It is important to note, proof of travel is still required when using an expediting service. Be sure you speak with your courier regarding the evidence of travel you will be providing, as different agencies have different requirements.

If you are outside the 14-day window to apply for an emergency passport but don’t think you have enough time to apply the usual way, it is always safer to wait until you can apply as an emergency. You are much more likely to receive your passport if you go to an agency or use an expeditor. However, always account for a delay in processing, so you must give yourself plenty of time when you apply by routine service.

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How to Get an Emergency Passport Renewal in 72-Hours or Less

Front of U.S. passport book with epassport symbol.

Emergency passport renewals are only available to travelers with a documented life-or-death emergency that requires urgent international travel within the next 24-72 hours. This express passport renewal option can be used to renew an expired passport or one that does not meet the validity requirement for the country you need to visit.

Some reasons your passport may not be valid include:

  • Your passport expired - You cannot travel abroad with an expired passport .
  • Your passport expiration date is too soon - Different countries have different rules about how much validity your passport needs to have. Some countries simply require your passport to be valid for the duration of your stay. Some countries require three or six months of remaining validity on your passport.
  • Your passport does not have enough remaining visa pages - You cannot add pages to a passport . As such, it's important to know how many blank passport pages countries require . This includes both countries you are traveling to and through.

In situations like these, you only have two ways to get your travel document quickly. You can either submit your application at a regional agency or you can request emergency passport renewal through an authorized expediting service .

In some circumstances, it is possible to get a passport renewal in 24 hours. However, processing delays can extend the wait time for an emergency passport to up to 3 business days.

Be Sure You Qualify for Emergency Passport Renewal

Be advised: you can only renew a passport if you meet the following criteria:

  • You still physically have your most recent passport . In addition to the passport application, fees, and supporting documents, you need to submit your previous passport when applying to renew it. This means a lost or stolen passport cannot be renewed.
  • Your last passport was issued within the past 15 years . U.S. passports are valid for 10 years. So, even if your passport is no longer valid, it can still be renewed as long as the expiration date is less than 5 years ago.
  • Your passport is not extremely damaged . The US Department of State will not accept excessively torn, burnt, mutilated, or water damaged passports for renewal.
  • You want to renew an adult passport book or passport card . A child's passport book or card does not qualify for emergency passport renewal. That said, there are expedited passport services for getting a child's passport quickly .

If your existing passport doesn't meet the requirements above, it is still possible to get emergency passport service. You need to follow this guide to getting a new passport in an emergency ; the instructions outlined below are only for an urgent passport renewal.

The Department of State approves emergency passport applications for new and first time passports as long as you can provide sufficient proof of your urgent travel needs. If you have an emergency that requires traveling internationally but don't qualify for a passport renewal, check out our guide to emergency passport service .

If you do not have proof of urgent travel plans, there are several other methods of US passport renewal that you should explore instead.

Again, be aware that getting a same-day or one-day passport renewal is typically only available to those who have sufficent proof of a life-or-death emergency.

What Qualifies as a Life or Death Emergency for Urgent Passport Service?

Per the U.S. Department of State website:

To qualify for life-or-death emergency service, your immediate family member must be a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent.

To be clear, other relatives such as aunts, uncles, cousins do not qualify for life-or-death emergency service. Furthermore, simply visiting another country for medical treatments or medication doesn't qualify, either.

Note : You will need to supply sufficient proof to the Department of State to qualify for this level of expedited service.

The process remains the same as getting an emergency passport renewal for urgent travel, with the exception being how you make the appointment.

  • On Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET), call 1-877-487-2778.
  • If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays, call 202-647-4000. This number is not for use between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays.

Emergency Passport Renewal at a Regional Agency

If you choose to attempt an emergency passport renewal on your own, know that there is no room for error. Even a simple mistake can delay your international travel.

There are three steps that must must happen in order for you to renew a US passport at a regional processing center.

Depending on the time of year and the passport agency you call, it may require several attempts to finally reach a representative.

A walk in appointment is possible, but it is a big risk-especially if you have an emergency. Calling to make an appointment ahead of time is a better choice.

  • Completed Form DS-82 - This is the standard U.S. passport application document for renewing an adult passport.
  • Your most recent passport - Again, passports must have been issued within the past 15 years and be relatively undamaged (normal wear and tear is acceptable).
  • One passport photo - Passport photos must be taken within the last 6 months and follow the passport photo size and content guidelines issued by the Department of State.

When applying in person at a passport office, you can pay your passport fees with cash (exact amount only), check, money order, or most credit or debit cards (including most pre-paid cards).

  • Name change documentation - If your name has been legally changed since you got your previous passport, you also need submit an official document to support this.
  • Evidence of travel - Most, regional agencies require evidence of travel if you are applying for emergency passport services. This is the only way you can get the fastest processing time.

