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Passport Backlog Eases: Your Questions Answered

Find the solutions to common passport questions about cost, timing and more.

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Veronica Stoddart,

This year is on track to set a record for the highest demand for passports, according to the U.S. State Department. From October 2022 to September 2023, the State Department issued more than 24 million passport books and cards, the most ever. Passport processing delays were lengthy as a result. Now the State Department said processing times are at pre-pandemic levels.

Amid all the confusion around getting a passport, here are some tips to guide you through the ins and outs of the process.

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Passport application and renewal

How can you apply for a passport.

If it’s your first time, you have to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility .

How should you renew a passport?

To renew, mail the application and supporting documents (your most recent passport, a photo and passport fees) through the U.S. Postal Service. Make sure you’re eligible to renew before you mail in your application.

How long does it take to get and renew a passport?

As of Dec. 18, the State Department reports that processing time for routine applications takes six to eight weeks, down from seven to 10 weeks, for new passports and passport renewals .

Mailing can add up to two weeks for the application to arrive at a passport agency or center and up to two weeks for you to receive your passport.

Expediting a passport

How can you expedite a new passport or renewal.

You can upgrade your passport application from routine to three categories: expedited , urgent travel or emergency for an additional $60 (on top of the application fee of $130 for a new or renewed passport plus the execution fee of $35 for a new one).

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You can also add one- to two-day delivery for $19.53.

Expedited: Choose this service if you’re traveling in less than 10 weeks from the date you submit your application. Processing takes two to three weeks, down from three to five weeks (not including mailing time). You can expedite a renewal by mail or a new passport at an acceptance facility such as a post office, clerk of court, public library or other local government office that accepts passport applications.
Urgent travel: Choose this service if you are traveling within the expedited service time of two to three weeks. Call 877-487-2778 to make an appointment at a passport agency or center within 14 calendar days of your travel date if you have not already applied or within five calendar days if you have already applied (appointments are accepted only by phone). Note: Passport agencies and centers are operated by the State Department and are different from passport acceptance facilities. Appointments are limited and cannot be guaranteed.
Emergency: Choose this service if you have a life-or-death emergency that requires travel within three business days. Call 877-487-2778 or 202-647-4000, depending on the day and time, to make an appointment at a passport agency or center and provide proof of the qualifying emergency and proof of travel.

Another option is to use a private passport expediter or courier service. Some of these companies are registered with State Department passport agencies and are allowed to submit expedited passport applications on behalf of customers. Check the website for language that says “Authorized/Registered by State Department.”

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These companies may charge several hundred dollars for expediting services, or charge for services that are offered for free by the State Department, such as making an appointment and filling out a form. Buyer beware: The State Department may not be able to honor appointments booked via third parties, according to a department spokesperson.

Passport types and options

What is an electronic passport.

An electronic or e-Passport contains an electronic chip with the same information that is printed on the passport’s ID page. It provides protection against identity theft and makes it difficult to use an altered or forged passport.

All U.S. passports issued from 2006 to 2022 were e-Passports, distinguished by the international e-Passport symbol on the front cover. Since then, new passports are Next Generation Passports, redesigned to be safer and smarter with enhanced security features, according to a State Department spokesperson.

When should you get a “backup” passport?

A second passport is useful in a number of situations. For example, if you plan to visit two foreign destinations within a tight time frame and need visas for both.

There may not be enough time to wait for the first visa to be added to your passport before you need to submit your passport to apply for the second visa.

Travel writer and former Travel + Leisure international editor Mark Orwoll discovered this the hard way when he was planning back-to-back trips to countries that both required visas.

When he found out he could get a second passport, he had to pay an expediting service $649 (in addition to the State Department’s $60 expedite fee) to rush it and to facilitate both visas so he could get them on time. “I hated to spend so much money, but the expediter got it for me in a matter of days,” Orwoll says. “Because I travel so much overseas, I decided it was worth it. And besides, it’s pretty cool to have two passports!”

Another reason to have two passports is if a foreign country denies you a visa or entry because your passport has stamps showing travel to certain countries. For example, an Israeli entry or exit stamp will prevent you from entering some Arab countries, such as Kuwait, Lebanon and others. Two passports will allow you to divide your entry stamps.

The second passport will be valid for four years or less, instead of 10 for the original one. You must meet several additional requirements to get it.

Can you add visa pages to a passport?

No. If you need additional visa pages in your passport, you must renew it. If you travel overseas frequently and anticipate needing extra visa pages, apply for a “large book,” which provides 24 extra blank pages for stamps and visas at no extra charge.

Should you keep a photocopy of your passport when you travel?

Yes. Losing your passport on an international trip can be very disrupting. To facilitate getting a replacement, keep a photo of your passport ID page on your cellphone or bring a photocopy with you and store it in a separate place from your passport so you have a record if your passport is lost or stolen, says Kevin Coffey, author of Traveler Beware! An Undercover Cop’s Guide to Avoiding: Pickpockets, Luggage Theft, & Travel Scams . To get a replacement , bring your copy to the nearest embassy or consulate, complete a loss report and an application form, show an additional government ID and supply one recent passport photo.

someone filling out a passport application or renewal form

Passport card

What is a passport card, and where can you use it.

A passport card is a wallet-size document that can only be used to reenter the United States at land border crossings and seaports of entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. It provides a less expensive ($30), smaller alternative to the passport book for those who travel frequently to these destinations by land or sea.

Passport cards cannot be used for international travel by air.

To apply for a passport card , use the same form as applying for a passport book. You can apply for both simultaneously. The processing time for the card is the same as for the book, but cards are only sent via first-class mail.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Nov. 8. It has been updated to reflect new information.

Award-winning travel writer Veronica Stoddart is the former travel editor of USA Today . She has written for dozens of travel publications and websites.

