Expedited Passport Services

It's no secret that having a valid passport is crucial to any successful trip abroad, though it is also very useful for a variety of other situations that call for detailed identification. And due to heightened security restrictions, people of all ages must now carry passports to enter the United States. Nevertheless, those who find themselves in sudden need of a passport for themselves or a family member may be out of luck. The average processing and shipping time is more than six to eight weeks, and in some situations it can take even longer. Unfortunately, there are a variety of cases where the need for a last-minute passport arises, and understanding how expedited passport services work is key to making it happen.

Frequently Asked Questions ( 8 )   Add a Question

  1. Why does it take so long to get a passport?
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    Passports are incredibly detailed forms of documentation and cannot be printed as quickly as regular ID cards or driver licenses. The nature of them also requires verification of an applicant's background and citizenship status, which also adds to the process. Millions of people also apply for passports each year on top of this, thereby clogging the system.

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  2. What are expedited passport services?
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    United States passport agencies make it possible for applicants to obtain passports faster than usual, providing the applicants select "expedited" as opposed to "routine" service and give a valid reason for needing their passport quickly. This can be done at a passport facility itself, whereas passport renewals can be expedited through mail. There are also businesses marketing themselves as professional "passport expediters", but assessing their reliability can be challenging. Still, some people prefer to deal with them rather than directly with the U.S. government.

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  3. What is required for the application?
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    First-time applicants need to fill out the DS-11 form, and this wil require documentation for age, residency and proof of citizenship. Other applicants will need other documents depending on the circumstances for their new passport (name change, for example). For expedited services, proof of international travel (plane ticket, accommodations, etc.) is also needed.

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  4. What is required for a mail renewal?
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    The form "Renew a Passport by Mail" or DS-82 must be filled out and mailed in, with the words "EXPEDITED" printed clearly on the outside of the envelope. It is important to note, however, that all minors under the age of 16 must apply for a renewal at a facility and cannot do so via mail.

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  5. How long does it take to get an expedited passport?
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    Expedited passport services take usually two to four weeks to process. If no reason for expedited service is given, the process usually falls between 6 to 8 weeks. This, however, does not include mailing time. Those who wish to speed up the delivery process can opt for overnight delivery (at an additional fee). Passports issued in life or death situations may take just hours to a couple days to process, but these are for emergency cases only.

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  6. What if it is a life or death situation?
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    The State Department considers a "life or death situation" any emergency (injury, illness or death) involving immediate family that necessitates travel outside of the United States within three business days or 72 hours. These situations are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and making an appointment with a passport facility and coming prepared with the proper documents and application filled out is necessary. Applicants in these situations must also provide proof of the "life or death" emergency.

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  7. Is an appointment needed at a passport facility?
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    While not usually necessary for routine service, scheduling an appointment at a passport facility is crucial for expedited service. Online contact information for appointment scheduling and a list of regional agencies can be found on the State Department website, along with the necessary forms and list of required documents. Applicants can also call 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 to make an appointment.

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  8. What additional fees are involved?
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    Yes, there are additional fees. Passport agencies charge a $60 fee for expedited services, but it is important to understand that this is in addition to the already standard processing / application fee. Those selecting overnight delivery will also have to pay an extra $15.45.

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