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How to Get a Passport in One Day

Anya Kartashova is a freelance writer and full-time traveler based in Salt Lake City. She has written about travel rewards and personal finance for FrugalTravelGuy, Fodor's, FlyerTalk, 10xTravel and Reward Expert. Her goal is to visit every country in the world by offsetting the cost with points and miles.

Kevin Berry works as the content lead for multimedia production at NerdWallet including YouTube, podcasts and social media videos across all financial topics. Previously, he was the Lead Editor for the Travel Rewards team. Prior to NerdWallet, Kevin managed the content and social media teams at NBC Sports in Portland for eight years. His prior experience also includes time as a financial analyst (Comcast) and business system analyst (Nike).

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

You booked an international flight, applied for (or renewed) your passport and have patiently waited for the blue book’s arrival. Weeks have gone by, and there’s still no sign of your passport in the mail.

With an upcoming travel date approaching faster than Usain Bolt running toward the finish line in the 100-meter dash, you might be stressing about where your passport is and whether you can get a passport quickly should you need to shift gears.

If you’re wondering “Can I get a passport in one day?” The answer could depend on where you live. So if your passport hasn’t arrived or you forgot to send it in for a renewal, here’s what you need to know about passport processing times and 24-hour passports.

What types of passport services are available?

The U.S. Department of State offers four types of passport services: routine, expedited, urgent travel and emergency. The type of service depends on whether you have proof of confirmed travel dates and when you’re traveling.

Routine and expedited processing timelines are prone to change, while urgent and emergency processing remain set. Current posted processing timelines for routine and expedited service are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

Routine passport service is the slowest service available. This option is best for travelers who don’t have any international trips coming up within that time frame. To apply for a new passport or renew an existing one, you’ll need to submit your documents by mail or at an acceptance center , such as a library or post office.

Expedited passport processing still takes several weeks, according to the State Department. You’ll submit your application the same way you would for routine processing. Expect to pay a $60 fee on top of the routine passport fee for expedited service.

Urgent travel

If you’re traveling internationally sooner than expedited processing will allow, you’ll want to select nonemergency urgent service to receive a passport in time for your trip.

If you’ve already applied for a passport and are within 14 calendar days of travel, you should call the National Passport Information Center to notify the processing agency of your upcoming travel. If you haven’t applied yet and are traveling within 14 days, you need to make an appointment to visit a passport agency in person.

If your international trip starts within five calendar days, you must schedule an appointment at a passport agency. You’ll also need to provide proof of travel. Keep in mind it can be tricky to get an appointment since time slots fill up quickly.

An emergency passport can be processed within 72 hours only if you have a qualifying life-or-death emergency. You must call a passport agency for one of these appointments and provide proof of international travel.

Qualifying life-or-death emergencies include:

An immediate family member has died.

An immediate family member is dying or in hospice care.

An immediate family member has a life-threatening injury or illness.

Immediate family members include parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings or grandparents.

You must get documentation of the emergency, such as a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary or a letter from the hospital. If the documents aren’t in English, you must have them translated by a professional translator. However, they don’t need to be notarized.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport to book an international flight?

How to make an appointment at a passport agency

There are a limited number of appointments available for applicants traveling internationally within 14 days or who need to apply for a visa within 28 days.

To make an appointment at a passport center for urgent travel, you must call 1-877-487-2778 (closed on federal holidays). For life-or-death emergency travel, call 1-877-487-2778 during the week or 1-202-647-4000 outside of business hours. You’ll receive unique confirmation information that only you can use on the day of your appointment.

Note that you can’t transfer your appointment time slot to another person. If you can’t attend, you must cancel by phone or by emailing [email protected] , and your time slot will be assigned to another person.

A passport agency appointment is free of charge. If you’re asked to pay for an appointment, it’s not a legitimate appointment. Walk-ins appointments aren't available.

Bring a completed passport application, a passport photo, a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, and payment for passport processing. Also, don’t forget the documentation required for one-day passport renewal, such as proof of travel and life-and-death emergency documentation.

» Learn more: What’s the passport photo dress code?