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First-Time Passports

First-time applicants and people who aren’t allowed to get a new passport by mail.

Apply at a Post Office

Expedited Delivery

Renewing Passports

Most people renewing a passport should mail their application directly to the State Department.

Renew by Mail

Passports for Minors

Passports for children under 16 have special requirements. Make sure you are prepared.

Apply for a First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, are 16 or under, or aren't allowed to renew an existing passport by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at the Post Office.

Step 1: Gather Documents Early

Generally, you should apply for your new passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling internationally—at least several months in advance. Passport processing times may vary, so be sure to check the latest State Department service estimates . First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who need a new passport but may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you.

Application forms (unsigned)
Proof of identity document and a photocopy of the front and back
Proof of U.S. Citizenship document and a photocopy of the front and back
Passport fees

Apply for a Passport in Person

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what documents you need.

Complete your Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport on the State Department website.
Print your completed application. DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION. A Postal employee must witness your signature.
Have a passport photo taken.
Photocopy your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.
Post Offices accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for Post Office acceptance fees.
State Department fees are mailed with your application. You can pay with a personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's check, or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State."

Get Started on Your Application

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Post Offices that offer passport services have set hours, and you'll need to schedule an appointment using the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk.

Scheduling Online

Go to Schedule an Appointment .
Choose the passport service you need, along with the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
You can search for appointment by location or date first. If you search by location first, you'll then be asked to choose a date and time; if you search by date first, you'll then need to choose a location and time.
After you choose your appointment location and time, provide your contact information, and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Click Review Appointment , then confirm your appointment.

If you need to modify or cancel your appointment, click the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation number and email address or phone number.

Using a Self-Service Kiosk

Go to a Post Office location with lobby self-service kiosks. Find USPS Locations
At the self-service kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select "Other Services," then "Passport Scheduler."
Choose the passport service you need, then enter the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and choose a location.
Select an available appointment date and time, then agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Enter your contact information and decide if you'd like to receive SMS text notifications.
Review and confirm your information, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize.
Take your printed receipt listing your confirmation number and appointment details.

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees

First-time passport applications have two types of basic fees, the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Passport photos and fees for faster processing are extra. Learn how to calculate fees and what you can use to pay for them.

Application Acceptance Fees – Postal Service

Pay acceptance fees in person at the Post Office. You may pay by check or money order, payable to "Postmaster," debit card, or credit card.

$35.00 - Post Office acceptance fee
$15.00 - Post Office photo fee (if needed)

Application Processing Fees – Department of State

State Department payment is sent with your application package. State Department fees are paid separately from USPS fees.

State Department Fees State Department passport fees vary. Calculate passport fees online .
Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check, payable to "U.S. Department of State."
Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." You can buy a money order at the Post Office with cash, a debit card, or a traveler's check. You cannot pay with a credit card.

Application Status Updates

Use the Online Passport Status System to check your application status if you applied by mail or in person. You may not be able to get a status update for 2 weeks after you apply or renew. During these weeks, your application and supporting documents are on their way to the Department of State. See more information about current processing times on the Department of State page " U.S. Passports ."

Renew a Passport by Mail

If you are eligible to renew your passport, please complete Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 (see completion instructions on the form), and mail your completed renewal application directly to the State Department for processing. To verify if your passport is eligible for renewal by mail, please visit State Department Renew By Mail .

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail

A minor's passport may not be renewed by mail; to renew a minor's passport, you need to submit a new, first-time passport application in person . An adult passport may be renewed by mail if it meets certain requirements.

You can renew your adult passport by mail if you answer "Yes" to all 5 of the following statements:

Your passport:

Is in your possession to submit with your application.
Is undamaged other than normal "wear and tear."
Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
Was issued within the last 15 years.
Was issued in your current name or you can document your name change. (Name changes are explained on Change a Passport .)

If your passport does not meet all these requirements, do not mail your renewal application. You must prepare the same application package as a first-time passport applicant.

State Department Renew by Mail

Apply early for renewals as many countries require that passports be valid for at least 6 months after you enter their country. Learn how to properly prepare your application package and include all the necessary documents so your passport is processed on time.

Complete your Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 on the State Department website.
Print and sign your DS-82 form.
Have a passport photo taken. You can schedule a passport photo-only appointment at a Post Office ™ location.
Calculate your passport renewal fees .
Collect your most recent passport, completed and signed application, renewal fees, and name change documents, if needed.
Use an envelope large enough to fit the application without folding it.
TIP : Pay for Priority Mail Express ® or Priority Mail ® service and get free envelopes that are large enough to hold your application. Order easily online: Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope or Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope .
Address the envelope to the location for your state. See page 2 of your DS-82 form.

How to Renew a Passport - Details

Step 3: Mail Your Renewal Application

Department of State recommends using a USPS delivery tracking service to mail your renewal application.

Choose one of the following services:

USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Delivery Confirmation
USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Signature Confirmation
USPS Priority Mail Express ® Service (for overnight delivery requests)

Compare Delivery Tracking Services

Step 4: Follow Your Application Progress

If you use a USPS delivery tracking service, go to USPS Tracking ® to see when your package is delivered.

With a USPS tracking service, you can see when your application arrived using the tracking number on your receipt.

USPS Tracking Status

U.S. Passport Application Status

Expedited Passport Delivery

Get a new passport faster in emergencies & special cases.

If you need your passport faster for emergency travel or another special case, you can send your passport application via Priority Mail Express ® service and pay the State Department fee for faster delivery.

Life-or-Death Emergency

If you need to travel within 72 hours (3 business days) for an immediate family member who is dead, dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury:

Visit the Life-or-Death Emergencies page on travel.state.gov to learn if you are eligible.
The State Department processes these requests by appointment only.
Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel.

