Can I get a same-day passport?

Only in life-or-death emergencies. Standard urgent appointments take 2-3 business days. Same-day service requires documentation of a qualifying emergency and is extremely limited.

What counts as proof of urgent travel?

Airline tickets, hotel reservations, travel itineraries, or documentation of a family emergency abroad. The travel must be within 14 days for agency appointments.

Can I expedite a first-time passport application?

Yes, but you cannot use Form DS-82. You'll need Form DS-11 and must apply in person at an acceptance facility or passport agency, following different procedures than renewal.

What if my passport is damaged or I changed my name?

You cannot use the renewal process. You'll need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, which takes longer and requires in-person application even with expediting.

How to expedite US passport renewal for urgent travel

You can expedite US passport renewal by paying an additional $60 fee and either visiting a passport agency in person (for travel within 14 days) or using expedited mail service (for travel within 4-6 weeks). Proof of urgent travel is required for in-person appointments.

Determine your timeline and options. If you travel within 14 days (or 28 days needing a visa), book an appointment at a passport agency. For travel in 4-6 weeks, use expedited mail service. Check if your passport is eligible for renewal: issued when you were 16+, issued within last 15 years, undamaged, and in your current name.
Gather required documents. Complete Form DS-82, provide your current passport, one passport photo (2x2 inches), and proof of urgent travel (airline tickets, hotel confirmations, or travel itinerary). Include payment: $130 renewal fee plus $60 expedite fee.
For urgent travel (within 14 days): Schedule agency appointment. Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or schedule online at travel.state.gov. Appointments fill quickly, so call at 8 AM ET when they open. You'll need proof of travel within 14 days.
For less urgent travel: Submit by expedited mail. Mail your complete application to the address on Form DS-82 with expedited shipping both ways. Use overnight delivery and include a prepaid overnight return envelope. Processing takes 4-6 weeks from receipt.
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Expedited passports are typically ready 2-3 business days after your appointment or 4-6 weeks for mail applications.

Can I get a same-day passport?: Only in life-or-death emergencies. Standard urgent appointments take 2-3 business days. Same-day service requires documentation of a qualifying emergency and is extremely limited.
What counts as proof of urgent travel?: Airline tickets, hotel reservations, travel itineraries, or documentation of a family emergency abroad. The travel must be within 14 days for agency appointments.
Can I expedite a first-time passport application?: Yes, but you cannot use Form DS-82. You'll need Form DS-11 and must apply in person at an acceptance facility or passport agency, following different procedures than renewal.
What if my passport is damaged or I changed my name?: You cannot use the renewal process. You'll need to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, which takes longer and requires in-person application even with expediting.