Emergency Renewals through an Expedited Passport Courier Service

Applicants who do not want to take the time to make an appointment or who are unable to travel to the nearest regional agency, can authorize a registered expediter to submit the US passport renewal application form on their behalf. For some people, this is the fastest, and most cost-effective way to get emergency passports . It also reduces the risk of errors or delays.

To get emergency passport service through a passport expediting service, follow the steps below:

  • Complete the online application form
  • Send the following to the passport expediter:
  • Completed and signed form DS-82
  • Your current passport
  • New passport photos
  • Payment for all fees
  • Any proof of your emergency travel needs
  • Any additional documentation of legal name change

Since you need a passport so quickly, you should select same day passport service and send your documents using two-way overnight delivery like priority mail express.

At this point, you should receive a status update including projected processing times for your emergency passport renewal.

  • When the application has been processed, a representative will visit the agency on your behalf and pick up your renewed passport. It will then be sent to you by express mail.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service! .

Emergency Passport Service While Traveling Abroad

American citizens who are traveling abroad and need to renew a United States passport quickly due to an emergency can do this at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general. Emergency or limited-validity passports can be issued the same day. They are usually valid for one year but can be replaced before the expiration date for a full-validity passport at no additional cost. If you find yourself in this situation, you can find a U.S. embassy or consulate general here .

Emergency Passports for Minors

As mentioned previously, passports for a minor cannot be renewed-even in an emergency. However, you can still get a passport for a child quickly, whether there is an emergency need to travel or not.

There are a very unique set of steps you must follow. Check out our guide for expediting a passport for a minor .

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

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Consumer Rescue

Welcome to Consumer Rescue

Fiascos and Fixes

A U.S. passport on top of a white and brown world map

Yes, you can still get a new passport fast. This is how

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Michelle Couch-Friedman

Consumer reporter and ombudsman

April 7, 2023

Have you checked the expiration date on your passport recently? If you haven’t, and your plans for this summer include international travel, you better go have a look. Unfortunately, if you need a new passport, you won’t be able to get one fast using standard or expedited methods.  

As of March 24, the U.S. Department of State says the current processing time for a standard passport application is 10-13 weeks. Expedited applications are projected to take 7-9 weeks. However, based on our complaint files, these time frames are on the low end of the scale.

But there is still a way you might be able to get a new passport fast in 2023. I say “might” because this way is not for the faint of heart — it won’t be easy, cheap, or guaranteed.

Here’s how one determined traveler obtained a brand-new passport in just several days and how you can, too, if you’re up for the challenge. 

Here’s what to bring to your appointment

5 steps to get your passport fast with an urgent travel need, oops my passport expired — again.

Imagine your entire family is excitedly packing for your first international adventure since the beginning of the pandemic. You’ll soon be on your way to the Caribbean to relax and enjoy some sun and tropical drinks. 

Or will you? 

The traveler in this tale neglected to look at his passport’s expiration date until a few nights before his family’s trip. That’s when he was shocked to discover the document had expired – two years ago!

But no worries, he thought. Consumer Rescue could surely help him.

Why was this guy so confident about that, you might ask.

Well, that’s the embarrassing part of this story. 

The traveler in need of a new passport is my husband. The family, happily packing for the trip that was now in jeopardy, is mine. 

Worse, this isn’t the first time this husband of mine has found himself in this type of passport fiasco.

Can this trip be saved? (Hint: Not without a new passport)

As you can imagine, the mood in our household swiftly changed. As a travel ombudsman, I was well aware that in 2023, it’s nearly impossible to get a new passport fast. 

The U.S. Passport Service has been overwhelmed with the onslaught of applications as COVID restrictions around the world have lifted, and Americans are rediscovering their love of international travel.

Frankly, I was doubtful that we would be able to find a way to get my husband’s passport renewed in time for our trip. But this was a special vacation. We were traveling to St. Martin to celebrate my youngest daughter’s 18th birthday, and we were meeting friends and extended family on the island.

So I had to try to save this trip.

If I could snag my husband an appointment at a regional U.S passport office based on an “urgent travel” need, I knew, he could have his passport within hours. 

But I also knew those appointments are quite limited and are increasingly difficult to obtain.  However, living just outside of New York City gave us the advantage of being in close proximity to quite a few regional passport agencies. 

I hoped I would be able to secure an appointment for my husband at one of those passport offices. 

That turned out to be a lofty goal. 

Limited hours to call for an appointment at a U.S. passport agency

Our first obstacle: The hotline to make an appointment at a regional U.S. passport agency (1-877-487-2778) is only live Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Eastern Time).

It was Sunday night when my husband discovered his passport was expired and needed to be renewed. We wouldn’t even be able to begin to try to get an appointment until the next day.

