How to Get a Expedited Passport

 

Looking to get a expedited passport? U.S. passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issuance for adults, 5 years for those under age 16. If yours has expired, is set to expire or you’ve never had a U.S. passport before and wish to travel internationally, it’s time to either renew or apply for a brand new passport.

Once a passport expires, you have five years from its date of expiration to renew it. After this five year period, the steps for receiving a new passport must be taken.

Applying for or renewing a passport is not hard to do; however, with standard service, it does take some time. Receiving your new passport can take 6 to 8 weeks to receive through the standard mail channels.

However, if travel plans are sooner than this time frame, an expedited passport may be required. Fortunately, there are ways to receive your passport much sooner than 8 weeks, and in some cases as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Using a Passport Acceptance Agent

Passport Acceptance Agents are government workers who assist citizens in receiving their passports. They review applications and materials before accepting them to help ensure success in issuance. There are thousands of agents across the U.S.; a full list can be accessed by clicking here.

Seeing a Passport Acceptance Agent in person is required when:

  • The applicant is under age 16.
  • A new passport is required for someone over 16 years of age.
  • A replacement passport for one that has been stolen, lost or damaged is needed.

If the passport application will be processed via standard mail, you will receive your passport in 6 to 8 weeks. Expedited passport mail service is available for a fee, and you’ll receive your passport in 2 to 3 weeks.

The following items are required for application:

  • Completed, unsigned application
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
  • Official U.S. ID. Driver license or military identification.
  • Any other required document(s) for your case.
  • Passport photo.
  • Checkbook to pay the fees for the Acceptance Agent service and U.S. Dept. of State.

The Fastest Passport Service

If 2 to 3 weeks is still not fast enough, you can enlist the services of a passport expediting business. Contact them directly for details. Inform your Passport Acceptance Agent you will be using this service, and they will hand you your completed application packet in a sealed envelope.

Be sure to turn this envelope over to your passport expediting company as soon as possible, as you will have only five business days once it is sealed. Also, do not open the envelope for any reason, as doing so will invalidate its contents and you’ll have to start the process all over again. Note: Some passport expediting services may be able to save you the step of going to an acceptance office in person; ask the company for details.