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It’s not uncommon for it to take multiple weeks or even months to receive a new passport via the U.S. mail.
However, not everyone has the time to wait for their passport to arrive if they have a big international trip planned.
Here are four ways to expedite your passport to speed up the notoriously lengthy process:
Request an expedited passport through the U.S. State Department’s website.
The State Department recently announced that you can renew an adult passport online, but they explained that it won’t arrive faster than it would if you mail in your application.
An expedited passport costs $60 but it is expected to arrive in half the time it would normally take. An expedited passport will take 2-3 weeks.
Schedule an in-person appointment with a passport agency
If you have a trip coming up within two weeks, you can request an in-person appointment with your nearest passport office. You are required to have proof of your travel plans. However, the $60 expedite fee still applies.
Special in-person appointments can be made if a family member dies, is injured, or is in end-of-life care. The State Department requires proof of this including:
A death certificate, statement from a mortuary, or letter from a hospital that's signed by a doctor. If it's not in English, the document should also be translated.
Proof that you are traveling to a foreign country in the next two weeks such as an itinerary or plane ticket.
Use a private service
There are companies that specialize in getting your passport renewed in a short amount of time. In some cases, they can complete it in 24 hours, but it’s going to cost you.
A few of these companies include Rush My Passport, Clear, and HelloGov.
In order to receive your expedited passport in 2-4 days, these companies charge around $600.
Travel expert, Michael Delucca, said “Personally, I have used Rush My Passport and found it to be an enjoyable experience. I followed the steps online, got a passport photo taken at CVS, filled out the passport documentation, provided a copy of my state-issued ID and birth certificate, along with a check for the passport office. After sealing my documents in an envelope, I mailed it off, and three business days later I had my newly minted passport in hand.”
Contact your state representative
Start by finding out who your federal congressional representative is by visiting the U.S. House of Representatives website and enter your ZIP code to find them.
Next, write an email to them that explains your situation and why you need your passport expedited. Be sure to provide any supporting documents that prove your travel plans.
If you don’t hear back in a few days, you can contact their office to follow up.
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