What To Know
- Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need to renew an expiring passport, finding a passport agency can save you precious time.
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to find a passport agency near you, ensuring a seamless and expedited passport acquisition process.
- If you need a passport within 24 hours, you can apply for a same-day passport at a passport agency.
Obtaining a passport can be a daunting task, especially when time is of the essence. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need to renew an expiring passport, finding a passport agency can save you precious time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to find a passport agency near you, ensuring a seamless and expedited passport acquisition process.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for an Agency Appointment
Not everyone qualifies for an expedited passport appointment at a passport agency. To determine your eligibility, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website and review the following criteria:
- Travel within 2 weeks
- Life-or-death emergency
- Urgent business travel
If you meet any of these requirements, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Locate Passport Agencies Near You
The Department of State maintains a network of passport agencies across the United States. To find the agency closest to you, follow these steps:
- Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html
- Click on “Find a Passport Agency”
- Enter your city, state, or zip code
- A list of nearby passport agencies will be displayed
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Once you’ve identified the nearest passport agency, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Appointments can be made online or over the phone.
Online Appointments:
- Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do
- Click on “Schedule an Appointment”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to create an account and select an appointment time
Phone Appointments:
- Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778
- Follow the prompts to schedule an appointment
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Before your appointment, gather all the necessary documents:
- Completed passport application (Form DS-11)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
- Proof of identity (valid driver’s license or state ID card)
- Two recent passport-style photos
- Payment for passport fees
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
Arrive at the passport agency on time for your appointment. Bring all required documents and be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and eligibility.
What to Expect at Your Appointment:
- Your documents will be reviewed
- You will be interviewed by a passport specialist
- Your passport photo will be taken
- You will pay the passport fees
Step 6: Track Your Passport Application
After your appointment, you can track the status of your passport application online or by phone.
Online Tracking:
- Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: https://passportstatus.state.gov/
- Enter your application number and last name
Phone Tracking:
- Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778
Step 7: Receive Your Passport
Once your passport is approved, it will be mailed to the address you provided on your application.
Expedited Processing Times:
- Passports processed at a passport agency typically take 2-3 business days to be issued
- Passports processed through regular channels can take 4-6 weeks
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Apply for your passport well in advance of your travel dates
- Make an appointment as soon as you determine your eligibility
- Gather all required documents before your appointment
- Arrive at your appointment on time
- Track the status of your application regularly
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the cost of a passport?
A: The cost of a passport varies depending on the type of passport and the processing time. For a standard passport, the fee is $165 for adults and $135 for children under 16. For expedited processing, an additional $60 fee applies.
Q: What if I need a passport immediately?
A: If you need a passport within 24 hours, you can apply for a same-day passport at a passport agency. However, this service is only available in select cities and requires an additional fee.
Q: Can I renew my passport at a passport agency?
A: Yes, you can renew your passport at any passport agency. The requirements for renewing a passport are similar to those for obtaining a new passport.
Q: What is the difference between a passport agency and a passport acceptance facility?
A: Passport agencies are operated by the U.S. Department of State and offer expedited passport services. Passport acceptance facilities are typically located in post offices and other locations and offer limited passport services, such as accepting passport applications.
Q: Can I make an appointment for someone else?
A: Yes, you can make an appointment for someone else if you have their written consent. You will need to provide their name, date of birth, and contact information when scheduling the appointment.
