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How to Check the Status of Your Passport Application

Find out how long it will take to get a new passport.

You've booked your flight, booked your hotel, and now you're ready to jet off on your next international adventure . But before you do, you have to make sure your passport is still valid.

Some countries require your passport to be valid for six months after your intended visit, so it's important to make sure you renew before it expires. Renewing a passport can take up to 13 weeks (you can find current processing times on the State Department website ), and you need to make sure you have a good photo .

If you're waiting on your new passport , there are a few ways to check the status of your application. To check your passport status, you will need your last name, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Check Your Passport Status Online

If you applied for your passport in person or by mail, you can check the status of your passport application on the State Department's website — status updates are typically available 14 days after you apply or renew your passport. Your application status will be listed as "Not Found," "In Process," "Approved," or "Mailed." There, you can also sign up for automatic email updates by entering your email address. If you applied online, you can check your status on your MyTravelGov account.

Check Your Passport Status by Phone

You can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY) to check on your status. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Eastern Time, excluding federal holidays. You can use the automated system to check your passport information 24 hours a day.

What to Do If You Have Not Received Your Passport

If your passport has been issued, but you have not received it after at least 10 business days, you should call the National Passport Information Center and fill out a DS-86 form . You must report the fact that you have not received the passport within 90 days from the date it was issued, or you will have to reapply and pay the processing fees again.

What to Do If You Just Can’t Wait

Passport processing times can be over 13 weeks, but if you just can't wait, you can pay an extra fee to expedite the application and have it processed in five to seven weeks.

If you have an emergency , like a serious illness, injury, or death in your immediate family for which you need to travel outside the U.S. within three days, you can make an appointment for the emergency passport service by calling 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TTY/TDD) Monday through Friday (except for federal holidays) from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Time. For help outside those times, call 202-647-4000.

What to Do If You Applied Outside the U.S.

If you are residing abroad or traveling long-term you can apply for a new passport with the nearest embassy or consulate . However, the application process varies by country and you will either have to apply in person or by mail. Often, consulates will have specific instructions about what mail service provider to use. If you've already applied, you will need to contact the consulate or embassy directly about the status of your application.

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How to Check the Status of a Passport Application

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To a frequent traveler, a passport is like a magical key that opens doors to other cultures and far-off destinations. Unfortunately, living out bucket-list dreams in other countries isn’t possible without one.

Applying for a new passport or renewing one can take longer than you might expect — which could cause stress to those who can’t wait to jet off somewhere new. Fortunately, it’s possible to track your passport application status while it’s processing, allowing you to keep an eye on its progress.

Here’s how to check your passport status and what to do if it hasn’t arrived before your trip.

How to check passport application status

Whether you applied in person or renewed a passport by mail, you can check the status of your passport by subscribing to email updates through the U.S. Department of State. Because your application is sent to an intake facility for payment processing before it’s forwarded to a passport center, it may take up to two weeks for the passport renewal status to be updated.

There are two main ways to check your passport's status: Online or by phone. Email can only be used to cancel an appointment at a passport agency or center.

This method will likely be the fastest and easiest for most individuals. To check the status of a passport online, you’ll need to provide the following:

Date of birth.

The last four digits of your Social Security Number.

It's worth noting that passport tracking isn't available if you've applied for a special issuance passport. The following types of passports are considered special issuance passports:

Diplomatic passports.

Official passports.

Service passports.

No-fee regular passports.

Regular fee passports issued by the Special Issuance Agency.

You can also check your passport's status over the phone by calling 877-487-2778. Customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday. The call center is closed on federal holidays.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing may use the teletype line at 888-874-7793.

It’s not possible to check your passport status by email; however, if you need to cancel an appointment at a passport agency or center, you can do so by emailing [email protected] .

» Learn more: Why you need a passport six months before your trip

What do U.S. passport status updates mean?

Once you locate your pending application, you can enroll in U.S. passport tracking updates by entering your email address. If you see one of the following status updates, here’s what it means.

Not available: This status update means your passport hasn’t arrived at a passport center yet. It can take as long as two weeks for arrival. This update also can appear in case of a technical issue with the website.