U.S. passport agency locations

If you need to rush your passport, you can make an appointment at one of the 26 U.S. passport agencies that are open to the public across the country. If the closest and most convenient location doesn’t have open time slots, check the next closest one to which you can drive.

For example, Los Angeles and San Diego are within driving distance.

The U.S. passport centers are located in the following cities:

Aurora, Colorado.

Buffalo, New York.

El Paso, Texas.

Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Los Angeles.

Minneapolis.

New Orleans.

Philadelphia.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

San Francisco.

San Juan, Puerto Rico.

St. Albans, Vermont.

Stamford, Connecticut.

Tucson, Arizona.

Washington, DC.

For locations and operating hours, go to the passport agencies page on the State Department’s website and scroll down to the frequently asked questions.

Can you get a passport in one day?

If you’re trying to get a passport in 24 hours, know that it might not be easy. It could take longer to process your passport, even if you score one of the limited appointments at a passport agency.

Make sure to bring the exact documents required for a passport and ensure your photo follows the guidelines outlined by the State Department. Your trip is at stake, and you don’t want to mess this up.

» Learn more: Can you wear makeup in a passport photo?

As a last resort, contact your member of Congress

If you can’t get an appointment at a passport agency and all else fails, contact your U.S. representative's office. Believe it or not, they may be able to expedite the processing of your passport. However, you shouldn’t rely on this method — use it as a last resort only.

You still might not get your passport in one day, but it’s worth a try if you only have a week or two left before your trip, especially if you don’t live near a passport agency. Use a Google search to find out who represents your district and how to contact them.

How to get a passport in 24 hours

"Maybe" is the answer to “Can I get my passport in one day?”

The only way to get a same-day passport is by visiting one of the passport agencies — but only if you can get an appointment — and even that can take longer than 24 hours. The available slots are hard to come by, and you might be left behind while your travel companions jet off without you.

If you think you’ll travel in the future, we recommend applying for a passport now. And if you currently hold a passport, check its expiration date and renew well in advance to avoid having to scramble later.

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On a similar note...

How to Get a Same Day or Emergency Passport

Passport panic here’s how to navigate getting a passport in under 24 hours..

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Photo by Levi Ventura/Unsplash

Losing your passport, having it stolen, or realizing it has expired just before a trip can be a stressful experience. The State Department says it takes six to eight weeks for a standard passport application to be fulfilled in normal circumstances. However, due to a pandemic-related backlog , the current wait time for a passport is expected to be between 8 to 11 weeks . Even expedited passports are currently taking five to seven weeks to process.

Fortunately, there are ways to obtain a same-day or emergency passport that can help you get back on track and on your way. It won’t be easy, but it is possible. Provided you meet the criteria.

Here’s what you need to know about getting a passport in under 24 hours.

Can I get a passport in one day?

The short answer is, yes, you can get a passport in one day. But it will take time, patience, and immediate travel plans.

If it’s a life or death situation, apply for an emergency passport

To qualify for an emergency passport, you’ll need a genuinely life-or-death emergency that requires you to travel internationally. Per the Department of State , that includes having an immediate family member (defined as a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent) who has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury. And you’ll need to prove it with a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary, a letter from a hospital, or similar documentation. That document also needs to be in English (or at least it needs to be translated into English).

You’ll then need to go to one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies scattered throughout the country, which may not be convenient for most people. Those passport agencies are all located in major cities, such as Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia. It’s a good idea to call the Department of State helpline (1-877-487-2778) to make sure you qualify before traveling. Sometimes, the agent on the helpline can schedule an appointment for you, though if not, all of the agencies offer walk-in appointments. Keep in mind the number of walk-in appointments is limited and varies by location. If you’re able to get an appointment, you’ll also need to have a completed passport application, proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or a previously issued U.S. passport), a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license), a passport photo , and proof of immediate international travel plans.

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, use Urgent Travel service

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, there’s still a way to get a passport in one day. If you’ve already applied for a passport, but it hasn’t arrived in the mail, and your international travel is scheduled within five calendar days, you can use the Urgent Travel service . While it’s not technically an emergency passport, it is generally processed the same day. For this, you’ll need to make an appointment with a passport agency by calling 1-877-487-2778. This service is also available for those without a passport (and who aren’t currently waiting on an application to be processed) and have international travel planned within 14 days.

