Need for Speed? How to Get Your Passport Faster
The process of getting or renewing your passport can seem daunting for many.
“Is it worth getting a passport?”, “I’ve heard it’s hard”, “Will it take long?” – These are all questions we ask ourselves when it comes time to consider getting a passport. If you are someone who never got around to requesting your passport, or have suddenly found yourself with an urgent need to travel internationally and don’t have a passport, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll break down all you need to know about requesting your passport, renewing an expired one, and how to get the whole process expedited and avoid the headache.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Passport?
According to the U.S. Department of State, applying for and receiving your passport usually takes 4-6 weeks. In some cases, this wait can be as long as 6-8 weeks. Processing times depend on where you are located, as well as how backed up the office is when you make your request. It’s important to note that these numbers don’t include mailing times. The website notes that it can take around two weeks for them to receive your application, and two weeks to return your new passport.
Factors that Can Influence the Time It Takes to Get a Passport.
Passport processing times vary based on whether you are renewing or applying for the first time, have an in-person or mail-in application, and other situational factors. Here is a closer look at each of these.
First-time Passport Vs. Renewal
First-time passport applications take longer than renewals as there is more information to verify, including your citizenship status, identity, whether you have serious tax debt that could prevent you from receiving your passport, and more. First-time applicants are also required to apply in person for their passport at a designated post office, courthouse, or passport agency. All of these operate by appointment only, and availability at your nearest acceptance facility may be limited in high-demand areas.
On the other hand, you can renew your passport by mail, which may help speed up the process as you won’t depend on the availability of an appointment in your area, and your identity has already been verified.
In-person Vs. Mail-in Renewal
Some passport renewals cannot be processed by mail and will require in-person applications, which can slow down the renewal process. If your passport has been expired for more than 15 years, you have changed your name, or your passport is severely damaged, you may need to apply in person for your renewal.
Other Factors in Passport Processing Times
There are also situational factors that can affect how long it takes to process your passport, including:
- Application volume: During the Summer and Holiday seasons, more people request passports, which can influence how long it takes to get your passport renewed.
- Government backlogs: Surges in new applications or staffing shortages at the government offices have been known to affect processing times.
- Mailing times: The State Department notes that sending and receiving passport documents can add up to 4 weeks to the total processing time.
- Application errors: Incomplete forms, missing documents, or incorrect information can also cause delays when processing your application.
Needless to say, for some scenarios, waiting weeks or months for a passport isn’t an option. Therefore, you may want to consider expediting your passport application.
Why Get an Expedited Passport?
Expediting your passport is a great way to speed up the application process and get your new passport in hand in time to travel. You may be able to expedite your passport application and reduce the time it takes from several weeks to just a few days if you have an unexpected trip, last-minute business travel, or an urgent family matter that requires you to go abroad on short notice. Expediting your passport usually costs more than a normal application, but in a pinch, the cost can be well worth it.
How to Speed up Passport Processing
The U.S. Department of State offers expedited passport services for emergencies, but if you don’t meet its requirements, you can also use a third-party service, pay an extra fee for faster processing, or get assistance from an elected official in some cases.
Urgent Appointments for Life or Death Emergencies
In certain life-or-death emergencies, the State Department offers expedited services. This includes if you have an immediate family member who has died, is dying or is in hospice care, or has a life-threatening illness or injury. In these cases, you will be required to present proof of the emergency as outlined on the State Department’s website, make an urgent appointment, and show proof of travel within the next two weeks.
Urgent Appointments for Travel Within the Next 14 -28 Days
The U.S. State Department offers expedited assistance if you have an urgent issue that requires you to travel internationally within the next 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days. You must schedule an in-person appointment at a passport office, provide proof of international travel at the appointment, and pay a $60 expedited processing fee.
Note that passport agencies have limited appointments available, so secure one as early as possible.
Non-Urgent Expedited Service from the State Department
For non-emergency travel within the next 6 weeks, you can pay for an expedited service from the State Department. On your application, simply select the expedited service option and pay the additional fee of $60. This can reduce your wait time from 6-8 weeks to around 2-3 weeks. You can also opt for overnight shipping if you are mailing in your application to ensure you receive it as soon as possible.
Use a Third-party Expediting Service
If you don’t qualify for urgent processing or can’t get an appointment at your closest office, you can consider using a passport expeditor or courier service. These are private companies that can submit applications and pick up passports on your behalf. Often, these companies can get your passport within 24-72 hours. The State Department provides information on registered expediters and couriers who can assist you with getting your passport quickly. It’s important to note that these companies are pricey and can cost anywhere from $100 to over $500, depending on your needs.
Research well when choosing an expeditor, and ensure the company is registered with the U.S. State Department and has positive customer reviews. Note that although these companies can help you submit your passport faster, applications still go through official government processing, which can still take some time.
Get Help from an Elected Official
If your passport application is delayed and urgent travel is approaching, your local congressperson or senator may be able to assist you. Many elected officials expedite their constituents’ passport applications in special cases. Visit their official website to find their contact information and submit a passport assistance request, along with details about your travel plans, application status, and any delays you’re experiencing.
Track your Passport Status Regularly
After submitting your application, a passport status check can alert you to any issues, such as missing documents, that are slowing down processing. Use the U.S. State Department’s online tracking tool for the most accurate data. If you have a delayed passport application, call the National Passport Information Center to inquire about the reason for the delay and additional steps you need to take.
Written by Casey Clague
Edited by Steven Benna