Important Due to Covid-19, processing times for passports are taking longer than normal for both standard and expedited services.
Passport appointments can be hard to get. But if you need a new passport, you have no choice. You have to visit either a regional passport agency or a local passport application acceptance facility.
There is a good reason for this. You must sign your DS-11 application for a new passport in front of an Acceptance Agent. You also must swear an oath. These are key requirements for a new passport. No one else can do these on your behalf.
There are 2 ways to make a passport appointment online. Your choice depends on how quickly you need your new passport:
- Routine passport processing appointments are available online through the United States Postal Service. Users can use the online appointment scheduler to apply for a new passport in person at an application acceptance facility.
Both individual and family appointments are available. Some locations offer passport photo services, as well.
Be advised: passport processing time can take up to 12 weeks.
- Expedited passport processing appointments are only for those who need to get a passport expedited at a regional agency in 6 weeks or less. Online scheduling is no longer available through the U.S. Department of State.
According to the State Department website:
Currently, the only way to schedule an appointment is to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (TDD/TTY 1-888-874-7793) from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
Routine appointments are usually easier to get than those at regional passport agencies. Yet, you still may find it hard to get one depending on demand and the season.
The USPS system is explained below. You can also click here for more information about making an urgent appointment at a regional agency.
What if you need a new passport fast?
Passport expediting services can help you get your new passport fast. However, an expediter can't get you out of the DS-11 signature or oath requirements. Even if you are using a passport expediting service to get a new passport fast, you will still need to make an appointment to sign your form in person.
The good news is that you can sign your DS-11 and complete your oath at one of the thousands of passport offices across the country. The form can then be mailed or handed to a passport expediting service. THey will be able to rush your application at a regional passport agency for you.
One expediter we highly recommend is Rush My Passport. Their credentials include:
- Over a decade of experience expediting passports
- Multiple offices across the country
- A partnership with FedEx Office
- Features in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, The Los Angeles Times, MSNBC, and many other news and travel outlets.
- Hundreds of 5-star reviews on Yelp, TrustPilot and other third-party review sites.
USPS Online Passport Appointment System: Application Acceptance Facilities
The United States Postal Service online passport appointment system is simple. In most cases, it is better than the previous system of requesting appointments by phone.
Here's how it works:
Step 1: Choose a Service
The first step is to select the passport service you need from the drop down menu.
There are four options:
- New Passport Only
- New Passport with Photo Service
- Passport Photo Only
- Passport Renewal
If you select Passport Renewal, you will see the following message:
This is because you do not need to apply in person to renew a passport. Check that you meet the requirements for a passport renewal. If you qualify, complete form DS-82 and mail it to the address on the form. You can also choose to expedite your passport renewal if you need to.
Apply for a new passport if you need:
- a first-time passport
- a minor's passport
- to replace a lost, stolen or significantly damaged passport.
- to replace a passport that is over 15 years old
- to replace a current passport that issued before a person was age 16
Next, select the total number of adult and minor applicants. For passport purposes, a minor is anyone under the age of 16.
You can select up to 6 adults and 6 minors for a single appointment.
Step 2: Choose Search Method
The online appointment system allows you to search by Location or Date. We recommend you search by Location first to find the passport offices nearest to you. If the nearest locations do not have available dates that work for you, try searching by date.
Know that the online system has some limitations:
- The system does not include all the passport application acceptance facilities that exist.
- The system does not show some offices. Some that are missing include public libraries, local government offices, and post offices that do not need an appointment.
Moving on. At this step you can check the small box to include locations that offer photo services. This is an option even if you did not include this service in Step 1.
Next, you will see a list of passport application acceptance facilities within the radius you chose. On larger devices, maps will also appear. Hovering over the "i" icon next to a location will bring up a list of Appointment Hours (pictured below).
If you don't get any results, you need to increase the radius.
Once you find a location that has hours that work for you, click the "Select Location" button. A section will open for you to select a date.
A window will open with a calendar. Find the date you want to submit your passport application and click the "Select Date" button.