I spent the evening scouring the internet to find out if there was any other possible way to get a passport fast. Bottom line: There isn’t. 

In past years, before the pandemic, passport expeditor companies were able to bypass traditional routes for renewals. For a $250 fee, these services would do all the work for the traveler and deliver a brand-new passport within hours. 

I know this because, as I alluded to above, this isn’t my husband’s first time overlooking his passport’s expiration date until an international trip was set to begin. 

What about those passport expeditor services?

Some years ago, we were taking my mother-in-law and niece to France for spring break. That is until he handed over an expired passport at the check-in counter and was denied boarding our flight. 

Just like the many travelers you’ve read about on this site who have been denied boarding international flights and cruises because of a missing or expired passport, it was soon clear that he wasn’t flying anywhere that night.

  • Carnival Cruises rejected me and my expired passport
  • No, you can’t fly internationally with a library card!

My husband headed out of the airport with a promise that he would try to meet us in Paris as soon as possible.

And I headed to the City of Lights with my mother-in-law. 

It was certainly not how I expected that trip to start out. 

American Express Travel Services directed my husband to a trusted passport expeditor in New York City, who quickly was able to get a new passport for him. He met us in Europe the next day. 

But those services don’t have any special clout in today’s post-pandemic world. The ones that still exist may just be preying on desperate travelers who have waited too long to renew their passports. 

Warning: On its site, The U.S. Department of State warns travelers that couriers and expeditors are not able to get you a passport any more quickly than if you apply at a U.S. passport agency. So beware if a company claims to be able to get your new passport fast for a hefty fee. 

In 2023, the only way to get a new passport immediately is the hard way… no shortcuts now. 

Getting an endless busy signal … and then success!

The Monday morning before our scheduled family trip to the Caribbean, I dialed the U.S. Passport Service’s number a few moments before 8 a.m. I got a busy signal. I spent the next half hour dialing the number over and over and getting a busy signal each time. 

Then… surprisingly… success. But only partial success. I was now connected to the scheduling system for an appointment at a regional passport office. However, there would be a lengthy wait to reach a human. 

The good news? The system counts down the minutes until you can expect to speak to a person. 

After about 45 minutes, there was a real agent on the phone. He asked a few questions about the nature of my husband’s urgent travel to confirm that the trip was imminent. 

The scheduler searched his database, first for appointments at one of the regional passport offices in a reasonable radius of New York City. Then gradually, his radius got wider and wider. Until finally, he explained that there were no appointments anywhere in the entire system for the next five days. 

There are 26 regional passport agencies across the United States that can process new applications fast.

The representative recommended that I try back in an hour because the system constantly updates. An appointment at one of the passport agencies could open up at any time, he advised.

Dejected, I hung up and redialed… and went through this same process five more times. 

I was beginning to think I was on a fool’s errand trying to get my husband a new passport in time for this trip.

You can get a new passport tomorrow – in Puerto Rico

But then several hours later – real success! 

The person on the line said that an appointment had just opened up the next day – in Puerto Rico. I quickly grabbed it. 

Then we spent the next several hours planning the logistics of flying from New York to San Juan for the passport appointment. Next, I filled out all the required documentation for his passport renewal. My husband went to CVS to get his new passport photos.  

And even though we were all flying to the Caribbean and it would seem like a convenient hop from Puerto Rico to St. Martin, it wasn’t. 

Because of last-minute unavailability of flights between the two islands, my husband had to book a flight back to New York to connect to a flight to St. Martin. 

Nothing about this trip was going smoothly.

Flying to a U.S. Passport office in Puerto Rico for an Urgent Travel appointment.

The next day, the girls and I flew to St. Martin to begin our vacation. My husband flew the 1,600 miles to San Juan and went straight to his appointment at the U.S. passport office there. 

At the passport agency, the agent required the following items to process the document that afternoon:

  • Proof of international travel within 14 days of the appointment
  • DS82 (previously completed passport renewal form) 
  • His expired passport 
  • A check or money order for the renewal fee ($130)
  • A check or money order for expedited processing ($60)
  • His passport photo

Then the processor gave my husband a ticket to return later that day to pick up his new passport. From start to finish, it took about six hours.

Note: The in-person fees for a passport renewal are the same as for an expedited passport by mail ($130 application fee and $60 processing). But the extra flights and hotels involved in this fiasco tacked on an extra $1,500 to the vacation.

Soon my husband was on his JetBlue flight back to New York, where he would spend the night before boarding a United Airlines flight to St. Martin. 

Finally, after two days of traveling nearly 5,000 miles, he landed in St. Martin and joined us for the vacation that was already in progress.

The birthday girl waits for her dad to show up in St. Martin with his new passport.

