Why You Might Need an Expedited Passport
1. Understand Your Expedited Passport Options
a) Passport Expediting Services
b) U.S. Passport Agencies
c) Expedited Passport by Mail
2. Preparing Your Expedited Passport Application
a) Gather All Necessary Documents
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Certified birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or an old passport.
- Valid ID: Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, government-issued photo ID, or previous passport.
- Passport Photos: Photos must meet the specific size and background requirements (2×2 inches, white background).
- Application Form: If you are renewing by mail, use the DS-82 form or the DS-11 if you are applying for a new passport or replacing a lost or damaged one.
b) Double-Check Your Information
c) Prepare for Extra Costs
3. Tips for a Faster Expedited Passport Process
a) Schedule Appointments Early
If you are going to a passport agency, schedule your appointment as soon as you realize that you require expedited service. When peak travel seasons set in, agencies can get busy, and scheduling assistance well in advance ensures the help you need will be available.
b) Use Overnight Delivery Services
Ship your documents and passport with overnight shipping, and it will save you days. Most opt for expedited both ways, which makes everything go quicker and more reliably.
c) Monitor Processing Times
Processing times vary, but you should monitor them as they can fluctuate depending on demand. You can check the current wait times by visiting the State Department website. Expediting services such as Rush In Documentation Center provide application status updates, providing you with peace of mind and letting you know where exactly you stand with your application.
4. Applying for Expedited Passport Renewal
a) Eligibility for Expedited Passport Renewal
- The passport must be undamaged and in your possession.
- It must have been issued within the last 15 years.
- It must have been issued when you were 16 or older.
- Your name must be the same, or you must provide documentation of a name change.