In process: Your passport application has reached a passport center and is being reviewed.

Approved: Your application has been reviewed, and your new passport book is being printed.

Passport mailed: Your passport is in the mail to the address you provided on your application. To get the tracking number, enter your information on the U.S. passport application status page .

Supporting documents mailed: Your supporting documents, such as an old passport, a birth certificate or a naturalization certificate, have been mailed back to you. These documents are mailed separately from your passport book.

» Learn more: How to get your first passport

How long does passport processing take?

If weeks have passed since you mailed your passport application, you might wonder where your passport is.

At the time of writing, the U.S. Department of State estimates it will take 10 to 13 weeks for routine passport service and seven to nine weeks for expedited service. Mailing time isn't included in the estimate, so you’ll have to add that to the total time it takes to receive a passport.

If you receive a letter or an email requesting additional documents, your processing time might be increased. To speed it up, reply as soon as possible.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport to book an international flight?

If you haven’t received your passport

If your passport is marked as “mailed” in the system and you don't receive it within 14 days, contact the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778. You’ll then need to fill out a DS-86 form stating that you haven’t received your travel document. Make sure to fill out the form within 90 days of the passport issue date or you’ll have to reapply for a new passport and pay the fee again.

Note that if the passport arrives after you report it missing, it’ll be canceled and you won’t be able to use it for travel.

If your passport hasn’t arrived within the time frame specified on the Department of State website and you have upcoming travel within 14 calendar days, you should call the National Passport Information Center, which will then contact the processing passport agency on your behalf.

Depending on your travel date, you might need to make an appointment at a passport center and request urgent travel passport service.

» Learn more: How to get a passport in one day

How to track your passport status, recapped

You can track your passport status online or by phone. It may take 10 to 13 weeks for your passport to be processed, or seven to nine weeks if you requested expedited processing.

If you haven’t received your passport and it’s been more than two weeks after it was mailed, contact the National Passport Information Center. If your travel date is coming up soon, you might need to visit a passport center in person to apply for a new document.

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National Passport Information Center (NPIC)

Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) for information on U.S. passports. Check the status of a pending application. Find the locations of more than 4,500 passport acceptance facilities. And learn how to get a passport in an emergency.

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How to check the status of your passport for applications and renewals

“Where’s my passport?” It’s a question many people ask as they endure the long passport application process. The bad news: Passport applications and renewals take weeks, if not months. The good news: Tracking your passport status is easy. Here’s how to check the status of your passport in just a few simple steps.

In this post

How do I check on my passport status?

What do i do if my status is not available, first passport or renewal: is the processing time different, how long will my passport status be “in process”, how to proceed in case of emergency, where can you travel while waiting for your new passport.

It’s exceptionally easy to perform a passport status check, which is the same for new applications and renewals. All you have to do is go online or call the National Passport Information Center. There are five possible statuses: in process, approved, passport mailed, supporting documents mailed or not available. Here, you can also subscribe to email updates about your passport status.

3 steps to check online where your passport is

• Visit passportstatus.state.gov .
• Enter your last name, date of birth and last four digits of your social security number.
• See your passport’s current status.

Check your passport status by phone

You can also call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY). The opening hours are as follows: 

• Mondays through Fridays 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. Eastern Time
• Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Eastern Time.
• Closed on federal holidays.

Expert Tip : You can check your passport status online 24/7, and the process is often faster.

Your passport status may be listed as “not available” for three reasons:

• Your passport is still in transit to the passport agency. This may take up to two weeks, plus additional time for processing payment.
• The system is experiencing technical issues. Try checking your status again in a few hours.
• You’ve mistyped your name when you searched for your passport status. If your name has a hyphen, try typing your name with and without it on the passport status tracker website. Also, be sure to add any suffixes to your last name.

No. New applications for passports and passport renewals take the same amount of time to process. The steps for tracking your passport status in either case are the same.

The short answer: about a month to three months. But it depends on which type of processing you’ve selected.

The usual processing times

• Routine: 7 to 10 weeks
• Expedited: 3 to 5 weeks

Expert Tip : Processing times do not include shipping time, which can add up to 4 weeks to the timeline from application submission to receipt. You can, however, pay for expedited shipping.

