The question of how fast you can get a passport has more than one answer. This is because the time it takes for your passport application to be processed depends on where you apply and the type of service you need.
The Slowest Way to Get Passports
Regular processing of passport applications presently takes 4-6 weeks. This applies to all services: new passports, renewals, name changes, added visa pages and lost passport replacements. Complete the correct application and mail it in with the required supporting documentation and the appropriate payment. New passports and applications for minors must be submitted to an agent at an acceptance facility. 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 four to six weeks is too long for you to wait for your travel document, then you can request expedited services when you submit your application. Expedited services reduces the time it takes to get a passport down to two to three weeks. All that is required to receive expedited services is to pay an additional $60 fee and write the word “Expedited” on the outside of the envelope so agents can rapidly recognize your request. It is recommended that you use a two-way overnight delivery method to speed the process.
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 required to get the job done.
One way to get passports really fast is to apply at the nearest regional agency. At the present time, there are eighteen regional agencies that attend U.S. citizens in emergency situations. The agencies can be found in major cities throughout the United States including New York, Miami, Houston, Los Angeles and Seattle. The two newest agencies are located in Minneapolis and Tucson. Applicants are required to make an appointment.
A second method for getting your passport quickly is to apply through a professional passport expediting service. Applying through an expediter essentially grants them permission to submit your application at a regional agency on your behalf. 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 a day or two for an important trip but you live quite distant from the regional agency or are unable to get away from your job place in order to deliver your application to the agency.
Here are your choices. Not in any hurry? Apply for regular processing. Need your travel document within 2-3 weeks? 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 expediter to get the passport for you.