Urgent Travel in Less than 10 Weeks

If you are traveling in less than 10 weeks, you must call the State Department Passport Agency to schedule an appointment:

You can call 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY) to schedule an appointment.
Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel, and you must provide proof of travel.

Note : An extremely limited number of appointments are available for customers who are traveling internationally in the next 72 hours (3 business days), and other restrictions apply .

Get My Passport Fast

Renew Your Passport Fast

If you pay an additional $60 for expedited service and mail it with Priority Mail Express , you can get your renewed passport within 10 weeks.

Check your eligibility under Renew Your Passport by Mail, Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail .
Prepare your application as listed under Renew a Passport by Mail, Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package .
Add these special fees, both payable to the U.S. Department of State, to your regular processing fees.
$60.00—Expedited application processing at the State Department
$19.53—1- to 2-day delivery service for faster return shipping to you from the State Department
Clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.
Ship your application to the State Department by Priority Mail Express. Cost varies by location.
Both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of a child's passport. The best way to give consent is for both parents/guardians to go with the child when applying.
Children need evidence of citizenship.
Parents/guardians need proof of parental relationship.
NOTE: Children's passports are only valid for 5 years. They are not "renewable": When a child's passport expires, you must apply for a new passport for them. When making a passport appointment for a child, please choose "New Passport Only" or "New Passport with Photo Services."

Apply for a Minor's Passport

Department of State Passport Website English | Español
Ask Questions at the National Passport Information Center
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Plan Your Trip with the Traveler's Checklist
Get Help in an Emergency Overseas

Lost or Stolen Passports

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State.

Report Your Lost/Stolen Passport

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For Travelers

Apply for a U.S. passport, check wait times, information on crossing U.S. borders, file a travel complaint (DHS TRIP), find overseas travel alerts, join frequent traveler programs, learn what you can bring on a plane, locate a port of entry (air, land, or sea), travel overseas, and visit the United States.

Apply for a U.S. Passport

DHS provides information on the passport application process, obtaining a visa, border crossing documents, and general travel tips.

Check Wait Times

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Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provide information on wait times at airports and border crossings.

Cross U.S. Borders

Travelers traveling through the U.S. must have the required documents needed to enter based upon their citizenship or place of residence.

File a Travel Complaint (DHS TRIP)

The DHS Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) allows individuals to report difficulties about their security screening at transportation hubs or U.S. borders.

Learn What I Can Bring on the Plane

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Learn what you can bring on the plane by reviewing TSA's list of what you can bring on the plane, what you cannot bring on the plane.

Locate a Port of Entry (Air, Land, Sea)

Locate a Port of Entry (Air, Land, Sea) when entering the United States.

Travel Overseas

Find answers to common questions from international travelers about planning for your trip, returning home and navigating passenger processing.

Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP)

TTP provides modified screening for pre-approved members by improving security by being more efficient during screenings at ports of entry.

Visit the United States

DHS provides a full range of online resources to help you plan your trip, manage your arrival and if needed extend your stay when visiting the U.S.

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U.S. Department of State

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Department of State

Passport Forms

Form Finder -- Passport Forms

If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.

An official website of the United States government

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents
Mobile Passport Control

Mobile Passport Control (MPC)

Media assets.

Transcript: https://www.cbp.gov/video/ofo/new-mpc-video.srt

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) allows eligible travelers to submit their travel document, photo, and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. The use of MPC streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time. Use of MPC does not require pre-approval. Travelers who successfully use the MPC app will no longer have to complete a paper form and may be provided a designated queue. As a result, travelers may experience shorter wait times, less congestion and efficient processing.

Eligible Travelers

Currently, the list of eligible travelers are below. This list will be updated as we expand MPC eligibility.

U.S. Citizens
Lawful Permanent Residents
Canadian B1/B2
Returning Visa Waiver Program Applicants

The CBP Mobile Passport Control App

CBP’s MPC app is a free application that can be downloaded from the Apple App store and Google Play and is currently available for eligible travelers to use upon arrival at MPC approved sites . See FAQ question number 2 to see a complete list of current MPC Sites.

New MPC App Experience

As of May 22, 2024 - MPC receipts no longer generate QR codes.
Stay tuned as we have many new exciting features coming soon!

Visit our Mobile Apps Directory for other approved CBP applications for easy download from the Google Play and the Apple App Store.

How does MPC Work?

After downloading the MPC Application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, eligible travelers will be prompted to create a profile with their passport or LPR card information. Upon arrival at eligible Preclearance locations users must select their mode of entry in the application as "Preclearance" before selecting their departing Preclearance Port of Entry. If a traveler is not using preclearance, upon landing in the United States, travelers will select "U.S. airport" as their mode of entry and then select their arrival airport or seaport and terminal. Travelers will then take a self-photo and answer a series of CBP inspection-related questions. Once the traveler submits their transaction through the app, travelers will then bring their physical passport to a CBP officer to finalize their inspection for entry into the United States.

Cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity is required to send information, but travelers may complete profile(s) without being connected to the internet.

Where can eligible travelers use MPC?

CBP uses the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) application to streamline the processing of eligible travelers entering the United States. Eligible travelers with a smartphone or tablet may voluntarily download the Mobile Passport Control (MPC)-enabled mobile application (app) from a mobile application store (e.g., Apple App Store or Google Play Store).

The MPC mobile app, is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitors and returning Visa Waiver Program travelers with approved ESTA. MPC is currently available at the following 51 sites, including 33 U.S. International Airports, 14 Preclearance locations, and 4 seaports of entry:

Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH)
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
Aruba Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA)
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Dublin Airport (DUB)
Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Houston William P. Hobby International Airport (HOU)
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
Las Vegas Harry Ried International Airport (LAS)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami Seaport
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Ottawa International Airport (YOW)
Palm Beach Seaport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
Port Everglades Seaport
Portland International Airport (PDX)
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Jose International Airport (SJC)
San Juan Airport (SJU)
San Juan Seaport
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Shannon Airport (SNN)
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Winnipeg James A Richardson International Airport (YWG)

What are the benefits of using MPC?