Last ditch effort: ask your elected member of congress to help

Another option is getting your elected member of Congress to help—some representatives, like Dianne Feinstein and Mike Crapo , share this shortcut on their websites, though success may vary.

How to speed up a passport application

If you have a few weeks and would prefer to put the task into professional hands, you might also consider using an expedited passport service.

Third-party expediter services, such as ItsEasy Passport & Visa Service or RushMyPassport , can assist with rushing your passport application. In a matter of days, they can submit your paperwork on your behalf, pick up your passport, and get it back to you when it’s ready. They charge an additional fee (on top of the standard passport application fee and expedited passport service fee). Still, they can often help navigate the ins and outs of the expediting process.

The fastest turnaround time RushMyPassport.com offers is one week for $799 or a two-week option for $599. ItsEasy Passport & Visa charges $45 for its four-week passport processing service and $895 for one-day service. “One- to three-day passport service requires urgent travel. Please contact us for details,” the agency advises.

However, keep in mind that these services have limited availability because expeditors also rely on the same small clutch of appointments being available.

Proof of Travel

Passports through the state department are currently taking 7-10 weeks to process, CIBT standard expedite is currently 3-5 weeks or 2-14 days expedite slots. The U.S. Department of State has 26 locations that issue same-day passports. To qualify for an expedited passport, you must travel within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is required) and have enough proof of travel.

The U.S. Department of State can only process a limited number of emergency passports a day. So, therefore, proof of travel is necessary. Many applicants do not feel comfortable booking a flight before they have their passport, but in most cases, it is not an option. Many applicants also cut it too close when applying through routine service and do not receive their passport on time. If there is an issue or delay with processing, you will miss your trip. We can offer expedited or mail in program.

Enough Proof of Travel

Plane ticket:.

A plane ticket must show you are traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary). The plane ticket must be issued by the airline or travel agent and show your name, travel date, and destination.

Hotel Reservation:

Hotel Reservations will suffice for Canada and Mexico only. The hotel reservation must show the name of the hotel, the applicant’s name, and the dates the applicant will be staying. This must also show you will be traveling within 14 days (or 30 days if a visa is necessary).

Business Letter:

A business letter from your employer will generally suffice as proof of travel, but it depends on the agency. If an applicant is going to apply with a business letter, it must show the company’s name, the applicant’s position at the company, the country or countries you are going, and the dates of travel. The manager or a Human Resource specialist must sign the business letter . If an applicant applies using a business letter, it is also suggested the traveler also submit a signed statement explaining the reason for traveling.

It is important to note: provide a print-out of the itinerary for the appointment.  

Get Your Appointment

To apply at a local Passport Agency, you must request an appointment either online or over the phone. On the day of your visit, provide all the documents. Upon approval, you will have your new passport to travel. Contact your local agency by calling (877) 487-2778.

Private Expeditors

Since there are a limited number of Passport Agencies, many applicants cannot be seen in person. But there are third party expeditors, like Americanpassport.com , offering same-day passport service. Expediting services provide many benefits and are registered with the U.S Department of State. Ultimately, they will be submitting your application on your behalf, so there’s no need to be present at the agency yourself. It is important to note, proof of travel is still required when using an expediting service. Be sure you speak with your courier regarding the evidence of travel you will be providing, as different agencies have different requirements.

If you are outside the 14-day window to apply for an emergency passport but don’t think you have enough time to apply the usual way, it is always safer to wait until you can apply as an emergency. You are much more likely to receive your passport if you go to an agency or use an expeditor. However, always account for a delay in processing, so you must give yourself plenty of time when you apply by routine service.

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Apply for a new adult passport

You need a passport to travel to most countries outside the U.S. Learn how to apply for a passport in person, check your application status, and get it changed or corrected.