1. Determine if you are eligible

You must have a confirmed international trip in the next 14 days in order to qualify for an appointment at one of the regional passport agencies. Note: You will be required to provide proof. 

2 . Call the National Passport Service

Here’s the tricky part: Scoring an appointment at one of the 26 regional passport agencies in the United States. There are limited slots available, and you can only make an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. This number is operational from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday (Eastern Time). 

For the hearing impaired, the number is 1-888-874-7793.

If your passport needs are due to a life-or-death situation, you can call 202-647-4000 during hours in which the above lines aren’t open. Do not call this number if you don’t have a life-or-death problem.

Note: Make sure that your appointment is in your name. You can’t use someone else’s appointment, and the passport agencies do not accept walk-ups. You will be rejected at the door if you try to use someone else’s appointment.

3. Print out and complete your passport application ahead of time

Before you show up at your appointment at the U.S. Passport Service’s regional office, print out the application and complete it. These Passport forms can be found here on the U.S. Department of State website.  (P.S.: Bookmark that page, and you can also track your passport’s progress as well.)

4. Bring all the necessary documents with you to your appointment

Remember to bring your current passport, a check or money order, your passport application or renewal form, your photos, and proof of your imminent international travel. 

5. Return later in the day and pick up your newly minted passport. 

It will be a few hours before you’ll be able to pick up your new passport, so plan accordingly.

The Bottom Line

Waiting too long to renew or apply for a passport in 2023 can be an expensive and anxiety-provoking fiasco. For most travelers, it’s too late to renew your passport in time for an international summer vacation. 

The good news is that there are plenty of beautiful destinations – even tropical ones like Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands – you can visit without a passport until the U.S. Passport Service is less inundated with requests. 

Of course, you can also consider taking a closed-loop cruise if you don’t have a current passport. But proceed with caution, as cruising without a passport comes with its own perils.

  • This is what happens if you miss your cruise without a passport

As for me, I’ve got another ten years before I have to worry about my husband and his next passport fiasco. 😝  (Michelle Couch-Friedman, Consumer Rescue)

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How to get your passport faster for summer travel

The current wait time for a routine passport is now about 10 to 13 weeks.

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  • Jennifer Graham Kizer
  • July 11, 2023

For several months now, it’s taken longer than usual to get an American passport. Like many problems, the pandemic is at least partly to blame.

When COVID-19-related travel restrictions were lifted, lots of people were ready to go — planning trips abroad and contacting their passport offices to get the right documents make them happen. Last March, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a House Appropriations subcommittee budget hearing that the government was facing an “unprecedented demand” for passports. Meanwhile, many passport offices have been hindered by staff shortages.

MORE :  How to Get Compensation From Airlines for Delays, Cancellations

Because they’ve been receiving 500,000 applications a week — 30% to 40% more applicants this year than last year — the current wait time for a routine passport, which is usually six to eight weeks, is now about 10 to 13 weeks. And while you used to be able to pay an extra $60 to get it done in two to three weeks, nowadays even an expedited passport takes seven to nine weeks. So what do you do if you need your passport sooner than that? That depends on just how quickly you need it.

Here are the options for getting a passport, depending on your time frame.

us passport urgent travel proof

MORE: This new 116-day world cruise visits 26 countries and 6 continents

How to Get a Passport If You Are Traveling 4 Months or More from Now

You can go through the regular steps, and you should receive your passport on time.

For a first-time passport, you must go in person to a passport acceptance facility. You can find the one closest to you (and whether or not you need to make an appointment in advance) on the State Department’s passport facility page . Visit this State Department website to find out what documents you need and the fees you’ll have to pay. Make sure you read through all the instructions carefully, as you must have all documentation (no exceptions). After your in-person visit, you can track your application status online.

If you need to renew an expired passport , it may be possible to renew it by mail or even online. Here is where to find out if you’re eligible for mail-in service and what you’ll need to do.

MORE: Why you need AirTags or Tile trackers for your luggage

How to Get a Passport in a Few Days if You Have an Emergency-related Reason to Travel

Say you have a family emergency and absolutely need to travel abroad within three days. This can be done, but you’ll have to submit your application in person to one of the 26 regional passport agencies across the U.S. They can do same-day application processing with their life-or-death emergency service, but you need to give an urgent reason for traveling.

A qualified life-or-death emergency is a critical illness, injury or death in your family (parent, child, spouse, sibling or grandparent) that requires you to be abroad within three business days. You will need to show some proof of the emergency, such as a death certificate or a letter from a hospital or medical professional on behalf of your sick or injured loved one. Learn more about life-or-death emergency appointments here .