What does “in process” mean for a passport?

“In process” means that your passport application or renewal has been received by the processing center and is undergoing review. This is typically the longest part of the process, as indicated by the processing times above.

If you must travel abroad after submitting your passport application or renewal, you must call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY). If you are traveling in more than 14 days, you can upgrade routine service to expedited service for a fee. If you are traveling in less than 14 days, you may be able to make an in-person appointment to receive your passport immediately, but availability for these appointments is limited.

While you’re waiting for your passport to process, you can travel anywhere within the U.S ., including Alaska and Hawaii. You can also travel to U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico , the U.S. Virgin Islands , Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands.

Bottom line

Checking your passport status is easy to do online. Just keep in mind that the “in process” status might take several weeks or months. If you need to expedite your passport application or renewal after you’ve submitted it, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY).

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

I’m a travel writer, so having a valid passport is essential for my job. As such, I’m well-versed in the logistics of applying for and renewing passports. For this guide, I deeply researched the most up-to-date information, on the different government websites related to the topic, about checking your passport status.

The foregoing article was last updated on the 14th of November 2023. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information. Sources: https://passportstatus.state.gov/ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/status.html https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/contact-us/passports.html

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Easy ways to check your passport application status

With Fourth of July travel behind us, we're looking ahead to the rest of summer and beyond.

If you are heading abroad during the remainder of this summer or in the fall, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to renew their U.S. passport a minimum of six months in advance.

As of July, current passport processing times are the same as they were in March — 10 to 13 weeks for routine service and seven to nine for expedited, not including processing and mailing times.

If you've already applied, we encourage as much patience as possible, but you can always check the status of your passport online for updates.

How to check your passport application status online

Once you apply for your passport, it'll take seven to 10 business days for your application to be trackable online via the online passport status system .

From there, enter your last name, date of birth, Social Security number and security code.

Before that time frame, the only updates you will see are either "Not Found," which means it is in transit to a passport agency, or "In Process," which means it is with the U.S. State Department and will be reviewed by staff.

Additionally, you can provide your email address to receive automatic email updates on your passport status.

How to check your passport application status via phone

An alternative to the online tool, you can also inquire about your passport status via phone by calling the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778 (or 888-874-7793 if you're hard of hearing).

Phone hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. EDT and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EDT on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays.

Current processing times

As mentioned, both new applicants and those renewing can expect to receive their passports within 10 to 13 weeks for routine service, costing $130. For more immediate travel, the U.S. Department of State provides the option for expedited service within seven to nine weeks for an additional $60.

Note those time frames do not include mailing times, so be sure to factor in an additional two weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center and up to two weeks for an applicant to receive a completed passport in the mail.

Bottom line

In addition to processing times, remember that many countries, including most of Europe, require your passport to be valid for at least six months at the time of entry, so factor that into when you plan to submit your passport application.

As of July, online passport renewal is currently unavailable , though the U.S. Department of State expects to roll that out later this year.

Related reading:

• Now up to 13 weeks: Why you should renew your passport for summer travel now
• Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?
• Guide to taking your passport photo at home
• This trick could help you bypass long waits for passport renewals
• 5 things I learned when renewing my passport for the 1st time

Additional reporting by Mimi Wright and Samantha Rosen.

Tracking Your Passport Status Updates: A Step-By-Step Guide

• Sheldon Soper

You can’t travel abroad without a valid passport. Once you apply, the waiting game begins. You’re left checking your mailbox wondering if your passport will arrive in time for your upcoming international adventure or that critical business trip. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Being able to locate and understand your passport application status is crucial in planning your journey with confidence and keeping your travel plans on track. What’s more, it’s easy.

This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify the process of checking your passport application status, ensuring you’re well-informed and prepared. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or applying for your first passport, this guide will give you the information you need to figure out where your new passport is and when you can expect it to arrive.

