How to Get an Expedited Passport
There are times when you might need to obtain a passport in a hurry, and you may be wondering how to go about getting an expedited passport. An expedited passport generally takes about two to three weeks to process, as opposed to the normal processing time of four to six weeks. In some cases, it’s possible to get an expedited passport in as little as 24 hours. Read on to find out how to obtain an expedited passport and the process behind it.
Why Might You Need to Get an Expedited Passport?
There are various reasons why you might need to get an expedited passport. Here are some of the most common circumstances:
– You’ve left it too late: If you’ve forgotten to apply for your passport in time for your trip, or you’ve lost your passport and need to apply for a new one urgently, you’ll need to get an expedited passport.
– You have an unexpected trip: If you need to travel due to an emergency or a last-minute opportunity, you may need to get an expedited passport.
– You need to renew your passport urgently: If you need to renew your passport and you’re planning to travel soon, you may need to get an expedited passport.
– Your visa application requires it: Some countries require travelers to have a passport that’s been issued within a certain time frame. In this case, you may need to get an expedited passport to make sure you have a valid passport.
How to Get an Expedited Passport
Here are the steps to getting an expedited passport:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before you apply for an expedited passport, make sure you gather all the required documents. You’ll need to have:
– Form DS-11: This is the application form for a new passport. You can fill it out online, or you can print it out and fill it in by hand.
– Proof of citizenship: This can be a birth certificate, a previously issued passport, or a certificate of naturalization.
– Proof of identity: This can be a driver’s license, a state ID card, or a military ID. If you don’t have any of these, you can use two other forms of identification, such as a work badge, a school ID, or a social security card.
– Passport photo: You’ll need to have a passport photo taken within the past six months. You can get it taken at many pharmacies, post offices, or photo studios.
– Payment: You’ll need to pay the required fees for your passport. The cost of an expedited passport is higher than a regular passport. Check the State Department’s website for the current fees.
Step 2: Choose Your Processing Method
There are three ways to get an expedited passport:
– Regional passport agency: If you have to get your expedited passport within two weeks, you’ll need to go to a regional passport agency. There are 26 passport agencies around the US. You’ll need to make an appointment and bring all your required documents with you.
– Acceptance facility: If you have between two and three weeks before your trip, you can go to an acceptance facility. This could be a post office, a county clerk’s office, or a public library. They’ll be able to take your application and send it to the processing center for expedited processing.
– Private expediting company: If you need your passport in a hurry, you can use a private expediting company. These companies offer a range of turnaround times, from next-day service to two-week service. They’ll handle the paperwork on your behalf and ensure that your application is processed as quickly as possible. Be aware that these companies charge a fee on top of the normal passport fee.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
The final step is to submit your application. Here’s what you need to do:
– Fill out the application form: Make sure you complete the form accurately and legibly.
– Submit your documents: Make sure you have all the required documents, including your proof of citizenship, proof of identity, passport photo, and payment.
– Choose your processing method: Decide whether you’ll go to a passport agency, an acceptance facility, or use a private expediting company.
– Submit your application: Hand in your application to the appropriate location, either in person or by mail.
Step 4: Track Your Application
Once you’ve submitted your application, you can track its progress. Check the State Department’s website to see the current processing times. If you’re using a private expediting company, they’ll keep you updated on the status of your application.
Tips for Getting an Expedited Passport
Here are some tips to ensure your expedited passport application goes smoothly:
– Plan ahead: Try to avoid leaving your passport application to the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to gather your documents and choose your processing method.
– Use a private expediting company as a last resort: Private expediting companies can be expensive, so try to use them as a last resort. If you have more time, consider using an acceptance facility or going to a passport agency.
– Be prepared for additional fees: Expedited passports cost more than regular passports. If you’re using a private expediting company, you’ll also need to pay their fees.
– Ensure your documents are in order: Make sure you have all the required documents, and make sure they’re in good condition. If your birth certificate or previous passport is damaged, you may need to get a new one.
– Follow up on your application: Keep an eye on the status of your application and follow up if you haven’t heard anything after a few days. If there’s a problem with your application, you’ll want to know about it as soon as possible.
