Is it possible to get a same-day passport? We outline your options for a quick renewal or replacement.

Some travel mishaps are minor and easily fixed, while others—like having an expired passport—can ruin your vacation before it begins. Most countries won’t let you travel with a passport that’s nearing its expiration date, leaving you in a tight spot if yours is close to expiring.

Our top recommendation is to take steps to prevent this situation altogether. At TPG, we advocate using calendar reminders to notify you when it’s time to renew your passport. However, you’re likely reading this because you’re concerned about your upcoming trip being at risk.

No matter your specific situation, we have helpful tips for your challenge. Here’s what you need to know to obtain a same-day passport and salvage your vacation.

Passport entry guidelines

Every country has specific passport validity rules, but the U.S. Department of State indicates that many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. To be on the safe side, it’s advisable to renew your passport before it reaches that six-month threshold, no matter your travel destination.

First-time adult passport applicants must submit their applications in person after collecting and organizing their passport application documents. Those renewing their passports have the option to apply by mail or online, although the online passport renewal system currently accepts a limited number of applications each day on a first-come, first-served basis.

Keep in mind that the passport application or renewal process can take up to two months, even with online renewal. Present passport processing times can range from six to eight weeks for standard processing and two to three weeks for expedited services.

If you can’t afford to wait two to eight weeks for your passport, you might qualify for an urgent passport appointment, provided you have international travel scheduled within the next 14 days, need a foreign visa in four weeks, or face a life-or-death emergency.

Is it possible to get a same-day passport?

In short, yes, but it can be challenging.

Same-day passport processing is only available in person at one of the State Department’s 26 passport agencies and centers. If you haven’t completed your passport application (which is necessary for both new applications and renewals), visit the Online Passport Appointment System to check your eligibility for a same-day appointment. If you meet the criteria, you will be prompted to enter your email and phone number to confirm your identity. After that, you can view a list of passport agencies and their appointment availability.

If you’ve already submitted your application, you can call 1-877-487-2778 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time on weekdays, or from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern time on weekends to request an appointment.

Regardless, same-day appointments (or even those available a few days later) are very limited, and you might need to travel quite far to secure one.

If there are no available appointments, you can discuss your situation with a State Department customer service representative, who may be able to facilitate a walk-in appointment at a passport agency. Keep in mind that the agency could be several hours away from your home, but desperate situations may call for such measures.

You will need to bring the following items:

• Your completed passport application or renewal form
• Your current passport (for renewals)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• Proof of identity
• Proof of booked travel
• A valid passport photo
• Your payment, including the $60 expedite fee

When you arrive, be ready for a long wait. You likely won't be the only one needing a same-day passport, so consider bringing headphones or a book to pass the time while you wait in line. Once it’s your turn, a clerk will check your application or renewal form and schedule a time for you to return later that day to collect your passport.

Upon your return, you might face another wait to pick up your passport, but it’s still preferable to missing your trip altogether.

Bottom line

While obtaining a same-day passport is possible, we advise against putting yourself through the stress. Keep track of your passport’s expiration date, and ensure you allow enough time for processing, whether you're applying for the first time or renewing an existing passport.

Securing a same-day passport can salvage your vacation—but it's not an ideal way to kick off your journey. Still, it’s wise to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.