How to Get a Same-Day Passport in an Emergency
Same-day passports are possible in the US through the Passport Agency's Emergency/Expedited service, but only if you apply in person at a passport acceptance facility or agency and can document a genuine emergency. You'll pay $60–$90 extra and usually get your passport within 24 hours—but this requires planning within the system's constraints and knowing which facilities offer it.
- Budget
- $190–$210 for the passport plus ancillary costs
- Duration
- Same-day pickup or next-business-day pickup
- Best Time
- Plan ahead—don't rely on same-day service. But if you must use it, go first thing on a weekday morning.
- Visa Required
- No—this is for obtaining a US passport itself, not a visa
Step by step
Verify you qualify as an emergency
The US State Department defines emergencies narrowly: imminent international travel within 72 hours, a family death abroad, or a serious illness requiring immediate travel. Wanting to leave next week doesn't count. If your situation doesn't fit these categories, you likely don't qualify. Have your reason clear before you start.
Confirm a passport office near you offers same-day service
Not all passport acceptance facilities do same-day work. Call ahead—this is critical. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and DC have Passport Agencies that handle expedited same-day requests. Smaller towns often can't. Go to travel.state.gov, find the office locator, and call the nearest agency directly to ask: 'Can you do a same-day passport today?' Get the specific window hours for emergency service.
Gather required documents immediately
You need: valid government ID, proof of citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization papers—originals), a completed Form DS-11 (not DS-82), a passport photo (4x6 inches, color, white background—many pharmacies do this in 1 hour for $10–$15), and proof of the emergency (itinerary with flight confirmation, medical letter, death certificate, etc.). Don't skip the photo—they won't accept a blurry one from your phone. Some agencies allow you to get the photo on-site for an extra fee.
Arrive at the passport agency first thing when it opens
Get there 30–45 minutes before opening. Bring all documents in a folder. Check the agency's website for that day's hours—some have extended emergency hours. Walk in, explain your situation to the clerk, and request same-day service. Be specific about your emergency. You'll likely be given a number and asked to wait. Bring your phone charger; waits can be 2–4 hours even with an emergency request.
Pay the emergency/expedited fee
Standard passport book cost is $130 (first-time adult). Same-day emergency service adds $60. Passport card adds $35 (plus $35 expedited). So a same-day adult book is $190 total. Bring a credit card or check—some agencies take both, but call ahead to confirm what they accept. Cash-only is rare but possible at smaller offices. Get a receipt.
Pick up your passport the same day
If approved in the morning, you'll typically collect it the same afternoon or next business morning. The agency will give you a specific pickup time. Return with your receipt and valid ID. If you need your passport shipped instead, same-day service doesn't apply—it becomes expedited and takes 1–2 weeks. For a flight tonight, you must pick it up in person.
Questions people ask
Can I get a same-day passport on a Saturday or Sunday?
Almost never. A handful of major passport agencies (New York, DC) rarely open on Saturday mornings for emergencies, but you must call ahead 24 hours in advance and have extreme documentation. Most agencies are closed weekends. If your flight is Sunday evening, you're likely out of luck unless you apply Friday morning.
What if I don't have my original birth certificate?
Order an official copy from your state's vital records office—usually available 3–7 business days by mail, or sometimes same-day pickup in person. Some states mail certified copies within 24 hours for an extra fee. A photocopy, hospital record, or baptism certificate won't work for passport applications.
Do I need a passport book or card for international travel?
A passport book works everywhere. A passport card works only for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean—not by air to most countries. If you're flying internationally in an emergency, get the book.
Can a family member pick up my passport if I can't get away?
No. You must be present with your valid ID to collect it in person. The only exception is if you submit a notarized power of attorney in advance, which defeats the point of a same-day service. You have to go yourself.
What if the passport agency rejects my emergency claim?
They'll tell you on the spot. If denied, you can apply for standard expedited service (1–2 weeks) or routine service (3–5 weeks) instead. Some people argue their case with the supervisor—occasionally that works—but don't count on it. Have a backup plan (postponing the trip, getting a travel document instead) ready.
Can I get a same-day passport if I'm renewing, not applying for the first time?
No. Renewals don't qualify for same-day service under any circumstances. Only new applications, replacement passports for lost/stolen books, and name changes can use the emergency same-day lane. If you're renewing, your fastest option is expedited (1–2 weeks).
- Passport Photo
- 15
- Adult Passport Book
- 130
- Total Same Day Passport
- 205
- Same Day Emergency Expedited Fee
- 60
Packing
- Original birth certificate or naturalization certificate (not a copy)
- Two forms of valid ID (driver's license plus credit card with photo, or passport card)
- Recent color photo, 4x6 inches, white background (or cash for on-site photo)
- Completed Form DS-11 (print at home or fill at the agency)
- Proof of your emergency: flight itinerary, medical letter, death certificate, or travel confirmation email