Expedited passport services reduce the processing time for receiving a new or renewed passport. Processing time for routine passport service takes four to six weeks, while expedited service takes two to three weeks.
The additional fees for expediting a passport include a $60 expedite fee and an optional $21.36 fee for one-to-two-day return shipping. In this guide, we will break down the processing time and costs for expedited service.
Learn how you can get your passport in 2 weeks or less.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at:
How Can I Apply for an Expedited Passport?
To apply for an expedited passport, follow these steps:
- Complete the Form:
Fill out Form DS-11 for first-time applicants or children under 16, or Form DS-82 for renewals. Provide all required supporting documents, such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate and proof of citizenship. For a detailed walkthrough on how to fill out these forms, refer to U.S. Passport Application Process: Easy Step-by-Step Guide. - Submit the Application:
Submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, such as select post offices, clerk’s offices, or at a passport agency. When you’re applying on behalf of a child, ensure that both parents’ names and proof of relationship are included. - Pay the Required Fees:
The expedite fee of $60 is in addition to the application fee and the execution fee. - Request Expedited Service:
Indicate your need for expedited processing on your application and ensure all fees are paid separately when necessary.
How Much Do Expedited Passport Services Cost?
The cost of expedited passport services is $60 in addition to the standard passport fees. There is an optional $21.36 fee for one-to-two-day shipping and a $150 file search fee if you do not have proof of citizenship
In total, an expedited passport for an adult with one-to-two-day shipping costs $246.36 for a first-time passport and $211.36 when renewed by mail. For minors under 16 years old, the total fee for an expedited passport with one-to-two-day shipping is $216.36.
When you need an urgent or emergency passport for travel within 14 days, the fees remain the same when applying at a passport agency.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees involved:
Standard Passport Fees
| Applicant Type | Passport Book Fee | Passport Card Fee | Combined Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (First-time) | $130 + $35 execution fee | $30 + $35 execution fee | $160 + $35 execution fee |
| Adults (Renewal) | $130 | $30 | $160 |
| Minors (Under 16) | $100 + $35 execution fee | $15 + $35 execution fee | $115 + $35 execution fee |
Optional Passport Service Costs
| Service Type | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Expedited Processing | $60 | Reduces processing time to 2–3 weeks. |
| 1–2 Day Delivery | $21.36 | Ensures fast delivery of the issued passport. |
| File Search Fee | $150 | Required when no proof of U.S. citizenship is available. |
Key Payment Information
- Application Fee: Paid to the U.S. Department of State by check or money order.
- Execution Fee: Paid to the passport acceptance facility (post offices or clerk’s offices). Payment methods may include debit cards, credit cards, or cash, depending on the facility.
- Renewals: When renewing by mail or online, only the application fee applies.
What Is the Processing Time for an Expedited Passport?
The processing time for an expedited passport is typically two to three weeks, excluding mailing times.
- By Mail:
Include your recent passport or required citizenship documents with your application. Use Priority Mail Express for faster delivery to and from the processing center. - Urgent Travel:
When you have an immediate family member experiencing a life-threatening illness or death, you may qualify for emergency processing at a passport agency. You’ll need to provide proof, such as a certified medical statement or death certificate and visit one of 26 passport agency offices in person. - Online Renewal:
Expedited services are not available for online renewals except in the case of an urgent change in travel plans after a renewal application was submitted. Learn more about renewing a U.S. Passport online.
To change your application to expedited after submission, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Evaluating Delivery Options for Expedited Passports
Delivery times are not included in the two to three week processing time estimate. These are the available delivery options:
- Standard Delivery: Uses USPS Priority Mail, included with your application fee.
- The U.S. Department of State states it can take up to two weeks to arrive.
- 1-2 Day Delivery: Available for an additional fee of $21.36, this 1-2 Day Delivery option ensures that once processed, your passport will arrive in 1-2 days.
It is possible to receive your expedited passport in under three weeks.
To keep informed about the status of your passport application, you can enroll in email updates. Here’s how you can check your status:
- Access the Online Passport Status System: Visit this link and enter your last name (including suffixes and hyphens as applicable), date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
What Does My Passport Application Status Mean?
| Application Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Not Available | Your application is in transit to a passport agency or experiencing a delay. **In the case that your status remains “Not Available” for more than two weeks, check again later or try re-entering your details. |
| In Process | Your application is under review at a passport agency. The duration depends on the selected service. |
| Approved | Your application has been approved, and your passport is being printed. |
| Passport Mailed | Your passport has been mailed to you with a tracking number provided for a passport book. |
| Supporting Documents Mailed | Your supporting documents, such as birth certificates, have been sent back to you via First Class Mail. |
Special Circumstances for Expedited Passports
- Emergency Travel:
Emergency passports are available for a life-or-death emergency. These situations require proof of urgency and documentation like travel itineraries and medical or death certificates. Learn more about how to get an emergency passport. - Damaged or Lost Passports:
When your passport is lost or stolen, apply early for a replacement. Submit Form DS-64 along with your application and supporting documents. Read our guide on what to do when your passport is lost or stolen while abroad. - First-Time Applicants:
First-time passport applicants must appear in person and provide certified copies of their documents. - Federal Holidays:
Keep in mind that processing times and appointments may be delayed due to federal holidays. Plan accordingly.
»Additional Resources:
U.S. Territories You Can Visit Without A Passport
Current Travel Restrictions For Americans
Breakdown of Passport Costs
Understanding Blank Visa Page Requirements
3-Month and 6-Month Passport Validity Rules