Conclusion
If you need to get an expedited passport, there are a few steps you need to follow. The most important thing is to make sure you have all the required documents and choose the right processing method. If you plan ahead and follow the tips in this article, you should be able to get your expedited passport in time for your trip. Remember that an expedited passport costs more than a regular passport, so be prepared for additional fees.
How to Get an Expedited Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide
Have travel plans coming up soon but don’t have a passport yet? Don’t panic. If you need a passport in a hurry, you can expedite the process and have your passport in hand in as little as 24 hours. Here’s everything you need to know to get an expedited passport.
Step 1: Determine if you are Eligible for Expedited Service
Expedited service is available both for first-time passport applications and passport renewals. However, it is not available for passport name changes or corrections. The standard processing time for a passport application is 4-6 weeks, while expedited service typically takes 2-3 weeks. If you need your passport sooner than that, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency, which offers expedited service for travelers who are departing within 72 hours, or within two weeks if submitting a visa application.
Step 2: Fill out the Application Form
The process for getting an expedited passport is the same as for a regular passport, with one key difference: you will need to indicate on the application form that you are requesting expedited service. You can fill out the application online or in-person at a passport acceptance facility. You should also make sure to submit all of the required documents, including proof of citizenship, identification, and two passport photos.
Step 3: Make an Appointment at a Regional Passport Agency
To get an expedited passport, you will need to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. There are 26 Regional Passport Agencies located throughout the United States, and you can find the one closest to you here. To make an appointment, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Step 4: Gather Your Documents
To get an expedited passport at a Regional Passport Agency, you will need to bring all of the required documents. This includes your completed application form, proof of citizenship, identification, two passport photos, and a travel itinerary that shows proof of your upcoming travel plans.
Step 5: Arrive Early to your Appointment
When you arrive at the Regional Passport Agency, make sure to arrive early and bring all of the required documents. You will need to pass through security, and you may need to wait in line before being seen by an agent. Once you are called up, the agent will review your documents and process your passport application on the spot.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
The fees for an expedited passport are higher than those for a regular passport. You will need to pay the standard passport fee, which varies depending on the type of passport you need, as well as the expedited service fee, which is an additional $60. If you need your passport mailed back to you, you will need to pay an additional $17.56 for overnight delivery.
In conclusion, getting an expedited passport is entirely possible with some extra effort and additional fees. By following the above steps, you can get your passport quickly and be on your way to your travel destination without interruption.
In order to expedite a passport, citizens must do one of two things. First, citizens can pay an added fee to get an expedited passport. The fee required for a quick passport is sixty dollars. Requests for quick passports are usually accommodated, but passports do not always arrive as fast as citizens would like.
During family emergencies, or in case of emergency travel for work related issues, citizens can generally proceed directly to the passport office. In emergencies, quick passports can generally be obtained in time for the necessary travel. If this is a citizens first passport, they must apply in person. Those that have a passport and simply need to rush the renewal, can do so through the mail.
The additional fee for an expedited passport is currently set at sixty dollars. However, there are additional fees which include overnight mail and a background search if citizens that do not have the required proof of identity. Citizens should be sure that they mark “expedited passport” on all forms and documentation.
Quick passport requests should be sent securely, so that citizens can protect all documentation. Secure mailing includes specialized envelopes that protect the documents from the elements during transport. There are envelopes that are padded and weather protected, which aids citizens in being sure that the documentation reaches the passport office in one piece.
In addition, passport applications should be sent using a form of mail service which allows the applicant to track all paperwork. There are several options for tracking mail. Return receipt is generally effective and also allows citizens to be aware of when their documents reach the passport office. The office will do everything possible to honor requests for quick passports. However, citizens must be sure that they send all of the proper documentation and forms. Those that must apply for their first passport
In emergencies, citizens can go directly to the passport office and request an expedited passport. Family or medical emergencies often constitute a rush in service for quick passports. While the office may request proof of such an emergency, they will generally be very accommodating. Quick passport requests are often granted when citizens fill out the necessary paperwork, have the required proof of identity and citizenship, and pay the proper fees. In addition to the correct forms being filled out completely, citizens should be clear when they will need to have their passport so that they can plan accordingly if they cannot be accommodated.
