For any international traveler, a passport is a necessity. So what happens when you discover your passport is expired right before a trip abroad? Don’t panic! You have options. Here’s how you can get a passport fast in the U.S., from standard expedited processing to emergency services.
How long is the current wait for a US passport?
There are four ways to get a new passport, and each has a different processing time. Anyone can apply for a new passport or renew their existing passport via routine and expedited services, but you will need to meet special qualifications to apply or renew via urgent or emergency services.
- Routine: 8–11 weeks
- Expedited: 5–7 weeks
- Urgent: Same day to 14 days
- Emergency: Same day to 3 business days
How long does it take to get an expedited passport?
Expedited passports take 5 to 7 weeks to process, and that doesn’t include shipping times. Shipping can add up to 4 weeks to the processing timeline.
How to apply for a new passport with expedited services
You will need to apply in-person at an official passport acceptance facility, if you are applying for:
- your first U.S. passport,
- your child who is younger than 16,
- renewing a passport that was issued when you were younger than 16,
- renewing a passport issued more than 15 years ago,
- applying for a new passport after your previous one was lost, stolen or damaged.
How to renew your passport with expedited services
If you are renewing an eligible passport (one issued to you within the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older), you can renew by mail. You will need to fill out Form DS-82 and:
- submit your most recent U.S. passport,
- provide a passport photo,
- pay a $130 application fee and a $60 fee for expediting,
- and mail everything via the United States Postal Service.
How to get a passport fast in case of emergency?
The U.S. Department of State offers life-or-death emergency appointments for those needing to travel internationally within 72 hours if an immediate family member has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening condition. In this instance, immediate family means parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings, or grandparents. You will need to provide documentation of the emergency, as well as proof of your international travels. For your appointment, you will need to complete the correct form, provide a passport photo, and present a valid form of ID.
Can you get a passport in one day?
Yes, the fastest passport renewal time is a same-day turnaround, but this service is only offered to individuals who meet certain criteria. You must be traveling internationally within 14 days, and you must be available to attend an in-person appointment at one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies across the country. Appointments are extremely limited, and you may need to travel across the country for one.
How to make an appointment to get a passport fast?
To make a life-or-death emergency appointment, call 1-877-487-2778 Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ET, or 202-647-4000 outside those hours. To make an urgent appointment for international travel within 14 days, you must call 1-877-487-2778 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm ET, and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm ET.
Our tips to be sure you’ll get your passport on time
- Check your passport’s expiration date before you book international travel.
- If renewing by mail, pay for faster delivery. This can reduce the overall timeline of your passport processing and shipping by up to four weeks.
- Be ready to book a last-minute flight for an in-person appointment. If you’re in a pinch, you won’t have the luxury of convenience. Appointments are very limited, and you may need to travel across the country for one.
Should you use a passport courier expeditor company?
Where to travel while you wait for your new passport?
If you don’t have a passport in your possession, you’re in luck. The U.S. has plenty of incredible destinations for your next vacation, no passport necessary.
- For culture: New Orleans, Louisiana, or Flushing, New York
- For nature: Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, or Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska
- For European flair: Solvang, California; Leavenworth, Washington; or Frankenmuth, Michigan
- For wine: Napa, California; Sonoma, California; or Walla Walla, Washington
Bottom line
It’s possible to get your passport fast, but you’re best off applying or renewing well in advance of your international trip!
Sources:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/courier-and-expeditor-companies.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html