Passports
The United States Department of State is currently experiencing unprecedented delays in processing passports. Before you book your travel, please review your travel requirements and passport needs and account for current passport processing and mailing times.
According to the U.S. Department of State, current passport processing times are now at least 13 weeks. The processing time for expedited passport service, the “rush” service provided by the State Department, is now at least 9 weeks.
The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport in the mail.
How to Apply for or Renew a Passport
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you must apply in-person at a passport acceptance facility, which depending upon your zip code may include post offices, clerks, public libraries, and other local government offices. Where to Apply for a Passport Nationwide (state.gov)
- If you already have a passport that is not damaged, was issued in the last 15 years, was received after your 16th birthday, and has your same name, you can apply for a passport renewal by mail. Renew my Passport by Mail (state.gov)
- According to the State Department, inadequate passport photos are the number one reason applications are delayed. Double check specific requirements related to valid photos.
- You can track your passport using the State Department’s passport progress tracker by entering your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Updates may not be available for up to two weeks after you submit your application.
- You can also sign up for email updates on your passport.
Emergency Passport Assistance
If you are facing an urgent or life-or-death emergency, please visit the State Department website to learn how they may expedite the process. How to Get my U.S. Passport Fast (state.gov)
If you still require passport assistance with your urgent or emergency international travel situation (and have already applied for a first-time or renewal passport), we may be able to help.
1) Please complete the required Privacy Release Form. Under “Agency Involved” use the drop-down menu to designate the Department of State.
If you are completing the privacy release form for a minor child, please be sure to provide the child’s name, the child’s social security number, and the child’s passport locator number.
2) Also provide the following:
- proof of travel (confirmed flight itinerary with traveler name(s) listed)
- passport locator number
- the date you applied and if you paid for expedited service.
** We cannot begin to review your case unless you have provided the information requested above.**