This appointment needs to be booked ahead of time (no walk-ins) by calling the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778. Make sure you bring the completed passport application, photo, fees (the usual $130, plus $60) and proof of travel (an e-ticket, travel itinerary or hotel reservation). You will also need your Social Security card or your appointment confirmation number. After you go through the application submission process, you will have to wait for your new passport. Depending on the agency and the number of other applicants, it could take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.

MORE: TikTok’s traveling grannies will inspire you to book an adventure

How to Get a Passport Fast Without a Life-or-death Reason

You can also go to a regional passport agency for Urgent Travel Service. The process is similar to the one above (make an in-person appointment, have proper documentation, photo, fees, proof of travel, etc.), but there are two main differences: You don’t need to provide an excuse for Urgent Travel Service. And most passports are issued within eight business days, though the processing time can be up to two weeks.

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How to Arrange for a Third-party Service to Get Your Passport Fast

Depending on how far you live from a regional passport agency, getting an expedited passport can be time-consuming and a hassle. (You have to schedule the appointment, get to the location, stand in a possibly very long line to submit your application, wait for it to get processed, return to pick it up and travel home again.) And if your nearest regional passport agency is fully booked, you might need to go to a different one in another state.

But there are third-party companies called passport expeditors (or passport courier services) that charge a fee to complete and submit your passport application for you.  They can both submit applications and serve as couriers for all the documents on the way there and the issued passports on the way back.

While an expeditor won’t necessarily speed up the processing time, the service has connections within the passport agencies and are in close proximity to them. So, if you live a several hours drive from one of these regional agencies, a passport agency can probably get your passport faster than if you went to the regional passport agency on your own.

Expeditors charge anywhere from $150 for a two-week service to several hundred dollars for same-day service. And that’s on top of the government fees. Still, if not getting your passport in time means losing the money you’ve already spent on your international vacation, it might be worth it to secure this service. The U.S. Passport Service Guide recommends the expeditor service, Rush My Passport .

MORE:  Frequent flyer programs are changing, frustrating many customers

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Renew an adult passport

Find out if you can renew your passport or have to get a new one. Learn how to renew your passport by mail or in person in an emergency.

Renew early. Passport processing times  vary. And some countries and airlines deny entry if your passport expires in less than 6 months.

Determine if you can renew your passport

If any of the following are true, you cannot renew your U.S. passport and must instead apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11:

  • Issued before your 16th birthday
  • Issued more than 15 years ago
  • Damaged, lost, or stolen. Learn how to report a lost or stolen passport.
  • Issued in your previous name, and you do not have a legal document like a marriage license to prove your legal name change

If none of the above situations are true, you can renew your U.S. passport.

How to renew your passport and documents you will need

Passports can only be renewed by mail. Online renewals are currently paused. Because it can take up to three months to process your application, it is important to renew your passport before it expires.

Typically, you will need the following items to renew your passport:

  • You can fill out Form DS-82 online , or
  • Download Form DS-82 and fill it out by hand, or
  • Find your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency and pick up a copy.
  • Passport photo
  • Passport fee
  • Your most recent passport
  • Name change documentation, if necessary

Learn how to submit all your documentation and passport fees by mail.

Check with the Department of State to find out the current processing times for passport renewals .

If you need your passport quickly

Learn how and where to get your passport fast for emergency or urgent travel or to get expedited processing. The time it takes for each varies throughout the year, and there may be additional fees. Use the fee calculator or chart.

If you are outside the U.S.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate near you to request a passport while outside the U.S.

If you need to change your name or correct your passport

After you receive your renewed passport, if you change your name or find an error, you will need to get an updated one to reflect the change. The process, cost, and forms you need depend on how long you have had your current passport. Follow the steps from the State Department to change your name or correct your passport.

Check the status of your passport renewal

Learn how to check the status of your passport renewal online . Or check its status by phone (call wait times may be long).

Be aware of passport expiration rules for your destination

Some countries and airlines will not allow a U.S. passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than 6 months. 

Check your destination country's U.S. passport expiration rules on the  Department of State's country information page .

  • On the left, search for the country name in the "learn about your destination" box.
  • On that country's page, look for "passport validity."

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

Have a question?

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Urgent warning for passport holders planning to travel in coming months

If you're planning a vacation soon, listen up as there's a warning for passport holders.

Irish passport holders are being urged to check the expiry date on their travel document before booking a trip .

Tanaiste Michael Martin issued an urgent warning for Irish passport holders planning to travel in the few months, reports the Irish Mirror . He said it takes 10 working days for a simple adult passport renewal.

Irish passport holders stunned as they spot 'hidden feature' they 'never noticed' before

Four things to check on your Irish passport before booking a vacation

Mr Martin said: "I would encourage anyone who is considering travel over the Easter break or this summer to check that their passport is in date, and to use Passport Online if they need to renew their passport or apply for the first time. Passport Online is the fastest and most convenient way to apply for your passport ."