Overview of the Passport Application Process

Applying for a passport feels like a journey in itself. It requires patience and an understanding of the process. Here’s what you need to know:

• Application Submission: The journey begins with submitting your passport application. This can be done in person at a passport acceptance facility (if you are applying for a new passport) or by mail (if you are renewing a passport). Ensure your application is complete and accompanied by the necessary documents to avoid delays.
• Processing Timeframes: The processing time for a passport application can range from weeks to months. Currently, the process takes from 7 to 10 weeks for routine service and 3 to 5 weeks for expedited service. These timeframes can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
• Application Status Check: About 7-10 days after submitting your application, you can start checking its status. This is where our guide comes into play, offering you step-by-step instructions on how to track your application’s progress.
• Receipt of Your Passport: Once processed, you’ll receive your passport via mail. If you’ve opted for expedited service, you may also receive it through expedited shipping, depending on the delivery service you selected.
• Post-Application: After receiving your passport, it’s important to check all the details for accuracy. Any discrepancies should be reported immediately.

For complete, step-by-step help with the passport application process, be sure to check out our guides to passport renewals and getting a new passport .

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the specifics of how to check your passport application status, what different status updates mean, and what steps to take if you encounter issues. As always, our goal is to provide you with a clear, step-by-step guide, ensuring you’re equipped with all the information you need for a smooth and stress-free passport application experience.

Detailed Guide to Checking Passport Status

Checking your passport application status can be straightforward if you know where to look and what steps to follow. This section provides a detailed, user-friendly guide to help you track your passport application’s progress.

1. Checking Your Passport Status Online

The most convenient way to check your passport status is online. Here’s how you can do it:

• Step 1 – Visit the Official Website: Go to the U.S. Department of State’s passport status website .
• Step 2 – Enter Your Information: You will need to provide your last name (including suffixes), date of birth (in the format MM/DD/YYYY), and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
• Step 3 – View Your Status: After entering your details, your current passport status will be displayed. The status may be ‘ Not Found ‘, ‘ In Process ‘, ‘ Approved ‘, or ‘ Mailed ‘.
• Pro Tip: For added convenience, sign up for automatic email updates on the status of your application. You will get notified electronically any time the status of your application changes.

2. Checking Your Passport Status by Phone

If you prefer to check your status by phone or need additional assistance, here’s what you can do:

• Step 1 – Call the National Passport Information Center: Dial 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY). The center operates Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, excluding federal holidays.
• Step 2 – Prepare Your Information: Have your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number ready.
• Step 3 – Follow the Prompts: An automated system will guide you through the process. If needed, you can also speak to a customer service representative for more detailed inquiries.

3. Checking Your Status Through a Passport Expediter

If you need a passport as fast as possible , a passport expediting service can help. Not only can these professional courier services speed up your wait for a travel document, but they can also help with the application process—including providing regular status updates.

If you expedite your passport application with an expediter’s help, the expediter becomes your point of contact for checking up on your application’s status. You should be provided with both contact information and a reference number or code by your expeditor to make this process as simple as possible. Be sure to keep these details somewhere safe so you have them when you need them.

For more, consult our Ultimate U.S. Traveler’s Guide to Passport Expediters . This guide, based on over 20 years of helping readers like you get their passports quickly and easily, will help you understand what professional passport expediters do, how to find a reputable service, and more of our advice and recommendations about how they can help you get your travel documents fast.

 Understanding Your Passport Application Status

There are 4 common status updates you can get from the U.S. Department of State:

• Not Found: This status typically appears if it’s been less than 7-10 days since you submitted your application or if there was an error in the information you provided. If you just submitted your application, be patient. You should get an update soon.
• In Process: Your application was received and is being reviewed. This is the most common status and can last until the final processing stages. Know that you will not be able to get any additional clarity about how the process is going beyond this. Calling or submitting additional status requests won’t provide any additional information while the application is being processed.
• Approved: Your application has been processed successfully, and your passport is being prepared for mailing.
• Mailed: Your passport has been dispatched to the address you provided. This status usually includes a tracking number for your convenience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

There are several types of problems passport applicants may encounter along the way. Here are several of the common problems and their practical solutions.

1. Delayed Application Status

• Scenario: Your passport application status hasn’t been updated for an extended period.
• Solution: Verify the information you provided. If correct, contact the National Passport Information Center for assistance. Keep your application number handy for reference. Know that you will likely receive the “In Process” status for the majority of the time you are waiting for your new passport to be issued.