Eligibility to get a passport

If you are not able to renew your U.S. passport , or if this is your first one, you will need to apply for a new passport. To be eligible, you must be either:

• A U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or
• A qualifying U.S. non-citizen national

You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility for a new passport. It cannot be done online or by mail.

What do you need to get a passport?

The application process for passport books and passport cards is the same. You will choose which type of passport you want when you fill out the application. Learn about the differences between passport books and passport cards.

There are 4 things you will need to apply for and get your U.S. passport.

• You can Fill out Form DS-11 online and print it, or 
• Download Form DS-11 [PDF, 5 pages, 1.9 MB] and fill it out by hand, or
• Find your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency and pick up Form DS-11.
• Do not sign Form DS-11 until you are at your appointment and the passport acceptance official tells you to do so. 
• Original proof of citizenship - Learn about what qualifies as primary citizenship evidence or what secondary evidence may qualify if you do not have primary evidence.
• An acceptable photo ID
• A photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID
• Passport photo
• Passport fee

Apply in person. Find your local passport acceptance facility. This facility could be a library or post office. Some facilities require appointments or have limited hours.

If you need your passport quickly

Learn how and where to get your passport fast for emergency or urgent travel or to get expedited processing. The time it takes for each varies throughout the year, and there may be additional fees. Use the fee calculator or chart.

Check the status of your passport application

Follow the steps from the Department of State to  check the status of your passport application online .

If you need to change your name or correct your new passport

After you receive your passport, if you change your name or find an error, you will need to get an updated passport to reflect the change. The process, cost, and forms you need depend on how long you have had your passport. Follow the steps from the State Department to change your name or correct your passport.

If you are outside the U.S.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate near you to request a passport while outside the U.S.

If you need help with your passport application

If you have questions about your U.S. passport, the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) can help. Get contact information for NPIC , and find out when to contact them based on when you are traveling.

LAST UPDATED: May 14, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

Top 5 Reasons That Work for an Urgent Passport Renewal—And 5 That Don’t

• Sheldon Soper

When it comes to international travel, having a valid passport is as essential as your ticket. Sometimes, the need to renew your passport can arise unexpectedly and urgently.

What Qualifies as Urgent Passport Renewal?

Urgent passport renewal is an official term used by the U.S. Department of State for the process of renewing your passport in a timeframe shorter than the standard processing period. If you truly need a passport in less than 2 weeks , this is your only path.

This service is generally reserved for situations where immediate international travel is necessary, such as life-or-death emergencies , unplanned business travel , or other urgent circumstances. You must be able to provide proof of these urgent travel needs to even be considered for the fastest passport service .

Your Reasons for Urgent Renewal Matter

Understanding what constitutes a valid reason for urgent renewal is crucial. Not all situations are deemed urgent by passport authorities, and knowing the difference can save you time and unnecessary stress.

For example, an impromptu vacation does not usually qualify, whereas imminent travel due to an unforeseen emergency does. It’s important to be aware of these distinctions to streamline your application process and ensure that your urgent travel needs are met.

Top 5 Valid Reasons for Urgent Passport Renewal

• Life-or-Death Emergencies: In situations where you need to travel internationally due to a life-or-death emergency , such as a serious illness, injury, or death in your immediate family, urgent passport renewal is possible. To expedite your application under these circumstances, it’s essential to provide compelling evidence, like a death certificate or a letter from a hospital or medical professional. This proof should clearly state the nature of the emergency and its urgency, ensuring that your request is given the priority it requires. Typically, you can get a passport in 1-3 days in this type of situation.
• Immediate International Travel: If you have plans to travel internationally within the next few weeks and your passport is either expired or close to expiring, you may qualify for an urgent renewal. Typically, this service is available for those traveling within 14 days. It’s important to have proof of your imminent travel, such as airline tickets or a travel itinerary, ready when applying. Being prepared with the correct documentation can significantly speed up the renewal process .
• Urgent Business Travel: Business professionals with unexpected or last-minute international travel can also request an urgent passport renewal. If your job requires you to travel abroad on short notice, ensure you can provide evidence of this necessity, like a letter from your employer or travel orders. This documentation should clearly state the reason for travel and its immediacy, which will be crucial for fast-tracking your renewal process.
• Exchange Students/Workers with Set Departure Dates: Students or workers participating in exchange programs often have fixed dates for starting their courses or assignments abroad. If your passport is not valid for the duration required (usually six months beyond your planned return date), urgent renewal becomes necessary. Provide proof of your program, like acceptance letters or employment contracts, along with your travel dates to ensure a smooth renewal process.
• Errors or Updates in Passport Information: Sometimes, urgent renewal is warranted if there are errors or required updates in your passport, like name changes due to marriage or divorce, or mistakes made by the passport office . In such cases, provide legal documentation supporting the change or correction, such as a marriage certificate or court order. It’s crucial to get these updates made promptly to avoid travel complications.

