The HowTo NetworkTravel

How to Get a Passport Expedited

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

To get a passport quickly, you must book an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency within 14 days of international travel. You will need to provide proof of international travel and pay an additional $60 expedite fee on top of standard application costs.

Budget
$190 total
Duration
1 to 8 business days
Best Time
Year-round
Visa Required
Depends - this process is for obtaining the passport itself, which is required for visa applications.

Step by step

  1. Verify your travel window

    You can only request an 'urgent travel' appointment if you have international travel scheduled within 14 calendar days. If your travel is further out, you must use the standard mail-in expedite process.

  2. Gather your documentation

    Bring a completed (but unsigned) DS-11 form, a color passport photo taken within the last 6 months, proof of citizenship (original birth certificate or naturalization certificate), a photocopy of that proof, and a valid photo ID plus a photocopy of the front and back.

  3. Secure an appointment

    Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Appointments at regional agencies are limited and fill up fast. Do not walk into an agency without a confirmed appointment.

  4. Bring proof of travel

    You must present a printed flight itinerary, hotel reservation, or a letter from an employer confirming international travel at the appointment check-in.

  5. Pay the fees

    Be prepared to pay by check, money order, or credit card. In addition to the standard book fee ($130), you must pay the $60 expedite fee at the time of the appointment.

Questions people ask

Can I get my passport the same day?

Yes, if you have an urgent travel appointment at a regional agency, you can often pick up your passport on the same day or the following business day.

What if there are no appointments available?

Check the website early in the morning (usually 5:00 AM EST) as cancelled appointments are released into the system daily.

Packing

  • Original birth certificate (not a photocopy)
  • Printed proof of international flight or trip
  • Two passport photos meeting State Department requirements
  • Form DS-11 filled out in black ink

See also