2. Incorrect Information on Passport

• Scenario: You receive a passport with errors in your personal details.
• Solution: Report any discrepancies immediately to the U.S. Department of State. From there, you will need to follow these steps to correct passport errors . You can avoid having to pay additional fees for a corrected passport if you report the issue(s) promptly.

3. Lost or Stolen Passport

• Scenario: Your passport is reported as mailed, but your passport has not been received. You suspect it is lost or stolen.
• Solution: Even if you have not received your new passport, if it was issued and mailed, it’s a valid passport. So, if it is missing, you need to treat it as if it was lost or stolen in transit. Contact the National Passport Information Center immediately. You may need to complete Form DS-64 to report the lost or stolen passport. Then, follow these step-by-step guides to both replace your lost passport and protect yourself from passport-related identity theft .

Navigating the passport application process and understanding how to check your passport status is straightforward if you know what to do and what information you can expect to receive.

Remember, the key to a stress-free passport application process is preparation and staying informed. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared for your next international adventure or important trip.

Be sure to keep up with all the latest news and advice about passports, visas, and international travel. Subscribe to our blog for all the latest updates. We will keep this article updated to reflect any changes in the passport status tracking process.

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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How to Check Your Passport Status—and What to Do if It’s Taking Too Long

Passport wait times are still long, but you don’t have to wait in the dark. here are a few things you can do to check your passport application or renewal status..

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You sent in your passport application. Now what?

Photo by Charles Taylor/Shutterstock

The clock is ticking. International flights and hotels are booked, but still no sign of your new passport? We know the frustration. Current delays can stretch as long as two to three months due to an application backlog. Even with expedited processing (and an additional $60 fee), the wait can extend to two months, and the timeframe doesn’t technically begin until the agency receives your application.

So what’s an eager traveler to do? It turns out, there are a few ways you can ease the stress by checking your passport status.

It’s wise to keep an eye on your passport expiration date since countries have different requirements. Many European nations stipulate at least three months’ validity beyond the period of intended stay; others have a six-month minimum. Some countries require at least one full, blank page, too. It’s confusing, but a little advance planning can help. Here’s how to monitor the application once you submit it.

Check your passport status online

The State Department’s online system updates your application status 14 days after receipt of your documents (until then, it will say “not found”). Don’t expect a detailed report, however, as the verbiage you’ll likely see includes: “in process,” “approved,” or “mailed.” Obsessive checking won’t get you very far, but luckily on the same website, you can enroll in an automatic alert system for updates when the status changes.

Verify the status by phone

You can phone the National Passport Information Center (877-487-2778) to speak to a real person (or an automated response outside of business hours), but it will still be the same ambiguous answers of “in process” or hopefully “mailed.”

Check the status by using a third party to apply

If you use an expeditor company like Rush My Passport or CIBT Visa, it can provide additional details on where your passport is in the process. These agencies use a courier who physically hands over the documentation, adding a bit more clarity to the process. Expeditors can get a passport back to you in a few business days (this varies by agency), but expect to pay upwards of $600 for the privilege.

If you have an emergency situation

If you applied but haven’t received your passport and your travel is coming up soon , you may be able to get help.

If your travel is within the next two weeks , call the National Passport Information Center (877-487-2778) during business hours (Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The call center will notify the processing agency of your upcoming travel dates and put in a request to expedite it.

If your travel is within the next five days , call the same line to let them know—they may be able to give you an in-person appointment to finish up the passport process (although there are no guarantees, and you may have to travel to another city for the appointment).

If you have proof of a last-minute family emergency that requires travel within three business days (for example, a recent death or a severe illness that may lead to death of an immediate family member), call the same number to request a “life-or-death emergency service” appointment (different from the “urgent travel service” appointment). If you qualify and have proof of the urgency and upcoming travel, you may be able to secure one. If calling outside of traditional business hours or on a federal holiday, contact 202-647-4000. This number, reserved for emergencies only, should not be used during business hours. Your Congressperson can assist if you have a pressing emergency, too.

