How Quickly Can You Get a Passport

The question of how quickly a U.S. citizen can obtain a passport can be answered in more than one way. The reason is because the time required to process the application form depends on where you apply and the type of service you select.

The Slowest Way to Get Passports

It takes four to six weeks to get a passport if you choose regular processing. This is the same for new passports, renewals, name changes, added visa pages and lost passport replacements. You should complete the proper application and mail it in with the required supporting documentation and the proper payment. You must appear in person and an acceptance facility if you are applying for a new passport or one for a minor. Note, the time it takes to process an application can be changed when the State Department deems necessary. In the past, it would take up to 3 months to get a passport.

A Faster Way to Get Passports

If you do not have 4-6 weeks to wait for your passport to arrive, then expedited service may be the best option for you. Expedited services reduces the time it takes to get a passport down to 2-3 weeks. All that is required to receive expedited services is to include payment for the $60 fee and write the word “Expedited” on the outside of the envelope so agents can rapidly recognize your request. Use two-way overnight express mail to accelerate the process even more.

The Fastest Way to Get Passports

Is there anything that can be done if you need your passport in under two weeks? Well, you have two options. Both will allow you to get a emergency passport. The difference between the two is the expense and how much time you will need to commit to the task.

One way to get passports really fast is to submit your application at the nearest regional agency. At the present time, there are eighteen passport agencies that attend U.S. citizens in emergency situations. The agencies are located in major cities throughout the United States including New York, Miami, Houston, Los Angeles and Seattle. The two most recent agencies are located in Minneapolis and Tucson. Applicants need to schedule an appointment before visiting the agency.

A second method for getting your passport quickly is to submit the application through a professional passport expediter. When you apply for this service you authorize the expediter to represent you at the regional agency. While there is an an additional fee for this service, there are situations in which the investment is well worth it. For example, you need your passport in 24-48 hours for an important trip but you live far away from the regional agency or are unable to get away from your job place in order to take your application to the agency.

Here are your choices. Not in any hurry? Apply for regular processing. Only have a few weeks before your trip? Request expedited services? Need your passport in less than two weeks and you live close to a regional agency? Submit the application yourself. Absolutely must have your passport in 14 days or less and cannot get to an agency? Get a passport expediting service to get the passport for you.