Remember, while each of these scenarios can qualify you for an urgent passport renewal, it’s important to adhere to the specific documentation and procedural requirements set by the U.S. Department of State to ensure a successful and speedy renewal process.

Top 5 Reasons That Don’t Qualify for Urgent Renewal

In most cases, the reasons listed below will not allow you to qualify for urgent passport renewal service. Since applications are considered on a case-by-case basis, there is always a chance that you are still able to qualify. However, these are not scenarios you want to be in if your international travel plans are hanging in the balance.

• Vacation or Leisure Travel: While your upcoming vacation may be important to you, it’s not typically considered an urgent matter by passport authorities. Urgent renewals prioritize circumstances that are unforeseeable and necessitate immediate international travel, such as emergencies. Vacation plans, being predictable and often planned well in advance, don’t meet the criteria for urgency. It’s always recommended to check your passport’s expiration date and renew it in a timely manner before planning leisure travels.
• Lack of Awareness of Passport Expiration: Not realizing that your passport is near its expiration date is a common oversight, but it’s not a valid reason for urgent renewal. Passport holders are responsible for monitoring their passport’s validity. It’s advisable to check your passport’s expiration date regularly, especially if you have international travel plans, as many countries require passports to be valid for six months beyond your travel dates.
• Minor Errors Not Affecting Travel Eligibility: Corrections of minor errors in a passport, such as typographical errors that don’t significantly affect travel eligibility, are not usually grounds for urgent renewal. Examples include slight misspellings or incorrect birthplace. While these errors should be corrected , they typically don’t prevent you from traveling and thus don’t usually qualify for expedited processing.
• Lost or Stolen Passport Without Immediate Travel Plans: If your passport is lost or stolen , it’s certainly important to replace it. However, if you don’t have immediate travel plans, this situation doesn’t qualify for urgent renewal. In such cases, standard passport replacement procedures apply. Urgent renewal services are reserved for situations where immediate international travel is impacted due to a lost or stolen passport .
• Routine Renewal Delays: Experiencing a delay in standard passport renewal doesn’t automatically qualify you for an urgent renewal. Expedited services are designed for specific, urgent circumstances and not to compensate for routine processing times. It’s important to plan ahead and apply for renewal well before your expected travel dates to avoid the need for urgent services.

Should you find yourself in need of a passport quickly but aren’t sure if your circumstances will qualify you for urgent service, getting help from a reputable passport expediting service is likely your best option. These travel document experts will likely be able to give you the best possible chance to get a passport in less than two weeks.

Getting Help with the Urgent Passport Application Process

In addition to understanding what is and is not a valid reason for urgent renewal, it’s also beneficial to be aware of the role of registered passport expediting services . These travel document experts act as intermediaries between the applicant and the U.S. passport authorities, facilitating faster processing times for those who need their passports renewed quickly.

Expediters are particularly useful in navigating the complexities of the urgent renewal process, ensuring that all the necessary documentation is submitted correctly, and that the application adheres to all required protocols. However, it’s important to choose a reputable and registered expediting service , so you can be confident your urgent passport needs will be handled legitimately and efficiently.

By being informed about the reasons that qualify for urgent renewal and the assistance offered by registered expediting services, you can effectively navigate the process of renewing your passport in a time-sensitive situation. This knowledge is not only practical but essential for anyone who may find themselves needing to travel internationally at short notice.