The moral of the story: Start early and allow plenty of time. While that’s not always possible, these tips can help you track your application status. Just be sure to pack some patience before you pack your suitcase.

U.S. Passport Application Status

Sorry, we couldn’t find that page. here are several suggestions to help find what you’re looking for:.

• Check our website's homepage, passportstatus.state.gov
• Travel.State.Gov
• U.S. Passports
• International Travel

Fill Out Online and Print

You can fill out the following forms:.

• Application for a U.S. Passport (DS-11)
• Renewal Application (DS-82)
• Data Corrections, Name Changes, and Limited-Validity Passports (DS-5504)

Report Lost or Stolen

• SUBMIT ONLINE : A lost or stolen report for an adult
• Print out and mail : A lost or stolen report for an adult
• Print out and mail : A lost or stolen report for a minor

Check Status

• Check the status of a recently submitted passport application

Add Visa Pages

• Add blank visa pages to frequently used passports
• Add blank visa pages when traveling to countries that require several blank pages

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Thousands of Post Offices ™ accept first-time passport applications for the U.S. Department of State. Most of those locations can also take your passport photo.

• Renewing Passports : If you answer 'Yes' to all 5 eligibility questions in the " Renew a Passport by Mail " section, mail your renewal form directly to the State Department. If you don't meet all the renewal requirements, you'll need to go to a Post Office in person and do a new, first-time passport application.
• First-Time Passports (and Passport Photos) : Schedule your in-person appointment online.

Schedule an Appointment

Alert: --> online scheduler to make an appointment for passport services to ensure the safety of our employees and customers. The State Department has extremely limited passport services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Expect significant delays of several months before receiving your new U.S. passport. Learn More

Alert: Please use our online scheduler , a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk, or visit a Post Office retail counter to make an appointment for first-time passport and photo services. Alternatively, find a location near you with passport walk-in acceptance hours.

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
• $18.32—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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Apply for a U.S. Visa

• Bank and Payment Options
• Form DS-160 Information
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• Visa Waiver Program
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• Apply for a Visa
• Pay My Visa Fee
• Complete My DS-160
• Schedule My Appointment
• Track My Passport
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• Reschedule My Immigrant / Diversity Visa Appointment
• Check My Immigrant Visa Petition Status
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You are here: Home / Track My Passport

On this page:

Check Your Visa Application Status

Passport tracking options, locations and timings.

If your visa application is approved, your passport and visa can be collected from the pickup location you selected when you scheduled for interview appointment. When your passport is available at selected location you will receive an email that your passport is “Ready for Pick Up”.

Optional Premium Delivery Services: Effective May 1, 2024 the charges have been revised to NPR. 650- per passport/document, payable in cash only. Payment for this service may be made at the cash counters of Nepal Investment Mega Bank at these locations. This service is optional. Please refer to our  website  for additional details.

If you are a nonimmigrant applicant, you may check your DS-160 and visa application status online  here  by entering your interview location and your DS-160 barcode number.

For your convenience, you have several options to choose from to track the location of your passport.

Instant:  Enter your passport number below to check on the status. If your passport is not collected within 14 calendar days from selected location it will be sent back to the respective Embassy or Consulate. Passports returned to the Embassy can be collected between 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on all working days except Thursdays from the U.S. Embassy directly, without any appointment.

Note: Please ensure that you provide the correct email address and also check your mail box regularly for notification.

Email:  Send an email to  [email protected]  and in the subject and/or body enter a valid passport number exactly as it was entered at the time the appointment was scheduled. Do not include any additional text e.g. signature. You will receive an automatic response with the status.

Online:  You can track your passport online  here .

Telephone:  You can track your passport via our 24X7 IVR.

To view locations and timings, click  here .

Please check the Website  RedBanner  for the latest information on document delivery centers.

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How to check the status of your passport application

 service standards.

See how long it may take us to process your application under normal circumstances.

Avoid waiting on the phone and get the status of your application online.

Answer the questions below to find out how you can check your application status.

Where did you apply?

How did you apply?

How long ago did you apply?

• 4 business days or less
• 5 business days or more
• 9 business days or less
• 10 business days or more
• 19 business days or less
• 20 business days or more

Applied in person: 4 business days ago or less

We suggest you wait to check your application status.

