How to Track Your Passport Status for New Applications and Renewals

“Where’s my passport?” This is a common question many ask as they navigate the lengthy passport application process. The downside: it can take weeks or even months for applications and renewals to be processed. The upside: checking your passport status is straightforward. Here’s how you can easily monitor your passport status in just a few steps.

How can I inquire about my passport status?

Checking your passport status is incredibly simple, whether you're applying for a new one or renewing an existing passport. You can do this either online or by calling the National Passport Information Center. There are five possible statuses: in process, approved, passport mailed, supporting documents mailed, or not available. You can also opt for email updates regarding your passport status.

3 Easy Steps to Check Your Passport Status Online

Inquire About Your Passport Status via Phone

You can also reach the National Passport Information Center by calling 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY). Here are the operating hours:

Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm Eastern Time
Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Eastern Time
Closed on federal holidays.

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What should I do if my status shows as unavailable?

Your passport status may show as 'not available' for three main reasons:

Is the processing time different for first-time passports or renewals?

No, both new passport applications and renewals have the same processing duration. The procedures for tracking your passport status remain identical in either situation.

How long will my passport remain in the “in process” status?

In brief, it typically takes about one to three months, depending on the processing option you choose.

Typical processing durations

Routine: 6 to 8 weeks
Expedited: 2 to 3 weeks

Expert Tip: The listed processing times exclude shipping, which can add up to 4 weeks to the total duration from submission to receipt. You have the option to pay for expedited shipping to shorten this time.

What does it mean when my passport is marked as “in process”?

“In process” indicates that your passport application or renewal has been received by the processing center and is currently under review. The duration of this stage varies based on the service you selected and the current processing times.

What steps to take in case of an emergency?

If you need to travel internationally after submitting your passport application or renewal, contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY). If your travel is in more than 14 days, you can upgrade from routine to expedited service for an additional fee. For travel in less than 14 days, you may be able to schedule an in-person appointment for immediate passport service, though these appointments are limited.

Where can I travel while waiting for my new passport?

While waiting for your passport to be processed, you can travel anywhere within the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii. Additionally, you can visit U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

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Key takeaways

It's straightforward to check your passport status online. However, remember that the “in process” status can take several weeks or even months. If you need to speed up your passport application or renewal after submitting it, reach out to the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY).

How Dinogo compiles this guide

As a travel writer, having a current passport is crucial for my work. I am familiar with the ins and outs of applying for and renewing passports. For this guide, I conducted thorough research on the latest information from various government websites regarding passport status checks.