Step 3: Select a Time
Select an available time from the list. The schedule has 15 minute slots for each application. As such, you will need a longer appointment slot if you need many passports at once.
Once you make your selections, they will be listed on the page for you. Make a mistake? You can click the "Edit" link to make any changes.
Step 4: Provide Contact Information
Enter your first name, last name, telephone number, and e-mail address. You can also request to receive text message updates. This is a good way to make sure you get reminders and information about your appointment.
Be sure to check the box to agree to the Terms and Conditions. You cannot make your appointment without doing so.
Review the Privacy Act Statement then click the button to review your information.
Step 5: Review & Confirm Appointment Information
Before moving on, review everything. Make sure your personal information is correct. Confirm and note your chosen location, date, and time of your appointment. Once you're sure everything is good to go, click the button and confirm your appointment.
If any of the information is incorrect, click the "Edit" link and make any necessary changes.
It's possible you can't get an appointment close enough or as soon as you need. If you need more choices than what the online system offers, visit our passport facility directory. It includes a larger list of state-by-state listings to choose from.
If you need to apply for a passport by a specific date but no passport office near you has an appointment available, visit our passport facility directory for more options.
Related Articles: What to bring to a passport appointment
In a Hurry? Get Reliable Expedited Passport Courier Service:Expedite My U.S. Passport Now!
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry?
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?
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FAQs
How can I schedule my passport appointment online? ›
- Visit the DFA Online Passport Appointment System website.
- Read the Terms and Conditions, and then tick the box. ...
- There are two options: INDIVIDUAL Appointment and GROUP Appointment. ...
- Choose a DFA office/branch. ...
- Select a date and time from the provided calendar.
While the timeline fluctuates throughout the year, "right now our current processing times for passports are six to nine weeks for routine [processing] and three to five weeks for expedited processing," said Rachel M. Arndt, the State Department's deputy assistant secretary for passport services.
Is it faster to apply for a passport online or in person? ›There are courier companies that offer expedited passport services for a (sometimes hefty) fee, but according to the State Department, you wouldn't receive your passport any faster than if you went to a passport agency to apply in person.
Can I go to passport office without appointment? ›You must book an appointment for an urgent passport application before you call or visit a centre. Use the normal service if you do not need a passport urgently.
How long are passport appointments taking? ›The earliest you can get an appointment is 2 days from when you apply. You'll get your new passport at your appointment. Appointments can last up to 30 minutes.
Can I book a fast track passport appointment over the phone? ›If you cannot use the online service
You can book an appointment and pay over the phone if any of the following apply: you cannot use a computer, a smart phone or the internet. you do not have a debit or credit card.
- From 8am-8pm ET, Mon-Fri (excluding federal holidays), call 1-877-487-2778. Se habla español.
- Outside of these hours, call 202-647-4000.
Current expedited processing times. Choose this service if you are traveling in less than 11 weeks from the date you submit your application. Expedited service takes 5 to 7 weeks, and does not include mailing times which may add several weeks on to the door-to-door time it takes to receive your passport.
How long do passport interviews last? ›The interview will last approximately 30 minutes for an application from the UK and 60 minutes for an application from overseas. The customer service officer (CSO) who interviews the customer must: compare the customer with the facial image shown on the passport issuing system (if the application is for an adult)
Can I go to the passport office to speed up my application? ›Note that applicants don't need to go to the passport office dealing with their application, they can go to their nearest passport office if that's closer, which can request a transfer of their documents.
How long does a passport take if you apply online? ›
How long does a passport renewal take? The actual process of filling out the form online should take you no more than 20 minutes. Once you've submitted all your information – provided there's no mistakes – your passport should be with you within 3 weeks.
Is it better to apply for passport online? ›It's cheapest to apply for a passport online
It has options for getting your first passport, renewing an old one or getting one for your child. You can apply online, which is the cheapest option, or by paper at the Post Office.
It costs £142 for an adult and £122 for a child, and requires you complete and present a paper application from the Post Office. Of late, these slots have been released daily at around 5pm.