For more on passport expediters, including how they work, what they can and cannot do, and our top picks, check out our Ultimate Guide to Passport Expediters .

How to Apply for an Urgent Renewal: Step-By-Step Guide

If you qualify for urgent passport renewal service, follow these steps:

• Determine Eligibility: Before beginning the application process, confirm that your situation qualifies for urgent renewal. This includes scenarios like life-or-death emergencies, immediate international travel, or significant errors in passport information.
• Gather Required Documentation: Depending on your reason for urgent renewal, gather the necessary documents. This may include proof of immediate travel, such as airline tickets or a travel itinerary, or a letter from a medical professional or employer in the case of emergencies or business travel.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill out the passport renewal form ( DS-82 ) accurately. Ensure all information is current and correct, including your contact details.
• Visit a Passport Agency or Center: For urgent renewals, you typically need to visit a regional passport agency in person. Some situations may require an appointment, so check the requirements and availability in advance.
• Submit the Application with Fees : Present your completed application, supporting documents, and the necessary fees. Be prepared to pay an additional expedite fee for urgent processing.
• Use a Registered Passport Expediting Service (Optional): If navigating the process seems daunting or if you need additional guidance, consider using a registered passport expediting service . They can use their expertise to help ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly. In most cases, expediters also serve as couriers, delivering your materials to the passport agency and retrieving your new passport on your behalf so you don’t have to. This can save you serious time, stress, and money , especially if you do not live near one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies .
• Track Your Application : Once submitted, keep track of your application’s status. This can be done online through the official passport information portal.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

If you have an urgent need to travel abroad, the last thing you want is passport delays to get in the way. While there are plenty of circumstances you can’t control, there are a number of mistakes that you can make that can create unnecessary delays or denials of your urgent passport request:

• Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: One of the most common errors is submitting an application form with incomplete or incorrect information. Double-check all entries on your form before submission.
• Insufficient Documentation: Another frequent mistake is not providing all the required documentation or providing documents that do not meet the specified criteria. Carefully review the list of required documents for your specific urgent renewal reason.
• Ignoring Appointment Protocols: If an appointment is required at a passport agency or center, ensure you arrive on time and bring all necessary documents . Missing or being late for an appointment can cause significant delays.
• Underestimating Processing Times: Even with urgent renewal, there is a processing time involved. Don’t underestimate this wait time, especially if you have fixed travel plans.

By following these steps and being mindful of common pitfalls, you can successfully navigate the urgent passport renewal process. Accurate documentation and adherence to guidelines are crucial in ensuring a smooth and fast renewal.

Be Sure You and Your Passport are Prepared for International Travel

Understanding the valid reasons for an urgent passport renewal is crucial, not only for ensuring that your application is processed without delay but also for ensuring the system works for those who are in genuine need. Remember, urgent renewals are prioritized for situations like life-or-death emergencies or unexpected immediate travel, and not for situations that arise from a lack of planning or awareness.

It’s always wise to be proactive about your passport’s status. Regularly check its expiration date and be aware of the renewal requirements well in advance of any planned international travel. This foresight can save you from the stress and potential complications of last-minute renewals.

In today’s fast-paced world, where travel plans can change in an instant, having a current and valid passport is more important than ever. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that you’re ready to embark on your international journeys without any unnecessary hurdles. Be sure to subscribe to our blog so you can receive the latest in passport and travel related tips.

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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Finding the Right Proof of Travel to Expedite Your Passport

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

If you make plans to travel outside of the United States on short notice but do not have a passport, you will be required to find a Regional Passport Agency and apply for expedited passport service. These agencies and processing centers only attend to people who have documented plans to travel within fourteen days and do not have a passport (the threshold is extended to four weeks if a visa is required, also).

If you find yourself in a rush to get a passport expedited at one of these passport agencies, there will be certain documents you will need to present at the processing center to prove that your travel plans are legitimate. Without this evidence, you may find that you do not qualify for expedited service.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

There are different types of proof of travel that are accepted for each of the three methods of travel – land, sea, and air. Ensuring you have the correct documentation will increase your odds of getting a passport quickly.