MPC provides a more efficient in-person inspection between the CBP officer and the traveler. Since the administrative tasks are performed by the traveler prior to the passport control inspection, MPC reduces passport control inspection time and overall wait times.

When will I be able to submit my information to CBP through an MPC app?

Travelers should submit their information upon arrival at the port of entry, including preclearance locations.

Does MPC replace my passport?

No, travelers must present a valid U.S. Passport, U.S. lawful permanent resident card, Canadian passport or a Visa Waiver Program passport to a CBP officer upon arrival.

Will I still have to go through the processing lines if I use MPC?

Yes, travelers will still be processed by a CBP officer. Travelers using MPC will be directed to a specific processing lane for a streamlined entry process.

Do travelers still have to fill out a declaration form?

No. Travelers will answer CBP inspection-related questions electronically via their smartphone or tablet. If a traveler has already filled out a CBP declaration form, it can be turned in to a CBP Officer.

Can groups use MPC?

Yes, up to 12 travelers can be added under 1 group submission.

Is using MPC secure?

Yes, the traveler’s document information and answers to CBP inspection-related questions are submitted directly to CBP via secure encryption protocols. The information you enter on the authorized applications are securely transmitted to CBP which sends a response to the apps, generating the electronic receipt you may display when entering the MPC queue. The authorized apps provide the option to store your profile on your smartphone or tablet for future travel or deleting it after your trip. Please note that the photo taken on the application will need to be updated periodically. CBP recommends travelers review the application’s privacy policy prior to download and use. Only information entered after the traveler acknowledges CBP’s notices (i.e., CBP’s mobile privacy policy, Section 311 of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015, Disclaimer Statement and the Paperwork Reduction Act Notice) is required to be compliant with CBP’s MPC business requirements.

What happens if my flight is diverted to a different airport?

Travelers will not be able to use MPC if their flight is diverted to a U.S. airport that does not utilize MPC processing. Upon arrival at the diverted airport, travelers will follow standard processing procedures. If you were processed by a CBP officer in Preclearance, you would land as a domestic passenger and can proceed to your destination or connecting flight.

Watch CBS News

Passports can now be renewed online. Here's how to apply.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

June 13, 2024 / 11:24 AM EDT / CBS News

U.S. travelers can now renew their passport online under a pilot program the U.S. Department of State launched on Thursday.

The State Department's new online system will allow U.S. passport holders to start a renewal application for a short window of time every day, closing once the system has reached a designated number of new applications, officials said in a statement . The agency is preparing a full launch of the renewal system at some point after testing, but didn't provide an exact date.

If successful, an online renewal system could shorten the sometimes monthslong process travelers experience when trying to update their passport.

"During the next several months, we plan to continue to limit the number of applications accepted each day so we can monitor the system's performance in real time," the department said. "If you are unable to start your application, try again on another day."

Processing passports has become a growing problem for the State Department ever since COVID-19 travel restrictions were lifted, with the agency bombarded with an overwhelming number of applications each week. The passport application backlog grew so heavy last year that federal lawmakers from California, Colorado and Oklahoma introduced separate proposals to the Senate to speed up the application process.

Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma proposed legislation that would improve the online tracking of passport applications and allow the State Department to hire more staff. Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff and Ted Lieu of California introduced the PASSPORT Act to streamline the passport application and renewal process.

The number of Americans holding valid U.S. passports has grown at roughly 10% faster than the population over the past three decades, said Jay Zagorsky, an economist at Boston University. Just 5% of Americans had a passport in 1990, according to the State Department. That number grew to 48% in December.

The State Department issued a record setting 24 million passports in 2023. Wait times for passport applications and renewals returned to their normal 6-8 week time frame in December , the State Department said .

Renewing your passport online involves a six-step process:

Create a free MyTravelGov online account.
After the account is created, log in and start a renewal application by clicking on the "Renew Your Passport" button.
On the form that appears, fill in all the boxes with the information currently printed on your passport.
Enter your plans to travel internationally if your departure is within the next eight weeks.
Upload a jpeg photo of yourself. No selfies.
Pay the passport renewal fee and digitally sign the application.

Visit the State Department's online renewal website for more details.

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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This free line-cutting app could save you hours at the airport

Skip the wait at customs and immigration with Mobile Passport Control, travel’s best open secret.

A month ago, I flew from Paris back to Baltimore full of despair: My vacation was over , and the trip home seemed to take an eternity .

Then I saw the snaking line for customs and immigration.

What could have sunk me into a deeper woe actually revived me, because I didn’t have to wait in that soul-sucking purgatory. I didn’t have to wait in the shorter but still well-populated Global Entry line, either.

Instead, I headed to a third option that most people miss: the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) line. Thanks to this secret national treasure, I was out of the airport and hailing my Uber in eight minutes. (I timed it.)

You, too, can experience this completely free VIP treatment the next time you fly internationally. Here’s how.

What is Mobile Passport Control?

Think of Mobile Passport Control like a fast pass for international travel. It’s a free service that allows select travelers to access a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) express lane with a smartphone app.

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, a Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitor or a returning Visa Waiver Program traveler with approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

You can use the app only when returning from an international trip at an MPC-approved site . That includes more than 30 U.S. international airports, 14 pre-clearance locations (among them airports in Abu Dhabi, Aruba and Ireland) and four seaports.

Why don’t more people use it?

