Occasionally someone finds they need a quick passport. While
these occurrences are rare, it is possible to get a passport in a few
days instead of weeks. Naturally, the cost of getting a rush passport is
much higher than applying for one and waiting a few weeks. However, if
you are in a hurry, the cost will be worth it.
Rush Service: The
State Department provides the option for faster service when applying
for your passport. Using two way overnight delivery services, with
expedite written on the outside of the envelope is one way to speed up
the arrival of your passport. A fee of $60 will be required above the
standard passport fee. Traceable overnight delivery service costs $14.85
and is highly recommended by the State Department.
Application
Form: It is necessary to have completed the application form and appear
in person at a Passport Agency or Passport Facility in order to have
rush service. You can print out copies of the application form from the
Department of State's website. Be sure to make or keep a copy for your
records.
Documents: Take all documents with you to your
appointment. When you make your appointment ask what documentation is
required. You may be asked to provide copies of these documents in order
to process your application. Even minor children need to accompany you
to this appointment.
Photographs: Some passport agencies provide
passport photo service. Two, two inch by two inch photographs will be
required for each passport application. These photos need to be of your
head and shoulders only.
Expedition Agencies: There are many
agencies that offer expedition services for passports. These companies
can reduce you wait from weeks to days. Their services come at a cost so
be prepared to pay double or triple what rush service from the State
Department charges.
Emergency Situations: In the event that you
need a quick passport due to a medical emergency or life and death
situation in another country the U.S. State Department can help. Log
onto their website for passport applications and look for the section
regarding life or death emergencies.
Most people will not find
themselves in a position to need a quick passport but should you fine
that you need one, there are ways to get a passport safely and quickly.
C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert
in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel
destinations around the world for How to Get a Passport
[http://www.how-to-get-a-passport.com] and other travel sites as Web Content Provider.