Travel by Air

If you will be traveling by air , there are several different options that are considered acceptable proof of travel:

• Flight itinerary e-mail – This is the most common proof of air travel people use. In most cases, simply printing the flight's confirmation email provides all the essential flight information the passport agency will need to verify your trip.
• Original tickets or boarding passes – Bringing a hard-copy of the tickets for your flight(s) will satisfy the passport agency's proof of travel requirements.
• E-tickets – A photocopy or printout of your electronic ticket is just as acceptable as an airline-issued paper ticket.
• Private air charter - If you are flying by a private plane, you will need to show the private air charter documentation on official letterhead as your proof of travel.

Travel by Land

When traveling by land to Canada , Mexico , or Central America by bus, train, or car, your proof of travel can be one of the following three:

• Hotel reservation confirmation – You can provide a copy of your hotel reservation confirmation that includes where you will be residing in the county you are traveling to as well as the dates of your stay.
• Tickets to an event - Providing tickets to an event during your stay in the country you plan to visit is considered viable proof by the passport agency.
• Official letter - If you are traveling for business or an organization, have them provide you with an official document outlining the key itinerary details of your trip. The letter should be on official letterhead.

Download Example Letters:

Travel by Sea

For those who are traveling by sea there are two ways you can show proof of imminent travel to the passport agency depending on the type of sea travel you have chosen:

• Cruise itinerary e-mail - For those who are taking part in a cruise that docks in foreign countries, you can provide the passport agent a copy of the e-mail that shows your itinerary.
• Private charter plan - If you are traveling on a private boat or yacht, you will need to provide the documents that show the boat charter plan.

Making the Right Choices for Your Passport Application

Whether you are traveling by land, sea, or air, you will need to provide sufficient evidence of your imminent travel plans in order to obtain an expedited passport at a regional agency . If for some reason you do not have these forms of proof, you should contact the nearest regional passport agency and discuss your options before making the trip there.

Note : The above documents are only required for those who need to expedite passports within two weeks or within four weeks if a visa is required regardless of how you plan to travel.

For those who choose to request expedited service by mail or require only standard processing, proof of travel is not required to obtain your passport. That said, expect at least 3 weeks turnaround time for expedited service by mail or 6-8 weeks for a standard, non-expedited application.

Not sure if you have the proper time or documentation for your last-minute trip? Opting to hire a registered passport expediting service can prove especially helpful. These professionals are able to lean on their unique skills and experiences to not only ensure your application paperwork is in order, but also help you get your passport quickly. In many cases, a registered passport courier can help you get a passport in your hands within 24-48 hours!

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

Get the Latest Updates

Need a passport in a hurry? It’ll soon be easier if you live in one of these US cities.

• The State Department will open six new passport agencies to assist those with “urgent travel needs.”
• The new agencies will bring the total number to 35.
• The State Department did not share addresses or opening dates for the new facilities.

Travelers in a rush to get a passport will soon have more options.

The State Department will open six new passport agencies to assist those with “urgent travel needs,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Tuesday. The new facilities will be in these cities:

• Salt Lake City
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Orlando, Florida
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• San Antonio, Texas

Passport agencies and centers serve “customers by appointment only who have urgent travel to a foreign country in the next 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days,” according to the State Department’s website . The new agencies will bring the total number to 35.

“While we undertake steps to establish these new agencies, we are issuing more passports than ever before while maintaining our passport processing times at our pre-pandemic levels,” Blinken said in a news release . “We thank Congress for its partnership and support, and we look forward to working with our congressional partners and other stakeholders to open these new facilities.”

Learn more: Best travel insurance

The State Department did not share addresses or opening dates for the new facilities. “We are in the initial stages of planning for these additional facilities and will provide updates in the future about specific locations and timelines for these new agencies,” a spokesperson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement.

The world's most powerful passports: See where the US ranks

Travelers can find a map of passport agencies and centers online. There are also more than 7,000 acceptance facilities – such as post offices – where those who don’t need urgent service can apply.

