For any international traveler, a passport is a necessity. So what happens when you discover your passport is expired right before a trip abroad? Don’t panic! You have options. Here’s how you can get a passport fast in the U.S., from standard expedited processing to emergency services.
Update: The U.S. State Department announced the return of an online passport renewal trial service, with plans to soon expand the system for all users.
Find out how to renew your passport online.
How long does it take to get an expedited passport?
Expedited passports take 2 to 3 weeks to process, and that doesn’t include shipping times. Shipping can add up to 2 weeks to the processing timeline, so if you’re in a rush, you’ll want to pay for faster delivery both ways.
How to apply for a new passport with expedited services
You will need to apply in-person at an official passport acceptance facility, if you are applying for:
- your first U.S. passport,
- your child who is younger than 16,
- renewing a passport that was issued when you were younger than 16,
- renewing a passport issued more than 15 years ago,
- applying for a new passport after your previous one was lost, stolen or damaged.
In these situations, you will need to fill out Form DS-11 and provide the following:
- provide evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy,
- present a valid form of identification and a photocopy,
- provide a passport photo,
- pay a $130 application fee for adults or a $100 application fee for children, a $35 acceptance fee, and a $60 fee for expediting.
How to renew your passport with expedited services
If you are renewing an eligible passport (one issued to you within the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older), you can renew by mail or online. You will need to fill out Form DS-82 and:
- submit your most recent U.S. passport,
- provide a passport photo,
- pay a $130 application fee and a $60 fee for expediting,
- and mail everything via the United States Postal Service.
How long is the current wait for a US passport?
There are four ways to get a new passport, and each has a different processing time. Anyone can apply for a new passport or renew their existing passport via routine and expedited services, but you will need to meet special qualifications to apply or renew via urgent or emergency services.
- Routine: 4 to 6 weeks
- Expedited: 2 to 3 weeks
- Urgent travel (at a passport agency): for travel within 14 days or for a required visa within 28 days
- Life-or-death emergency: for travel within 14 days with documented emergency
How to make an appointment to get a passport fast?
Getting an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency is your fastest route if you’re traveling within 14 days. Here’s how to secure one:
To make an urgent travel appointment (for international travel within 14 days or for a required visa within 28 days), call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET. You’ll need proof of travel (like flight itineraries or tickets) to book your appointment.
For life-or-death emergency appointments specifically, call the same number during business hours. If you need to reach someone after hours (Saturdays, Sundays, federal holidays, or after 8:00 p.m. ET on weekdays), call 202-647-4000 to reach the duty officer for emergencies.
How to get a passport fast in case of emergency?
The U.S. Department of State offers life-or-death emergency appointments for those needing to travel internationally within 14 days if an immediate family member has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening condition. In this instance, immediate family means parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings, or grandparents.
You will need to provide documentation of the emergency (such as a death certificate, mortuary statement, or signed letter from a hospital or medical professional on letterhead), as well as proof of your international travel (like flight itineraries or tickets). For your appointment, you will need to complete the correct form (DS-11 for new applications or DS-82 for renewals), provide a passport photo, and present a valid form of ID.
Can you get a passport in one day?
Yes, same-day passport service is possible, but only at Regional Passport Agencies and only for travelers with urgent needs. You must be traveling internationally within 14 days (or within 28 days if you need a visa), and you must be available to attend an in-person appointment at one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies across the country.
In documented life-or-death emergencies, agencies can and do issue passports the same day, though this isn’t guaranteed. Appointments are extremely limited, and you may need to travel across the country for one. The Department of State has announced plans to open six additional passport agencies (in Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Orlando, Charlotte, San Antonio, and Cincinnati), which should expand availability in the future.
Our tips to be sure you’ll get your passport on time
- Check your passport’s expiration date before you book international travel. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
- If renewing by mail, pay for faster delivery both ways. This can reduce the overall timeline of your passport processing and shipping by up to four weeks.
- Be ready to book a last-minute flight for an in-person appointment. If you’re in a pinch, you won’t have the luxury of convenience. Appointments are very limited, and you may need to travel across the country for one.
- Track your application status online at the U.S. Department of State’s website about 7 to 10 business days after applying. You’ll need your last name, date of birth, and either the last four digits of your Social Security number or your application number.
Should you use a passport courier expeditor company?
There are private companies that offer to handle your passport application or renewal for you, including expedited services. While many (but not all) of the companies are legit, they usually charge hundreds of dollars in additional fees for services that are free via the U.S. Department of State.
Before using a private expeditor, verify their business registration, search for reviews on the Better Business Bureau or Trustpilot, confirm they don’t make guarantees only the State Department can issue, and get a clear written breakdown of all fees. Remember, you can handle everything directly through the government for much less.
Where to travel while you wait for your new passport?
If you don’t have a passport in your possession, you’re in luck. The U.S. has plenty of incredible destinations for your next vacation, no passport necessary.
- For culture: New Orleans, Louisiana, or Flushing, New York
- For nature: Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, or Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska
- For European flair: Solvang, California; Leavenworth, Washington; or Frankenmuth, Michigan
- For wine: Napa, California; Sonoma, California; or Walla Walla, Washington
Bottom line
It’s possible to get your passport fast, but you’re best off applying or renewing well in advance of your international trip!
FAQs
No, an expired passport generally cannot be used for international travel. You need a valid passport to enter most countries and to re-enter the U.S. If you must travel urgently with an expired passport, contact a Regional Passport Agency immediately for emergency processing options.
Yes, the State Department now offers an online renewal portal for eligible applicants beyond the initial trial phase. Check travel.state.gov for current eligibility requirements and instructions. If you qualify, the site will guide you through the secure online renewal process with potentially faster turnaround times.
Immediately complete Form DS-64 to report the loss or theft, then apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility. Bring ID, a passport photo, proof of citizenship (if available), and any police report if requested. Processing may be expedited if you have urgent travel needs.
Both parents or guardians must appear with the child (or provide Form DS-3053 if one parent can’t attend). Bring the child’s proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate), ID for both parents, one passport photo, Form DS-11, and any custody documentation if applicable.
Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date, while some require three months or more. Always check entry requirements for your specific destination well before travel to avoid being denied boarding or entry.
Verify business registration, search for BBB or Trustpilot reviews, confirm they don’t make guarantees only the State Department can issue, and get a clear written fee breakdown. Remember, many legit services charge high fees for something you can do directly through the State Department for much less.
The foregoing article was last updated in December 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/courier-and-expeditor-companies.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html