How can I get a normal passport quickly? ›- Apply for passport.
- Fill Passport form online.
- Appointment Booking Process.
- Submit an Application at PSK.
- Check Application Status.
- SENIOR CITIZENS – applicant may be accompanied by one adult but only the application of the Senior Citizen will be accommodated.
- PERSONS WITH DISABILITY (PWDs) – must be able to present a valid PWD ID Card or Medical Certificate.
You can call the HMPO at +44 (0)300 222 0000.
Can I get my passport in one day? ›Can I get my passport in one day? If you can score one of the extremely limited walk-in appointments at one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies across the country, you may be able to get it on the same day with proof of an international flight that departs within 48 hours.
What documents should I carry for passport appointment? ›- Photo Passbook of running bank account in any public sector bank, private sector bank and regional rural banks.
- Water bill.
- Election Photo ID card.
- Landline or Postpaid mobile bill.
- Proof of Gas Connection.
- Election Photo ID card.
The Fast Track service is a guaranteed 7-day service. However, if we receive a customer's application after our cut-off time, it will be a guaranteed 8-day service. This service is only available by appointment at an APC. Customers may apply for Fast Track Collect and get their passport from an APC.
How much extra is it to fast track your passport? ›However, if you need your passport sooner, priority processing might be the answer. Our Priority Service is available for $225, with your passport ready to be mailed or collected in just two business days once we've received all your documents from Australia Post.
What happens if my passport doesn't come in time? ›
Our processing times begin the day we receive your application at a passport agency or center, not the day you mail your application or apply for a passport at a local acceptance facility. If you did not receive your passport in this time period, you can request a refund of the $60 expedited service fee.
What will deny you from getting a passport? ›Reasons for denying a passport include a valid, unsealed federal warrant of arrest, a federal or state criminal court order, a condition of parole or probation forbidding departure from the United States (or the jurisdiction of the court), or a request for extradition.
How can I smile for passport? ›Can I smile in my passport photo? Yes, but make sure both your eyes are open and your mouth is closed in your photo.
Can you travel with an expired passport? ›Recently expired passports cannot be used to travel from the United States to an international destination or to travel to a foreign country for any length of stay longer than an airport connection en route to the United States or to a United States territory.
Can I take a passport photo with my phone? ›Yes, you can use your iPhone, Android device, or other smartphone to take your passport photo. Make sure you follow all guidelines when taking the photo to include a white background, good lighting, and a friend for assistance (selfies are not allowed).
How much does it cost to expedite a passport? ›The expedited passport fee of $300 per application is applicable.
Can you do a passport interview online? ›Making the Appointment
If you live in a very remote area, there might be alternative options for an interview closer to home. You can't book your appointment online, so you'll have to give the passport office a ring and try to book a slot which suits you.
Unlikely that you will fail passport interview. It is not a test. They will ask you questions to confirm your identity and these questions will likely be things that only you will know.
What happens during passport appointment? ›Your paperwork will be examined. Documents that are surplus to requirements will be given back. The Passport Seva (PSP) Portal will get the necessary documents for upload. Step 3: After that, you will receive a printout of the personal data you supplied, which must be read over and signed.
How long does a first passport take? ›Processing time is 3 - 4 weeks.
How long does it take to print passport after being approved? ›
In case of renewals, the passport can be printed and dispatched as fast as one day and in case of other issues it takes upto 3 weeks.
What is best online passport service? ›RushMyPassport is the #1 most trusted online U.S. Passport Courier Service. We save you time and a trip to the passport office. Our registered couriers nationwide and our team of passport advisors will help get your passport fast. Starting at $109 + government fees.
Is a passport book enough? ›book? A passport card is cheaper and may be enough for your needs — if you travel by land or sea to eligible countries and don't intend to travel on to other countries. If you think you might travel internationally by air to any international destination, you need a passport book.