Irish citizens can renew their passport before it expires with the Department of Foreign Affairs' Passport Online service. More than 200,000 passports have been processed in 2024.

An official said: "The Passport Service is successfully meeting high demand for passports with turnaround times at or well ahead of target and no backlogs."

According to the DFA, most passport applications involve the following five steps:

  • Application received: We have received your Passport Online application. We cannot process it until you send us, by post, the required supporting documents.
  • Alert: We have received your application. You must submit your supporting documents to proceed with the application.
  • Processing application: We have received your supporting documents. We are now verifying these documents.
  • Processing application: Your application is being processed.
  • Printing: Your Passport book is being printed. Any documents submitted will be returned separately.

The current passport turnaround times are:

  • 10 working days for simple adult online renewals
  • 15 working days for complex or child online renewals
  • 20 working days for first time online applications
  • 8 weeks for Post Passport (paper) applications

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .

More than 200,000 passports have been processed in 2024

Update January 10, 2024

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  • All children under age 16 must apply for a passport in person with two parents or guardians using Form DS-11.
  • You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
  • Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 
  • Use our  Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form and then print it.

February 2024: Forms for Special Situations

Please note that we are working to update the forms on this site. You may continue to use all forms on this site, including the ones with an expiration date that has passed. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11.

DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form online and then print it. The Form Filler will save time and reduce errors caused by handwriting. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF. Do not sign your child's form until instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 

Fill Out Form DS-11 Online

Please note :

  • The Form Filler will create the correct form for your child based on the data you enter. Double check the information you entered for your child's date of birth if you did not get the form you expected to receive.
  • Note : Include on Address Line 2 "In Care Of" your name or the name of the child's other parent or legal guardian. By providing “In Care Of” information, you will ensure that your child's passport is not returned to us if the delivery service does not recognize your child's name as someone who normally gets mail at your address.
  • Do not sign your child's application until instructed to do so by the acceptance agent.
  • If your child does not have a Social Security number, you must sign and date a statement that says, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: (Child's full name) has never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.”
  • You can apply for a passport book, a passport card , or both documents.
  • You may request a larger passport book with more visa pages for your child, at no additional cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.
  • In the Emergency Contact field, list a contact who is not traveling with your child. 

2. Provide U.S. Citizenship Evidence

Your evidence must be an original or certified, physical copy. A certified copy is any document that has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

  • Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
  • Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
  • Lists the parent(s)' full names
  • Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
  • Has the registrar's signature
  • Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. 

If you cannot submit one of the above acceptable documents for your child, or for more information, please see  Citizenship Evidence .

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : You will need to provide your child's evidence of U.S. citizenship to the acceptance agent or passport employee. We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Sample U.S. Birth Certificate

3. Bring a Photocopy of U.S. Citizenship Evidence

In addition to the original or certified copy of your child's citizenship evidence, you must submit a photocopy of the document. 

Photocopies must be:

  • On white 8.5”x11” standard paper
  • Black and white
  • Single-sided

If you don't want to submit a photocopy of your citizenship evidence, you may submit a second certified copy of your citizenship evidence, which we will keep. If you don’t submit a photocopy or a second certified copy of your citizenship evidence, your passport processing could be delayed.

4. Show Parental Relationship

You must submit documentation that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child applying for a passport. Examples include:

  • U.S. birth certificate ( also evidence of U.S. citizenship )
  • Foreign birth certificate
  • Adoption decree
  • Divorce or custody decree
  • A court order

Please note : Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name. If your name has changed from the name on the parental relationship document, please submit proof of your legal name change (example: marriage certificate or court order).

5. Present ID

The parents or guardians must present  one  of the following identification documents (IDs) to the acceptance agent: 

  • Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
  • In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
  • Certificate of Naturalization 
  • Certificate of Citizenship 
  • Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
  • U.S. military or military dependent ID
  • Current (valid) foreign passport
  • Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
  • U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
  • Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
  • Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
  • Note : you may be asked to present an additional ID when presenting one of these three documents: 1) In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo, 2) In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo, or 3) temporary driver's license with photo. 

If you cannot present one of the IDs above, or for more information, please see  Identification .

Please note:

  • Some states now issue  digital ID  documents (also known as mobile driver's licenses or mobile IDs). We cannot accept these digital IDs when you apply for your child's U.S. passport. You must continue to submit your physical, photo ID and a photocopy of the ID.  
  • If you present an  out-of-state  ID, you must present an additional ID.

6. Bring a Photocopy of ID

Submit a photocopy of the front and back of each ID that you present to the acceptance agent.

Requirements:

  • Photocopy must be on plain white, 8 1/2 x 11" standard paper.
  • Photocopy cannot be double-sided.
  • Do not decrease the image size (although you may enlarge it).