The news comes after the State Department opened a trial for online passport renewal earlier this month.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Getting A Passport In A Hurry Is About To Become Easier

The State Department just announced six new passport agencies, bringing the total number to 35 nationwide. That’s not counting 7,400 post offices and libraries that accept passport applications.

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Need a passport in a jiffy? It's about to get easier.

W ith the summer travel season heating up, the U.S. State Department is making it easier to get a passport in a hurry.

This month, the State Department quietly opened a trial for online passport renewal and announced it will open six new passport agencies, bringing the total number of passport agencies and centers to 35 nationwide, not counting the over 7,400 public institutions like post offices and libraries that double as passport acceptance facilities throughout the United States. More than 99% of Americans already live within 25 miles of an acceptance facility.

The new agencies will open in Charlotte, Cincinnati, Kansas City, Orlando, Salt Lake City and San Antonio. No timeline has been provided regarding the opening of the new facilities. A State Department spokesperson told Forbes in an emailed statement that the agency was “in the initial stages of planning for these additional facilities.”

“Utah is experiencing rapid population growth as it becomes a center for global commerce and tourism—as well as home base to thousands of Latter-day Saints who embark on worldwide religious missions each year,” said Utah Senator Mitt Romney in a statement, noting that he’s been pushing for a passport agency in Utah for three years. “I could not be more thrilled.”

These new passport agencies will be different from ordinary acceptance facilities in several ways. Think of them as the emergency fast track, providing same-day services to those with “urgent travel to a foreign country in the next 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days,” per the State Department’s website .

Unlike acceptance facilities, which take walk-ins, you need an appointment to enter a passport agency building. You must show printed proof—flight, cruise or hotel reservation, for example—that you have an international trip planned within two weeks. In addition, you’ll pay the $60 expedite fee on top of the normal application fees.

News of the new passport agencies comes as demand for international travel is at an all-time high. Today 48% of Americans hold passports, compared to just 5% in 1990, according to the State Department. Last year, the U.S. issued a record-breaking 24 million passport books and cards—a 78% jump from just a decade earlier.

In the first five months of 2024, Americans made 28.2 million international trips, according to data from the National Travel & Tourism Office (NTTO), the agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that tracks tourism statistics. That’s an 11% jump from the 25.4 million trips taken to foreign countries last year during the same period.

During the height of the Covid pandemic, the wait time for a new passport grew as long as 18 weeks. Even last year, the turnaround time was eight to 11 weeks for a standard passport renewal. Today the backlog is gone, with current wait times back to pre-pandemic norms: six to eight weeks for standard service and expedited service of the little blue book in as little as two weeks.

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Respond to a Letter or Email

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply with their child, you will need to show us more documents.
• You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
• Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11 and print it.

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form on a desktop or laptop computer and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF . 

Tips to complete your child's form :

• Do not sign your child's form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 
• You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents.
• You may ask for a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (and a photocopy)

Your evidence must be an original or replacement copy. The document must have the official seal or stamp of the office which issued it. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists the parent(s)' full names
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the registrar's signature
• Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our  Citizenship Evidence page  for more information.

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Tips for making a photocopy :

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must submit a document that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Examples include:

• U.S. birth certificate (also evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• Foreign birth certificate
• Adoption decree
• Divorce or custody decree
• A court order

Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name is different than the one on the document showing your relationship to your child, submit proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID (and a photocopy)

Both parents or guardians must bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID. 

You must show at least  one  of these photo IDs:

• Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
• In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship 
• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
• U.S. military or military dependent ID
• Current (valid) foreign passport
• Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
• In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
• Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our  Identification page  for more information.

5. Show More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

6. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo with your child's application. Go to our  Passport Photo page  for photo requirements and to see examples of photos. 

• Do not attach or staple your child's photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
• Some  passport acceptance facilities
• A company which offers photo services
• Home. Ask your friend or family member to take your child's photo. Print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper. 

7. Calculate Fees

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want  expedited service .
• Add $21.36 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  

Child Applicants :

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our  Passport Fees  page.

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

8. Find Location to Apply

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks?  Go to a  passport acceptance facility  such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks?   Make an appointment  to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

9. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my child's passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $21.36 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

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