In a Rush for a New U.S. Passport? Here’s How to Expedite the Process

Whether unexpected travel plans have emerged or you're facing an imminent international trip, it's common for travelers to need to speed up their U.S. passport applications.

There are various scenarios that might necessitate an urgent passport renewal or application. For instance, some countries deny entry if your passport has less than six months of validity, while others, like South Africa, demand at least two blank pages in your passport. If you're unsure whether your passport meets flight requirements, consult the U.S. State Department’s website or reach out to your airline or travel agency.

Ways to Obtain a New U.S. Passport Quickly

Expedited Service: If you're traveling within the next seven weeks, you can apply normally and opt for expedited service, regardless of whether it's your first passport or a renewal. While you may have the option to renew your passport online, expedited processing is not available for that method.

Emergency Travel: If you face a life-or-death situation or have urgent international travel plans within 14 days, you can schedule an in-person appointment at one of the 26 passport agencies across the U.S. An appointment is required to visit any agency. You can book an appointment online or call 1-877-487-2778.

What is the processing time for an expedited passport?

As of March 2023, the standard processing time for passports was up to 13 weeks, but fortunately, times have stabilized and returned to normal. If you apply for expedited service directly through the U.S. State Department, expect a wait of two to three weeks. However, keep in mind that this timeframe excludes mail delivery. The State Department warns, “It might take two weeks for your application to reach us, and another two weeks for your passport to arrive after we send it,” which can vary based on your location in the U.S.

For quicker processing, consider using an expeditor like RushMyPassport.com, which offers expedited passport services ranging from two to four business days up to eight weeks after your documents are received by the State Department. Costs are $599 for the two-to-four-day service or $364.65 for a seven- to nine-business-day service.

Steps to Apply for an Expedited Passport

To begin your expedited passport application, visit the State Department’s website, where a useful checklist can help prevent mistakes that may delay your application. Here are the costs associated with an expedited passport:

• A $60 nonrefundable expediting fee, so ensure all details are accurate when applying.
• The standard application fee of $130.
• First-time applicants will incur an additional $35 execution fee.
• $21.36 for one- to two-day return delivery to expedite the process a bit.

To utilize expedited service, you must send your application via USPS Priority Mail Express. The State Department suggests using trackable mail so you can monitor when your application arrives and is processed.

If you prefer to apply in person for either an expedited or standard passport, locate a passport acceptance facility and schedule an appointment. These can be post offices, clerks of court, libraries, or local government offices. You can book an appointment at any post office through USPS.com. For a first passport or for a child under 16, you'll need form DS-11; for renewing a passport for someone aged 17 or older, use form DS-82 (available for download here).

Here are three key steps to follow when completing a passport application:

• Ensure that submitted forms are printed clearly on one side only.
• Fill out the application online before printing, or complete it by hand using black or blue ink; don’t forget to mark “expedited” on the envelope and include two recent photos that adhere to passport photo requirements.
• If applying by mail, include a check; for in-person applications, check the accepted payment methods at your designated acceptance facility.

You can renew your passport by mail and start the process online if you have your expired or expiring passport, it was issued when you were 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and was issued in your current name or you have documentation for a name change. For children under 16, first-time applicants, or those who have lost or had their passport stolen, in-person application is required.

If you’re unable to book an appointment online, you can call 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday.

Understanding the Role of an Expeditor

Expediting agencies are businesses that assist with urgent passport applications. They charge an additional fee on top of the standard passport application and expedited service fees, but can often help guide you through the complexities of the expediting process.

Services like RushMyPassport.com review your application before submission, identifying any errors or issues that could delay processing. Expeditors also have access to a limited number of appointment slots, so while RushMyPassport advertises a two to four business day turnaround, availability may vary.

David Alwadish, CEO and founder of ItsEasy Passport & Visa, mentions that expediting slots are quickly filled. Currently, ItsEasy charges $299 for their 10-day passport processing and $940 for same-day service. “One- to three-day passport service requires urgent travel. Please reach out for more information,” the agency advises. Those who prefer to handle it themselves can use the ItsEasy Passport App for standard application submissions.

If you need your passport within 24 to 72 hours, consider visiting an agency in person.

In the event of a life-or-death emergency, such as a serious illness, injury, or death in your immediate family, securing an emergency appointment at an agency in person is your only option. Walk-ins are not permitted; you must schedule an appointment in advance online or by calling 1-877-487-2778. Going in person can save you time, even if it means flying to a passport agency near your international flight's departure city. In such cases, processing may take between 24 and 72 hours, depending on your location and the acceptance of necessary documentation like a death certificate or medical statement.

A final piece of advice...

To avoid extra fees for expediting your passport, set a calendar reminder for nine months before your current valid passport expires. This gives you the opportunity to plan your travels and choose the best 10–12-week window to apply, ideally during a time when you won’t be traveling internationally. If you travel often enough that finding such a period is challenging, consider applying for a second passport.

This article was initially published in 2023 and most recently updated on July 11, 2024, to reflect the latest information.