Passport Acceptance Agent

 

Passport Acceptance Agents are government workers who review passport materials and applications before acceptance. Passport Acceptance Agents are integral in assisting citizens in receiving their passports. There are literally thousands of agents across the U.S. in facilities such as the clerk of the court offices, larger post offices, and even select public libraries. Many require an appointment; a comprehensive list of Passport Acceptance locations can be accessed.

What is A Passport Acceptance Agent?

Passport Acceptance Agents can assist with just about every phase of passport application in a range of scenarios. Whether you need a brand new passport, a renewal, a replacement, or a passport for a child, a Passport Acceptance Agent can help. They’ll check the application packet as well as the applicant’s identity to ensure a successful experience.

A Passport Acceptance Agent meeting is required in the following cases:

  • Brand new passport applicant for the first time and the applicant is over the age of 16
  • A replacement passport is needed for one that has been lost, stolen or damaged
  • The applicant is age 15 or younger

Applicants fitting these criteria must appear at the office in person. If under age 16, both parents must accompany the minor applicant.

What to Bring When Seeing a Passport Acceptance Agent

The following items should be brought along to your meeting with the Passport Acceptance Agent:

  • Completed passport application – but do not sign it yet.
  • I.D. in the form of driver’s license or military ID.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate).
  • Passport photo.
  • Any other required document(s) for your case.
  • Checkbook. There will be one fee for the US Department of State and one for the Acceptance Agent’s services.

If you choose to have your application processed via mail, the agent will take care of this. You will receive your passport in 6 to 8 weeks with standard mail, or 2 to 3 weeks if you select the expedited passport mail service option.

You may also use a passport expediting company. If you go this route, inform the Passport Agent and they will give you the sealed envelope. It is then up to you to hand it over to a passport expediting company of your choice. Do not open the envelope once it is given to you; if you open it for any reason, it will no longer be valid and you’ll have to start from square one.

There will also be a date stamp on the sealed envelope. You should be aware that the packet must be submitted to the U.S. State Department no more than five business days from when it was sealed. Be sure to turn it over to your passport expediting company as soon as possible to ensure your application will remain valid.