Good news! The U.S. Department of State reports it offers expedited passport services to U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad this summer, including families going on summer vacations and students participating in study abroad programs. "While we urge U.S. citizens to apply as early as possible for their passport needs, the Department offers convenient options for those who need their travel documents sooner than our standard 4-6 week processing time," State said.
Expedited passport applications may be submitted at one of over 8,000 acceptance facilities around the country including clerks of courts and U.S. Post Offices. First time passports, passport renewals, additional visa pages, and data corrections all qualify for expedited service. Applicants must pay an additional $60 expedite fee and allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.
Applicants with urgent travel plans may apply directly at one of the Department’s 26 passport agencies and centers across the country. Depending on the agency, proof of travel occurring within 14 days may be required. Please refer to State's website for agency-specific information regarding what is required for an appointment. Applicants must call the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-287-4778 to make an appointment at an agency.
Passport expeditor/courier services are private, third-party companies, some of which are registered at passport agencies and are allowed to submit expedited passport applications on behalf of customers. These companies are not government contractors and do not operate as a part of the U.S. Department of State. Passport expeditor/courier companies charge additional fees for their services.
Customers utilizing these companies do not receive their passport any faster than those applying directly at a passport agency, State said.
"We encourage individuals needing passport information to first visit the Department’s official website at http://travel.state.gov. The website contains information about what is needed to apply for a passport, online applications, fees, and processing times. "
This information can also be obtained by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778 or TDD/TTY at 1-888-874-7793.
Visit www.state.gov