Typically, it takes 6 weeks for the US government to process a
passport application and issue a new passport. If you pay an additional
$60 for expedited passport service, that will cut the time down to 3
weeks. There are other, faster expedited passport options as well.
However, if you need an expedited passport, it's imperative that you
submit all of the appropriate documents the first time. This list shows
what is required:
For Expedited Service At The Post Office
If you don't mind waiting 3 weeks or longer for your passport, you can simply request expedited passport service when you go to the post office to apply. Here's what you will need:
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A passport application form, DS-11
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Government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, ID card or naturalization certificate.
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A clear photocopy of your ID
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Proof of citizenship, such as a certified copy of your birth
certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.
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Two passport photos
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Applicable fees (currently, a $75 application fee and a $25 execution
fee, plus $60 for expedited service and $14.95 for overnight delivery.)
Make sure to write "Expedite" on the envelope.
For Expedited Service At A Regional Passport Agency Office
If you need your passport in 14 days or less, you can make an
appointment a Regional Passport Agency office by calling 1–877–487–2778.
In addition to all of the documents listed above, you will need to bring:
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A copy of your travel itinerary, showing that you will be departing within the next 14 days.
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Your appointment confirmation number
For Expedited Service With a Private Passport Expediting Company
If you don't have a passport agency office nearby or you simply don't
want to go through the trouble of making an appointment, you can also
use a private passport expediting company. To use an expediting company,
you apply as normal at the post office. But, instead of having the post
office forward your paperwork to the Department of State, you have them
"sealed" and send them to the expediting company instead.
When using an expediting company, you'll need all the documents
listed above plus an authorization letter, which is an official letter
giving the expediting company permission to apply for an expedited passport on your behalf.
Author,
Alison Kroulek