7. Show Parental Consent

  • Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child under age 16.
  • Both parents or guardians should go with the child to apply in person. 
  • If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to provide additional documents with your child's application: 

Note : Written authorization from the parent or guardian that cannot appear in person must be signed within 90 days before you submit the child's application.  

8. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo of your child. To avoid processing delays, be sure the photo meets all  our requirements .

  • Do not attach or staple your photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee accepting your child's form will review the photo and staple it. 
  • Some passport acceptance facilities provide photo services for an additional fee.  
  • We have special tips for taking photos of infants and newborns on our Photo Requirements page . 

9. Calculate Fees

You must pay fees for passport services. When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee.

Child Applicants :

Expedited service costs an additional $60. For information on forms of payment and a full list of fees and services, please see  Passport Fees .

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying in person at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

All other applicants must submit individual checks or money orders to the U.S. Department of State for their passport application fees. Please include the applicant's name and date of birth on the check or money order.

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10. Find Location to Apply and Submit Your Completed Application

Inside the United States:

  • You and your child must submit the completed application, including supporting documents, photo, and fees, in person at a  passport acceptance facility . Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment.
  • Your child may be eligible to make an appointment to apply in person at a passport agency if you are traveling soon. Please see Get My Passport Fast  for more information. 

Outside the United States:

Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

11. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

Note : It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” During these 2 weeks, your child's application is delivered to a mail facility, your payment is processed, and your child's application is scanned and sent to us. If your passport status update says “Not Available,” your child's application and supporting documents are safely on their way to us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i have to make an appointment to apply at an acceptance facility.

Some acceptance facilities (which include post offices, local government offices, and libraries) require appointments. We recommend contacting the acceptance facility  to confirm hours, forms of payment, and appointment requirements. 

How will you send my passport and supporting documents?

When completing your child's passport application, we recommend you add your name in the “In Care Of” part of the Mailing Address section on Form DS-11. After we print your child's passport, we will send it to you and return your child's supporting documents. How we send your child's passport and supporting documents depends if you applied for a book and/or a card and if you paid an additional fee for 1-2 day delivery.

After we print your passport, we will send it to you and return your supporting documents. How we send your passport and supporting documents depends if you applied for a book and/or a card and if you paid an additional fee for 1-2 day delivery.    

I applied for a passport book only : You may receive your newly-issued passport and your citizenship documents in two separate mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after receiving your passport before you receive a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We can send your passport book via a 1-2 day delivery service.

I applied for a passport card only : You may receive your newly-issued passport card and your citizenship documents in two separate mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after receiving your passport before you receive a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards via 1-2 day delivery services.

I applied for both a passport book and passport card : You may receive three separate mailings; one with your citizenship documents, one with your newly-issued passport book, and one with your newly-issued passport card. You may wait 8 weeks after receiving your passport book before you receive a second and third mailing with your passport card and citizenship documents.

Our address has changed. How do I update my child's application?

If the mailing address you provided on your child's application has changed and you're waiting the U.S. passport book, passport card, or return of citizenship evidence documents, please contact the  National Passport Information Center . You do not need to contact us if your address changed  after  you received your child's passport.

When completing your child's passport application, we recommend you add your name in the “In Care Of” part of the Mailing Address section on Form DS-11. 

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Passport Forms

DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport Fill Out Online   Download your PDF

DS-3053: Statement of Consent - Issuing a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16 Download your PDF

DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances - Issuing a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16 Download your PDF

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Mailing times are not included in processing times . Processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport in the mail after we print it. Consider the total time it will take to receive your passport when you are booking travel . 

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

External Link

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IMAGES

  1. What Is an Emergency Passport and How To Apply For It?

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  2. Finding the Right Proof of Travel to Expedite Your Passport

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  3. Get a Passport in a Hurry

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  4. Urgent Travel Verification Required for U.S. Passport Agencies

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  6. Urgent Passport Renewal

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Get my U.S. Passport Fast

    You must have an appointment to go to a passport agency or center. We cannot guarantee an appointment will be available. Call 1-877-487-2778. We will notify the agency processing your application of your date of travel. Processing times for routine applications are 6-8 weeks, and expedited applications are 2-3 weeks.

  2. Acceptable Proof of Travel Plan Documents to Expedite a Passport

    See below for a list of acceptable proof of travel documents. An electronic ticket or email confirmation from an airline. An airline reservation. A reservation with a travel agency (may be an online agency) A letter from your employer on company letterhead, specifying your need for a passport. Click here for more information and a sample letter.

  3. U.S. Passports

    Processing Times. Routine: 6-8 weeks*. Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*. *Mailing times are not included in processing times. Processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times.