Although you’ll see signs promoting Mobile Passport around those sites and sometimes ads on in-flight entertainment systems, most people aren’t taking advantage of the service. Just 8 percent of eligible travelers used the app in the 2024 fiscal year, according to CPB spokesman Aaron Bowker, though that’s a 50 percent increase from the year before.

The company Airside Mobile originally developed the app and launched it in 2014, first at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Awareness of its powers seemed to spread mostly by word of mouth and some signs around airports. In 2022, CBP officially took over the app, launching an updated version that left the original defunct. Some travelers missed the memo and figured the service had been discontinued when their app no longer worked.

But CBP is invested in the program’s growth.

“We’ve expanded the population of travelers that are able to use it. We’ve started to educate the airports. Airports have started to put in a better queuing system,” Bowker said. “And so we’re expecting to see this continue to increase.”

How Mobile Passport works

First, download the Mobile Passport app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store . Unlike line-cutting services such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , MPC doesn’t require preapproval or an application process. Even if you forget to do it before your trip, it’s so quick to set up, you can install it as you’re walking up to customs.

When it’s time to pass through, eligible travelers can fire up the app, answer the standard few questions about their trip that they would at a customs kiosk, take a selfie and proceed to a dedicated Mobile Passport lane, where an officer will confirm their details and wave them through. Individual travelers and families of up to 12 people can use the app at once.

It makes me feel like a fancy diplomat — not someone who just spent 12 hours in economy — every time I use it.

Mobile Passport vs. Global Entry

Mobile Passport and Global Entry both promise a faster airport experience. Both also come with pros and cons.

One MPC downside: Although it’s free to use and rarely has a line of more than a few travelers, it’s not at every airport. And Mobile Passport lanes may not always be available even in places that claim to offer it.

CBP spokeswoman Corey Daboin said the agency is aware of that problem. Sometimes, issues are due to infrastructure constraints — some airports may not have the lanes available to operate MPC continuously — or management. The agency stresses, however, that Mobile Passport is a priority, and “we are working on making that so it’s not an issue moving forward,” Daboin said.

If you fly internationally and your home airport doesn’t have MPC yet, Global Entry is a great option. It does cost $100 and requires an application and interview process. But it also comes with a TSA PreCheck membership and is good for five years — plus it’s still light-years better than waiting in that endless regular line.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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The Passport 3 Month Rule - Country Requirements & More

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

Are you ready to plan an international trip? Before booking your tickets and traveling abroad, make that the validity of your passport is up-to-date. One crucial part of this process usually overlooked by people is the 3-month rule enforced by certain countries.

Even if your passport has not expired yet, there are places you cannot travel to or through unless you have at least 90 days' worth of validity remaining before the expiration date. These passport requirements are not negotiable.

If you are looking to travel internationally, you need to be prepared with a passport that will allow you to travel to and through all the countries on your itinerary.

Short Summary

The 3-month passport validity rule requires passports to be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of arrival, with exceptions and special cases.
It is important to research entry requirements, obtain necessary visas in advance, and verify a passport's expiration date before traveling.
If your passport does not have enough validity remaining, you will need to apply in person at a regional passport agency. Alternatively, our expert advice is to enlist the help of a registered passport expediting service to get your passport renewed as fast as possible .
Emergency situations may require contacting one's home nation embassy or consulate to apply for emergency passport renewal service .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Understanding the 3-Month Passport Validity Rule

3 women sitting at an airport looking at their passports

The 3-month passport validity rule mandates that a passport is valid for up to three months after the anticipated date of arrival. This regulation is in place to prevent illegal residency and guarantee travelers possess legal passports throughout their stay. Simply put, if you don't have the right travel documents, countries will deny you entry across their borders.

It's important for people intending to travel abroad to be informed about their destination country's rules about expiring passports. These differ from one nation to another.

While some countries require just a 3 month validity period, others might have different passport validity requirements. Some simply require a valid passport at time of entry. Many countries require more.

For example, many countries impose 6 month passport validity rules where individuals must have at least six additional months left before their passport expires. In some cases, requirements include other validity periods based on the nature of the traveler's stay and the corresponding visa.

To learn more, be sure to check out our guide to the six month validity rule for passports . We also maintain a list of countries that require six months of validity for entry.

Europe, The Schengen Agreement, and the 3-Month Rule

Many European countries are a part of the Schengen Agreement. This decades-old agreement between 27 European countries was designed to make travel within member nations faster, more efficient, and less expensive.

The agreement requires travelers to have valid passports during their stay, and it is governed by a 3-month passport validity rule. This same rule is also imposed by most other non-member nations across Europe in order to ensure that visitors do not overstay beyond their visa period.

Because of this common policy, countries can more efficiently monitor movement at their borders while reducing any risks connected with extended visits.

If you are planning to travel to Europe, be sure to read more about the Schengen Agreement , its rules, and its history.

Countries with a 3-Month Passport Validity Requirement

Again, passport validity is a critical factor for anyone planning international travel. Many European countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement require passports to be valid at least three months after an intended date of departure, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain among others.

Aside from these nations within Europe's borders, other non-European states impose this same 3 month passport rule too. Albania, Guatemala, and Panama being some popular examples.

It is important to research the passport policies for each country you plan on visiting. This is the only way to make sure you don't have hiccups during your travels due to invalid passports or failure to meet requirements regarding particular validity periods (which may also include six month rules). Ensure your U.S. passport holds sufficient time before leaving home by double checking beforehand!

Schengen Area Countries

The following countries are part of the Schengen Agreement and require 3 months of validity remaining on your U.S. passport:

*Travel through the microstates of Monaco , San Marino, and Vatican City are also governed by the Schengen Agreement.

It's necessary that all people in transit through any of these 27 signatory nations are certain their passports maintain at least 90 days of validity throughout the duration of their travels.