What is the cost for applying passport online? ›| Sr. No. | Service Required | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 6. | Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) | Rs.500/- |
| 7. | Replacement of Passport (36 pages) for deletion of ECR / Change in personal particulars (10 year validity) | Rs.1,500/- |
| 8. | Replacement of Passport (60 pages) for deletion of ECR / Change in personal particulars (10 year validity) | Rs.2,000/- |
Please refer the section 'Tatkaal Passports' under INFORMATION CORNER in the home page of this website. Already booked appointment slots freed due to Cancellation or Rescheduling will be released and would be made available for booking by the applicants.
Can I upgrade passport to fast track? ›You may be able to upgrade your application to use the Fast Track or Premium service if you've already applied to renew your passport by post or through the Check and Send service. Upgrades are usually only available in special circumstances – eg you've had to change your travel plans at short notice.
Can I get normal passport in 10 days? ›Tatkal passport now issued within a day, get a normal passport in just 11 days! Check details | The Financial Express.
How many IDs needed for passport 2022? ›In the case of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the agency accepts 12 other IDs and documents to meet its Philippine passport requirements, whether for new applications or renewals. The only conditions? The IDs must still be “readable, untampered, and consistent with your other application documents.”
How do I make an appointment at my local post office for a passport? ›You can call 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY) to schedule an appointment.
How can I get my passport fast in Georgia? ›Pay the $60 expedite fee in addition to the regular application fees. Note: your appointment must be within 14 calendar days of your international travel. If you need a foreign visa, the date of your appointment must be within 28 calendar days of your international travel.
How do I book an appointment at Newport Passport Office? ›
If you need your passport renewal to be processed quick then you need to book for an appointment to visit the Newport Passport office by calling 0300 222 0000.
Is it quicker to apply for passport at post office? ›How do I renew a passport? You can renew an adult passport or child's passport quickly and easily at the Post Office with our Passport Check & Send services. With Digital Check & Send, we complete and submit your application digitally, with no forms to fill in or fuss.
Can you walk in to renew passport? ›As of 23 May 2022, the application process has been updated to allow walk-ins for the following categories: First-time applicants. Individuals applying for passport extension for children aged 13 years and below. Applicants of lost/damaged passport.
Can I go to my local post office to renew my passport? ›While the USPS does offer passport services, it's not possible to have a passport renewed at the local Post Office. A renewal Form DS-82 will be directly processed by the State Department.
What is the quickest I can get a passport? ›Current expedited processing times. Choose this service if you are traveling in less than 11 weeks from the date you submit your application. Expedited service takes 5 to 7 weeks, and does not include mailing times which may add several weeks on to the door-to-door time it takes to receive your passport.
Can I get passport in 3 days? ›How long will it take to get a Tatkaal passport? A: After successful application form submission, with final status as "Granted", you can expect your passport to be dispatched on third working day excluding the date of submission of application - without waiting for the Police Verification Report.
Is Atlanta doing same day passports? ›Are you looking for a New Passport or Passport Renewal in Atlanta, Georgia? At Ambassador Passport and Visa Services, we can process your expedited US passport in as little as 24 hours or even the same day, no matter where in the U.S. you are located.
How do I get a passport in 24 hours in Atlanta? ›If you must obtain a passport within 24 hours, you will need to schedule an appointment with the Atlanta Passport Agency by calling 877-487-2778. The Atlanta Passport Agency is located above the Peachtree Center MARTA station downtown (230 Peachtree Street #1000, Atlanta, GA 30303).
How long does it take to get a passport expedited in Georgia? ›Passport processing by mail typically takes 6-8 weeks to be completed. Expedited passport service by mail, which requires an additional government fee, takes 2-3 weeks. Faster passport expediting services may be available by going in person to the Atlanta Passport Agency.
How much is rush passport appointment? ›Regular – Php 950.00 (12 business days) Expedited – Php 1,200.00 (7 business days)
Can I go to Newport to get my passport? ›
What if I need a passport quickly? There are two ways to apply for an urgent passport but you will need to attend your local passport office. The offices are in Newport, Liverpool, London, Peterborough, Durham, Belfast and Glasgow.