  4. How to Get A Last-Minute Passport: Urgent Travel & Same-Day Passport

    The agencies will only make you an emergency appointment if you call within 14 days (or 21 days, if you need a visa to enter the country you're visiting) of travel. If your trip is 15 days away, you may not be able to make an appointment. The phone number for the U.S. Passport Agency is 1-877-487-2778.

  5. How to Get a Passport in One Day

    To make an appointment at a passport center for urgent travel, you must call 1-877-487-2778 (closed on federal holidays). For life-or-death emergency travel, call 1-877-487-2778 during the week or ...

  6. How to Get an Expedited U.S. Passport in 2023

    If you have a life-or-death emergency or urgent international travel coming up within 14 days, you can make an in-person appointment at one of the 26 passport agencies throughout the United States. You must have an appointment to visit an agency, and the only way to make an appointment is by calling 1-877-487-2778. You can also apply via mail.

  7. Finding the Right Proof of Travel to Expedite Your Passport

    Flight itinerary e-mail - This is the most common proof of air travel people use. In most cases, simply printing the flight's confirmation email provides all the essential flight information the passport agency will need to verify your trip. Original tickets or boarding passes - Bringing a hard-copy of the tickets for your flight (s) will ...

  8. U.S. passports

    Lost or stolen passports. If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S. Find out how to apply for or renew a passport for an adult or a minor under 18. Know what to do if a passport is lost or stolen.

  9. Applying for an Emergency or Urgent Expedited U.S. Passport

    Proof that you are traveling internationally in the next 3 business days, such as an itinerary or airline ticket. Urgent International Travel: The travel itinerary provided to the passport agency must show that the date of travel is within 14 days of the appointment Applicants must provide a confirmed flight receipt or an itinerary.

  10. How to Get a Same Day or Emergency Passport

    The fastest turnaround time RushMyPassport.com offers is one week for $799 or a two-week option for $599. ItsEasy Passport & Visa charges $45 for its four-week passport processing service and $895 for one-day service. "One- to three-day passport service requires urgent travel. Please contact us for details," the agency advises.

  11. All The Proof Of Travel Needed For U.S. Passport Applications

    These are: Email confirmation or E-ticket from an airline. Airline reservation. A letter from your company or employer specifically outlining your need for an urgent passport. It must be signed by a company representative (other than you). Include your full name and job title. A reservation with the travel agency you've arranged your trip with.

  12. Proof of Travel: What You Can Use as Proof of Travel

    The U.S. Department of State has 26 locations that issue same-day passports. To qualify for an expedited passport, you must travel within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is required) and have enough proof of travel. The U.S. Department of State can only process a limited number of emergency passports a day. So, therefore, proof of travel is ...

  13. How to Get an Emergency Passport Renewal in 72-Hours or Less

    The process remains the same as getting an emergency passport renewal for urgent travel, with the exception being how you make the appointment. On Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET), call 1-877-487-2778. If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal ...

  14. Need a Passport Fast? Here's How I Got Mine in Under 7 Hours

    Men's Journal. Need a Passport Fast? Here's How I Got Mine in Under 7 Hours. Story by Brittany Anas • 2mo. The U.S. State Department recommends applying for a passport at least half a year ahead ...

  15. Yes, you can still get a new passport fast. This is how

    5 steps to get your passport fast with an Urgent Travel need 1. ... Note: You will be required to provide proof. 2. Call the National Passport Service. Here's the tricky part: Scoring an appointment at one of the 26 regional passport agencies in the United States. There are limited slots available, and you can only make an appointment by ...

  16. How to get your passport faster for summer travel

    This appointment needs to be booked ahead of time (no walk-ins) by calling the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778. Make sure you bring the completed passport application, photo ...

  17. Renew an adult passport

    Passports can only be renewed by mail. Online renewals are currently paused. Because it can take up to three months to process your application, it is important to renew your passport before it expires. Typically, you will need the following items to renew your passport: Application - You will need Form DS-82.

  18. Frequently Asked Questions about Passport Services

    What counts as the "proof of international travel" required to apply at a passport agency? ... You should renew in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada if you have urgent travel within the next 4 weeks. ... If you are in the United States, we cannot issue you a passport unless you provide your Social Security number. U.S ...

  19. How to Get a Same-Day Passport

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  20. Urgent Passport Help! : r/travel

    I officially have an appointment with the passport agency for urgent passport renewal. I ended up booking a cheap hotel in Toronto 2 weeks from today. This way I was able to provide proof of international travel without risking 100's or 1000's of dollars and schedule an appointment using the hotel confirmation number.

  21. Urgent warning for passport holders planning to travel in coming ...

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  22. Apply for a Child's U.S. Passport

    Apply for a Child Under 16. All children under age 16 must apply for a passport in person with two parents or guardians using Form DS-11. You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82. Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. Use our Form Filler tool to fill out your child's form and then print it.