Other Countries That Require 3 Months Passport Validity

Be advised that passport validity requirements can change with little notice, so please pay attention to these rules when traveling internationally so you don't stumble upon unexpected complications!

For instance, be sure to pay attention to whether the three month validity rule is calculated based on your date of entry or anticipated date of departure from your desitnation country.

As of 2023, the countries listed below have a 3-month validity rule for U.S. passport holders:

Traveling to Countries with a 3-Month Rule: Tips and Advice

a family walking through an airport together with passports

When it comes to passport validity, researching the passport requirements and regulations of each destination country is key to a successful trip.

Check your passport expiration date

Check if you need a visa.

Certain countries might require a travel visa while others allow you to enter without one. Visas are issued based on why you are traveling (e.g. tourism, school , work , business , etc.). The types and lengths of each visa is determined by each country's bilateral agreements with the United States.

Like passports, visas can take time to acquire, so make sure any permits are obtained well in advance of your trip. Even though some countries offer visas on arrival , there can be issues if you are relying on this type of service.

Be prepared for emergency situations.

Even if you plan on a short trip to a destination with a low (or no) validity rules, you want to be sure you are covered in case you have to stay longer due to a medical or personal emergency. Should you need to travel internationally in a hurry, you want to be sure your passport allows you to take the most direct and efficient route without having to worry about whether your passport has enough months remaining before it expires.

As a rule, it is wise to prepare yourself before any trips by having contingency plans ready just in case anything unpredicted may occur during your trip abroad. There is a chance an unexpected emergency may require you to travel to or through a country with a three or six month validity rule. If your passport has plenty of validity left, this is something you won't have to worry about.

In case of an emergency abroad, such as a lost or stolen passport , you should contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for help. You will not be able to continue your travels without a passport-no matter what the validity rules are for the countries you need to travel to or through.

Based on over 20 years of helping readers with their passport related questions, our best advice is to maintain a valid passport with at least 9 months of validity or more. When your passport gets within a year of its expiration date, don't delay; renew it!

How to Renew Your Passport and Reset Your Passport Validity

Again, if you plan to travel internationally and your passport will not be valid for three months or more, don't wait. Renew your passport as soon as possible. This will ensure you have access to any country that allows American travelers-even if it has a three or six month validity requirement.

To get yourself a new or renewed passport, you need to send an application form along with the required supporting documentation , current passport photos , and pay the passport application fees .

It should be taken into account that the time needed for this renewal process may vary, so making sure everything's in order beforehand can help avoid issues during travel plans. Currently, the time to process a passport application is 6 to 8 weeks . An expedited application will be processed in 2 to 3 weeks .

Be sure to take into account these current processing times for renewal applications before planning any international trips. Also be advised that you will need to submit your current passport as part of the passport renewal process. This means you will not be able to travel internationally until your renewed passport arrives.

Visit our complete guide to renewing a U.S. passport for step-by-step instructions for how to get your passport renewed and our best tips for speeding up the process.

Expedited Passport Services

For those who require a new passport or need to renew theirs in a hurry, expedited services are available. Choosing expedited passport renewal on your application can save you several weeks of waiting for your new travel document, but it may not be fast enough for your needs.

For a faster passport renewal, you can try to make an appointment at one of the 26 regional processing agencies across the U.S. Know that you will need to demonstrate a need to travel internationally within 14 days. This option also includes several additional costs that must be considered.

The fastest and most efficient way to get a passport renewed is through a passport expediting service . These professionals use their expertise and experience to get you a passport faster than you likely can on your own. While they charge a fee for their services, these fees are often much less than what it costs to travel to a regional passport agency on your own and potentially wait days for your new passport to be issued.

Should you opt to go this route, consult our directory of top passport expediters .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with less than 3 months on my passport.

When planning any international travel, it is important to ensure that your passport will be valid for the duration of your trip and beyond. You should have at least three months remaining on your passport before going abroad. Many countries may require a validity period of six months or more.

Most airlines refuse boarding if you don't meet this requirement, so make sure you check in advance! To avoid issues while traveling overseas. For maximum travel flexibility, make certain that there's still enough time left on your passport by checking that it is valid for at least six months after departure dates from each destination on your itinerary.

Can I travel with 2 months on my passport?

Most countries require that your passport remain valid for a minimum of either three or six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you are planning to travel to one of these locations, you can't travel with only two months left. You likely will not even be able to board your international flight as most airlines deny boarding if relevant passport requirements for the destination country are not met.

To make sure that you are able to have a secure and safe journey, be certain to check all details in advance like dates or other information about any passports used before taking off.

However, some countries require only that your passport is valid upon entry. For peace of mind, always be sure your passport has enough extra validity remaining to account for any potential emergencies or disruptions to your travel plans.

Can I travel to Mexico if my passport expires in 3 months?

As long as your passport is still valid for the duration of the trip, you may go to Mexico even if it's expiring in three months. Mexican travel regulations don't mandate any minimum validity period for passports.

Can I travel to Canada if my passport expires in 3 months?

You can go to Canada as long as you have a valid passport during your stay-even if it's expiring in three months. Canadian travel requirements do not have any minimum validity period for U.S. passport holders.

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You Lost Your Passport. Now What?

Summer travel season is upon us. Do you know where your passport is?

An illustration of a traveler, with a rolling suitcase and holding a passport in one hand, walking in front of the open pages of a passport.

By Seth Kugel

While just about every other document is accessible online, a lost passport is one of the last analog emergencies that can derail an international trip.

Here’s a guide to replacing a lost passport according to how fast you need it, how much money you have to spare and where you live. (The process for last-minute renewals of expired passports, by the way, is fairly similar.)