Your application may not be in our system yet, and the processing time is still within our service standards .

However, you can try using our online tool if you’d like.

Check the status of your application (opens in a new tab)  

If you need a passport within 10 business days, learn how to get urgent or express passport services   (opens in a new tab) .

Applied in person: 5 business days ago or more

To check your application status, you can use our online tool.

Our agents answer calls Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. your local time (9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Newfoundland and Labrador). They do not answer calls on statutory holidays .

Reach us at either of the numbers below.

Toll-free number: 1-800-567-6868

Direct number: 1-819-997-8338

Use our TTY service

If you’re hearing impaired or have a speech impediment, use our TTY service.

1-866-255-7655

Go to a passport office

Use walk-in service at a passport office to request the status of your application.

Find a passport office and check walk-in wait times .

Applied by mail in Canada or the US: 9 business days ago or less

Your application may not be in our system yet, and it is still within our service standards .

Applied outside Canada or the US: 19 business days ago or less

Wait to contact us. Your application is still within our service standards .

If you need urgent help while abroad,  request emergency assistance   (opens in a new tab) .

Applied outside Canada or the US: 20 business days ago or more

Contact the Government of Canada office where you applied.

Applied by mail in Canada or the US: 10 business days ago or more

If you need a passport within 10 business days, learn how to get urgent or express passport services (opens in a new tab)  

Office closures for statutory holidays

Passport offices and Service Canada Centres will be closed on these dates in 2024 :

• June 24 (Quebec only)
• August 5 (except Quebec)
• September 2
• September 30
• November 11
• December 25 and 26

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3 travel apps you need before your next flight to keep you out of long TSA lines

Travel can be stressful, especially when airports are involved. 

Flights get delayed, or, worse still, canceled.  

Ever-growing security lines sometimes snake through the airport, putting you in jeopardy of missing your flight.

Last-minute changes can happen and derail months of planning, potentially starting off your trip on a bad note.

Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can help travelers, but there are also ways that tech can help you prepare for your journey and stay aware of the curveballs that might come your way.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are three apps to download before your next trip. 

Watch the video above to learn which three apps you need before your next trip. 

Airline app 

Download your airline’s app! 

It keeps all of your travel information in one, easy-to-access place. 

Turn on notifications to get immediate alerts when it's time to check in so you'll know if there are any delays or gate changes. 

Once you have a boarding pass, save even more time by adding it to the digital wallet on your smartphone.

The lines at airport security can be very unpredictable. Sometimes there is no wait, other times, the line extends into the check-in area. 

The Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) app, MyTSA, tries to make the wait a little more predictable and helps you determine what to expect, especially if you’re traveling from one of the busiest airports in the US.  

The app provides a real-time look at your selected airport's wait time, any FAA delays, and which TSA PreCheck lanes are open. 

The app also uses historical data to help you plan ahead. So, even if your flight is three days away, the app can show you what you’re likely to encounter that day based on previous experiences. 

It’s also a useful resource if you’re unsure about what you can or can’t pack in your carry-on and checked luggage.

Mobile Passport Control

If you’re traveling abroad, the Mobile Passport Control app makes your return through U.S. customs much faster. 

The app is a digital version of the Customs and Border Patrol Declaration Form that anyone entering the U.S. is required to fill out.  

You can save up to 12 profiles in the app, and only one form is needed per family, per residence. 

The app doesn't work at every airport, so check  the CBP website to see where you can use it. 

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Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.   

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of tech experts test everything from Apple AirPods and screen protectors to iPhone tripods and car mounts so you can shop for the best of the best. 

• The best rugged iPhone case: Spigen Slim Armor  
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Is Fast Track Passport Renewal Necessary? - Air Travel Forum

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Is Fast Track Passport Renewal Necessary?

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Really need some advice here. I have a UK passport. I'm looking to next travel possibly end of May, most likely June. I will need to renew my passport for this trip. I have heard standard renewal times ranging from three week to ten weeks! Following the some times people have post, some people have waited only two weeks for it to be returned. The fast track service costs twice as much, so I'm reluctant to pay it.

