How to renew your passport quickly for urgent travel

Get expedited passport renewal by applying in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility with Form DS-82, paying the $130 renewal fee plus $60 expedite fee, and providing proof of urgent travel. Standard expedited service takes 2-3 weeks, but same-day service is available at passport agencies for travel within 14 days.

  1. Check if you qualify for renewal. You can renew if your passport was issued when you were 16 or older, within the last 15 years, is undamaged, and you still have the same name (or can document the change). If not, you need a new passport application, not renewal.
  2. Gather required documents. Complete Form DS-82, bring your current passport, one passport photo (2x2 inches), and proof of urgent travel (airline tickets, hotel reservations, or travel itinerary showing departure within 14 days).
  3. Choose your speed option. Routine by mail takes 6-8 weeks. Expedited by mail costs $60 extra and takes 2-3 weeks. For travel within 14 days, book an appointment at a passport agency for same-day or next-day service.
  4. Apply in person for fastest service. Make an appointment at a passport agency through travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778. Bring all documents, pay $190 total ($130 renewal + $60 expedite), and you can get your passport the same day or next business day.
  5. Track your application. Use the tracking system at travel.state.gov with your last name and either date of birth or the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll get email updates when your application status changes.
Can I renew an expired passport quickly?
Yes, if it expired within 5 years and you were over 16 when it was issued. Use the same expedited renewal process. If it expired more than 5 years ago, you need a new passport application, which takes longer.
What counts as urgent travel for same-day service?
Travel within 14 days, or within 30 days if you need a visa. You must show proof like airline tickets or a travel itinerary. Family emergencies abroad also qualify with proper documentation.
Can I walk into a passport agency without an appointment?
No. Passport agencies require appointments, which you can book online or by phone. Some acceptance facilities take walk-ins but only offer routine or expedited mail service, not same-day processing.
Will expedited mail service work for travel in 2 weeks?
It's risky. Expedited mail takes 2-3 weeks and can be delayed. For travel within 14 days, go to a passport agency in person for guaranteed same-day or next-day service.
What if my name changed since my last passport?
You can still renew if you have legal documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Include the documents with your renewal application and pay the standard fees.