If you’ve got at least three weeks

You’ll be OK. On the State Department website, at travel.state.gov/passports , first report your passport lost and then follow the process for a replacement. On the website, you’ll find a list of 7,500 passport acceptance facilities — including post offices, public libraries and clerk of court offices — where you can make an appointment or, in most cases, come during scheduled walk-in hours. They’ll verify your documents and send them to the State Department, and you’ll get your passport in the mail.

Before the day of your appointment, check what you need to bring , a list that will include at least proof of U.S. citizenship, payment (acceptable forms vary by facility), the right forms (for lost passports, that’s the DS-11 and DS-64) and at most facilities, a properly taken photo .

The “routine” processing time to replace a passport takes six to eight weeks and costs $165; choose the “expedited” service, for an additional $60, to receive your passport in two to three weeks.

You might even get yours “faster than advertised,” said Matt Pierce, a managing director of passport services for the State Department, noting that the pandemic-era backlog was cleared up as of December.

Avoid delays by carefully following instructions, and consider spending an additional $19.53 for faster shipping.

When time is tighter

If your trip is less than three weeks away, you’ll need to take the extra step of going through one of 26 passport processing offices across the United States. If you’re doing it without an outside expediter, you must make an appointment online or over the phone, up to 14 days in advance of your trip.

There are no more walk-ins, an option before the pandemic, but the State Department has increased capacity to eliminate the need for them, Mr. Pierce said, and the offices give special priority to documented “ life-or-death emergencies ” of immediate family members. You’ll need to bring all of your documents, and proof you are traveling soon — like a plane or cruise reservation.

Things can get dicey if you need an appointment in the next day or two. In such cases you can call for an appointment, or contact your local member of Congress.

Laurie Lee, the chief executive of Chicago-based Swift Passport and Visa Services , an expediter, has seen cases where clients on the verge of missing a wedding or another once-in-a-lifetime event spend hours refreshing the site to find a last-minute appointment, and even end up booking flights across the country if they can find an opening. That, of course, costs both time and money.

At the passport office, the process will be similar, except that you’ll likely be able to pick up your passport later in the day. In most cases, said Mr. Pierce, you won’t have to return the next day, but it can happen. (You can also have your passport mailed to you, if you have time.)

Using an expediter

If you have at least three business days and are willing to spend hundreds of dollars for help, consider Swift or one of the other 200-plus agencies registered with the State Department as couriers, or expediters.

Expediters are especially helpful for people who live far from the nearest passport office and cannot or do not want to drive or fly there. But they can also benefit anyone having trouble getting a timely appointment, because they have reserved slots that allow them to bring a client application directly to certain passport offices. Swift, for example, can bring 10 applications a day to the Boston office, and five to the Chicago one. Depending on urgency, Swift’s assistance costs between $155 and $599.

To work with an expediter, you will still need to go to your local passport acceptance facility, like a post office, where workers verify and seal your documents in an envelope, which you then send (or hand-deliver) to the expediter. They’ll take care of the rest, and get your new passport back to you.

What can go wrong

If you’re traveling to a passport agency, leave plenty of time to get there. Screwing up something on the form can also lead to delays that cost you your trip.

“Common errors include signing in the wrong place, not putting the date on their application, having an incorrectly sized passport photo or not being framed correctly in the photo,” said Steve Diehl, chief corporate development officer of CIBTvisas , a large expediter.

Once you get it

When your passport arrives, make digital and paper copies. Change your number on trusted traveler programs like Global Entry, and remember that if your old passport had a visa in it for the country you’re headed to, you’ll also need to rush a replacement of that.

If you do find your old passport later, keep it as a souvenir: It is no longer valid.

If you lose it while abroad

First of all, try not to. Unless you are traveling in a country that strictly requires you to have your passport on your person at all times, stow it in a hotel safe and carry around a photocopy, plus your drivers license.

But if you do lose the passport or have it stolen, report it online to protect yourself from identity theft and then contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for an emergency appointment. You’ll need that paper or a digital copy of your passport, plus similar documents to what you would need for a replacement in the United States. You may receive either an actual replacement passport or an emergency version, usually good for one year.

In a real emergency, you can try a last ditch maneuver: Ask the airline to contact U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to seek permission for you to enter the country without a passport.

Preventative measures

Several expediters advised that many of their clients misplaced their passports during recent moves, so when you pack up your home, be sure to remember where your passport is packed.

Oh, and before you give up on that lost passport, check your home copier or scanner. “I can’t tell you how often people find it in their copy machine,” said Ms. Lee.

An earlier version of this article transposed numbers on a form needed to replace a lost passport with the U.S. government. It is the DS-64 form, not the DS-46.

How we handle corrections

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places: Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Ljubljana, Slovenia: Stroll along the river, explore a contemporary art scene and admire panoramic views in this scenic Central European capital .

Cities With Great Beaches: Already been to Miami, Honolulu and Sydney? These five other coastal destinations are vibrant on land and on the water.

Southern France: The Canal du Midi traverses the Occitanie region and gives cyclists of all skill levels access to parts of France that are rich in lore .

Port Antonio, Jamaica: The D.J. and music producer Diplo recommends spots in a city he loves on Jamaica’s northeast coast. A dance party makes the cut.

New Mexico: Visiting the vast and remote Gila Wilderness, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, is both inspiring and demanding .

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U.S. to Speed Up Passport Processing With Online Renewals and More Agencies

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

June 21st, 2024 at 5:49 PM EDT

With faster passport renewals, Americans will have an easier time traveling internationally.

Dawit Habtemariam

In December 2023, the State Department said it had brought passport processing times to their pre-pandemic levels of six to eight weeks. Two moves in the past two weeks could help bring them down further.