Anyone here with a UK passport and had recent experience renewing it? Is two-three weeks realistic or super optimistic?

Any help would be appreciated! Thx

16 replies to this topic

You can see what others have reported on this website…

https://www.passportwaitingtime.co.uk/category/passport-application-experiences/

You have to scroll down a bit and click on each day and you can see what other folks have reported for submission and received dates etc.

If your plans are not in concrete or urgent then save some money. I had an issue recently where I could not be without my UK passport and with a letter from my employer applied for an overlapping passport ie keep my old one until new one was delivered. I cannot recall the exact time frame but it was delivered within 10 working days I seem to recall.

https://www.passportwaitingtime.co.uk/latest-uk-passport-waiting-times/

From this crowd sourced site (which is normally reasonably accurate) a standard renewal is taking a gnats cock under a fortnight.

Renewals seem to be relatively quick if done on line

What will you do if everyone tells you not to bother with the fast track service and then your passport doesn't arrive on time?

Depends on your attitude to risk really, mine took less than two weeks but I wouldn't risk it and renewed in plenty of time.

i think the huge post-covid backlog is now over

The most common delay for online applications is the photo quality.

If you have access to a high street camera shop that does digital passport photos and provides a code to add to your application, it should take 2 weeks maximum.

I applied for my son’s passport last month and it took less than two weeks to come. This was a renewal application done online. But it will start getting busy now so better to apply sooner than later. We don’t fly until Aug

We did my husband’s renewal a couple of weeks ago. It was super quick - took literally 3 working DAYS!

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Do you need a passport to go to Canada?

T raveling to Canada from the United States is relatively straightforward, but the documentation required can vary depending on your mode of transportation and citizenship status. While a passport is the most widely accepted form of identification for international travel, alternative options are available for U.S. citizens entering Canada by land or sea.

What you need to know about traveling to Canada

So, what exactly do you need to cross into Canada? It really depends on how you’re getting there.

What documents do I need to cross the Canadian border by car?

If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling to Canada by land or sea, you have a few options for acceptable documentation:

• Passport: A valid U.S. passport is the most widely recognized and accepted form of identification for international travel, including entry into Canada. It’s also the only document accepted for air travel to Canada.
• Passport card: This wallet-sized card can be used to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports of entry. It cannot be used for air travel.
• Enhanced driver’s license (EDL): Several U.S. states, including Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Washington, issue enhanced driver’s licenses that are designed to meet the document requirements for land and sea travel into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. EDLs are not valid for air travel.
• Trusted traveler program card: U.S. citizens enrolled in trusted traveler programs like NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST can use their program card to expedite entry into Canada at designated land border crossings.

What do you need to enter Canada from the U.S.?

To enter Canada from the United States, you need to present one of the following acceptable documents:

• Valid U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card (land and sea travel only)
• Enhanced driver’s license issued by an approved state (land and sea travel only)
• Trusted traveler program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST) (land travel only)

Can I travel to Canada with my U.S. birth certificate?

No, a U.S. birth certificate alone is not sufficient for entry into Canada. Although it serves as proof of citizenship, it does not include the necessary identification information required for international travel. A birth certificate must be accompanied by additional approved documentation, such as a government-issued photo ID.

Can you get into Canada with an enhanced license?

Yes, an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) issued by an approved U.S. state is a valid document for entry into Canada by land or sea. However, an EDL cannot be used for air travel to Canada or any other international destination. For air travel, a valid passport is required.

EDLs are currently issued by the states of Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Washington, specifically to facilitate land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean destinations. These licenses incorporate additional security features and are approved by the Department of Homeland Security and the Canadian government for border-crossing purposes.

Before traveling, it’s always a good idea to check the latest entry requirements and regulations with the Canadian government, as these can change over time. 

Bottom line

While a passport is the most widely accepted and recommended form of identification for travel to Canada, U.S. citizens have several alternatives for land and sea travel, including passport cards, enhanced driver’s licenses, and trusted traveler program cards. Regardless of the documentation used, all travelers need to meet Canada’s admissibility requirements and should familiarize themselves with the latest entry regulations before going on their trip.

The post Do you need a passport to go to Canada? appeared first on The Manual .