How to Expedite a U.S. Passport
Four ways to get your passport faster — from government expedited service to registered couriers. Find the best option for your timeline and budget.
When Should You Expedite?
You should consider expediting your passport if you are traveling internationally within the next 8-10 weeks. Routine processing takes 4-8 weeks, but during peak seasons or at busy processing centers, it can take longer. Here is how to decide:
You Should Expedite
- Traveling within 8-10 weeks
- Need flexibility in case of delays
- Applying during peak season (Jan-Mar, May-Jul)
- Previous application had errors or delays
Routine Is Fine
- Traveling in 3+ months
- Renewing a passport that is not urgently needed
- Applying during off-peak months
- Want to save the $60 expedite fee
Option 1: Government Expedited Service
The most affordable way to get your passport faster is to add the $60 expedited fee to your standard application. This is available for both first-time applications (Form DS-11) and mail-in renewals (Form DS-82).
How It Works
First-Time Applicants
Apply in person at an acceptance facility and request expedited service. Pay the standard fees plus $60.
Renewals by Mail
Include the $60 expedited fee with your DS-82 renewal. Write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the mailing envelope.
Request Fast Return Shipping
Add $22.05 for 1-2 day return shipping so your passport gets back to you quickly once processed.
Option 2: Regional Passport Agencies
The U.S. Department of State operates 26 Regional Passport Agencies and Centers across the country. These facilities process passports for travelers with urgent travel needs — typically within 14 days (or 28 days if you also need a visa).
Appointments Are Extremely Limited
You must call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to make an appointment. Phone lines open at 8:00 AM ET and appointments often fill within minutes. Be prepared to call multiple times. You cannot walk in without an appointment.
What to Bring
- Proof of international travel within 14 days (flight itinerary, hotel reservation, or cruise booking)
- Completed Form DS-11 (if first-time) or DS-82 (if renewal)
- All required documents (citizenship proof, ID, photo, etc.)
- Payment for all fees
Major Regional Agencies
Option 3: Registered Passport Couriers
A registered passport courier is a private company authorized to hand-deliver your application to a Regional Passport Agency on your behalf. This is often the most reliable option for urgent travel because you do not need to secure your own appointment at a Regional Agency.
How Courier Service Works
Complete Your Application
Fill out the appropriate form (DS-11 or DS-82) and gather all required documents.
Courier Reviews Your Documents
The courier checks your application for errors and completeness before submission.
Hand-Delivered to Regional Agency
The courier takes your application to a Regional Agency using their own appointment slots.
Receive Your Passport
Processing takes 24 hours to 14 days depending on urgency level. Your passport is mailed or couriered back to you.
Our Recommended Courier
FastPassportCenter.com is a registered passport courier service that can process passports in as little as 24 hours. They handle document review, Regional Agency appointments, and return delivery.
Visit FastPassportCenter.comOption 4: Life-or-Death Emergency
For life-or-death emergencies involving an immediate family member, the State Department provides emergency passport processing. This service is free of charge but requires specific documentation.
Call the National Passport Information Center
1-877-487-2778 (8:00 AM - 10:00 PM ET, Monday-Friday; 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM ET, Saturday)
For after-hours emergencies, call 202-647-4000.
Required Documentation
- Proof of the life-or-death emergency (death certificate, hospital letter, or statement from a mortuary)
- Proof of international travel (flight itinerary showing travel within 72 hours)
- Completed Form DS-11 with all standard documents
- Proof of relationship to the deceased or seriously ill person
Important: Do not use a registered courier for life-or-death emergencies. Contact the State Department directly so they can direct you to the proper emergency process.
Cost Comparison
| Option | Processing Time | Additional Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine | 4-8 weeks | $0 | Traveling in 3+ months |
| Expedited (Govt) | 3-4 weeks | $60 | Traveling in 4-8 weeks |
| Regional Agency | 1-14 days | $60 expedite + travel costs | Traveling within 14 days, can get appointment |
| Registered Courier | 24 hours - 14 days | Courier fee (varies) + $60 expedite | Traveling within 14 days, wants reliability |
| Life-or-Death Emergency | 24-72 hours | $0 | Life-or-death family emergency abroad |
Our Recommendation
2+ months before travel: Apply with routine service. You have plenty of time and will save the $60 expedite fee.
1-2 months before travel: Add the $60 government expedited service. This is the sweet spot where expedited service gives you peace of mind without needing a courier.
Under 2 weeks before travel: Use a registered courier like FastPassportCenter.com. Regional Agency appointments are extremely difficult to secure on your own, and a courier is the most reliable path at this timeline.
Life-or-death emergency: Call the State Department directly at 1-877-487-2778. Do not use a courier for this situation.