Earlier this week, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said his office is establishing a half-dozen new passport agencies to meet the demand. This will bring the State Department’s total network to 35 and over 7,400 public passport acceptance facilities nationwide.

And a beta test launched last week allows eligible citizens to renew their passports online. This digital fast-track is available to Americans over 25 living in the U.S., with a limited number of slots opening daily at 1 p.m. Eastern.

“Once fully launched, we expect five million customers to be eligible to renew their passports online each year,” a spokesperson told Skift. “We estimate this would represent two-thirds of annual passport renewals and roughly 25% of all passport applications.”

The new agencies and online renewal option come as passport demand soars to new heights. In fiscal year 2023, the State Department issued a record-breaking 24 million passport books and cards. Today, nearly half of all Americans have passports.

The State Department began beta testing the online renewal option last week and plans to continue for “several months.”

During the pandemic, the State Department had experienced long passport processing times – in 2021, the average wait time reached 18 weeks.

Passports to Feed American Hunger for International Travel

The number of destinations American passport holders can enter visa-free has weakened in the past year. The U.S. passport’s power has fallen from sixth to eighth place, according to the Henley Passport Index , a global immigration consultancy firm.

Americans continue to travel abroad in high numbers this year. Over 9 million citizens departed from the U.S. in March 2024, up 15.4% from last year, according to the International Trade Administration’s latest data.

American hunger for travel, driven in part by a strong dollar , is expected to be a driving force in Europe’s tourism recovery this year, according to UN Tourism.

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Fill out your form and print it

Use our Form Filler tool on a desktop or laptop computer. Fill out your form online and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF .

Tips to complete your form:

Complete all parts of the form. Do not sign your form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee.
Print your form on single-sided paper. We do not accept double-sided forms.
Check the information you entered if you did not get the form you expected to receive on our form filler.
You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents using the same form.
You may request a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

Your evidence must be an original or replacement copy. The document must have the official seal or stamp of the office which issued it. You must submit one of the following documents:

Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth
Lists your parent(s)' full names
Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
Has the registrar's signature
Has the seal or stamp from the city, county, or state which issued it
Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
Certificate of Naturalization
Certificate of Citizenship
Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our Citizenship Evidence page for more information.

Tips for making a photocopy :

Black and white (no color)
Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

Returning your document : We will return your citizenship document up to 8 weeks after you receive your passport.

Bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID.

You must show at least one of these photo IDs:

Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card
In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
Certificate of Citizenship
Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
U.S. military or military dependent ID
Current (valid) foreign passport
Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our Identification page for more information.

You may need to provide more information and documents if:

You are applying for a child age 0-15
Your child, who is age 16-17, is applying
Your valid passport is lost or stolen (you must also submit Form DS-64)
Normal "wear and tear" such as folded pages or a small bend do not count as damage. Damage includes stains from a liquid, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing visa pages (torn out), or a hole punch.
You owe over $2500 in child support
You are selecting a new gender marker
You are applying for a special issuance passport
You are a sex offender covered under International Megan's Law

You must provide one photo with your application. Go to our Passport Photo page for photo requirements and to see examples of photos.

Do not attach or staple your photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
Some passport acceptance facilities
A company which offers photo services
Home. Ask a friend or family member to take your photo. Print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper.

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application.

Add $60 to your application fee if you want expedited service .
Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.

Adult Applicants (Age 16 and older):

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our Passport Fees page.

How to fill out your check for the application fee:

In the United States:

Traveling in more than 3 weeks? Go to a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment.
Traveling in less than 3 weeks? Make an appointment to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

Contact your U.S. embassy or consulate .

You can enroll in email updates about your application status, and learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your application status is “In Process.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

New passport book
New passport card
Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at 1-877-487-2778 to report that you have not received your documents.

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document.

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport 1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid.

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine: 6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel. Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it.
Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel: See our Get my Passport Fast page.

External Link

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Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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COMMENTS

Frequently Asked Questions about Passport Services
Call us at 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 if you are deaf or hard of hearing). You'll need either your application number or your last name and date of birth. Get expedited service for $60. Get 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport book for $19.53.
Passport Help
Call 1-877-487-2778. You must have an appointment to go to a passport agency or center. We cannot guarantee an appointment will be available. Call only if: You are changing your mailing address. You want expedited service. You want 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport. Enroll in email updates about your application status.
Contact U.S. Passports
Call 1-877-487-2778. You must have an appointment to go to a passport agency or center. We cannot guarantee an appointment will be available. Call only if: You are changing your mailing address. You want expedited service. You want 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport. Enroll in email updates about your application status.
Passport FAQ
The links below provide additional information to help answer your United States passport questions. General Passport FAQ. Passport Expediting. Expedited Passport Renewal. Passport Renewal FAQ. Passports for Minors (Age 15 and under) Passports for Minor Age 16 or 17. Passports and Child Support Issues. Passport Name Change FAQ.
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How to Get a Passport: Answers to Common Questions
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Passport Information
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Passport Application & Passport Renewal
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U.S. Passports
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Passport application forms are only one or two pages in length plus a few pages of instructions. A few can be completed online. All of them can be downloaded and completed offline. If you complete the application form offline, be sure to use black ink and to write legibly. The acceptance agent will ask you to fill out the form again if you don't.
For Travelers
For Travelers. Apply for a U.S. passport, check wait times, information on crossing U.S. borders, file a travel complaint (DHS TRIP), find overseas travel alerts, join frequent traveler programs, learn what you can bring on a plane, locate a port of entry (air, land, or sea), travel overseas, and visit the United States.
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Form Finder -- Passport Forms. If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form. Keyword: Category: Name Actions
Mobile Passport Control (MPC)
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) allows eligible travelers to submit their travel document, photo, and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. The use of MPC streamlines the traveler's entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait ...
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Apply for a new adult passport
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