Emergency Passport Info
Need an Emergency US Passport? Here's Exactly What to Do.
If you have international travel within 14 days, you qualify for an expedited passport appointment at a US Passport Agency. This guide covers every step — from booking your appointment to walking out with your passport.
The 14-Day Rule
The US State Department's Passport Agencies accept emergency appointments for travelers with international travel within 14 calendar days (or 28 days if a foreign visa is required). Standard passport processing takes 6–8 weeks. If your trip is sooner, you must book a direct agency appointment.
Call the National Passport Information Center: 1-877-487-2778
Find a Passport Agency Near You
There are 26 regional passport agencies and 2 passport centers across the US. Select your state to find the nearest official location with hours, address, and booking information.
Urgent Travel Service: Within 14 Days
Once you have an agency appointment, processing typically takes 24 to 72 hours on-site. You will receive your passport the same day in most cases. Here is what you need to have ready:
- Completed DS-11 or DS-82 application form
- Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or previous US passport)
- Valid government photo ID
- 2×2 inch passport photo (taken within 6 months)
- Proof of imminent travel (airline booking confirmation)
- Application fees: $130 application fee + $35 execution fee, plus $60 expedited service and $19.53 1–2 day return delivery if chosen (verify current fees at travel.state.gov)
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Book your appointment — call 1-877-487-2778 or visit passportappointment.state.gov
- Complete the correct form — DS-11 for new applicants, DS-82 for renewals
- Gather your documents — birth certificate, ID, photos, travel proof
- Appear in person — do not mail expedited applications; you must attend the appointment
- Pay the fees — pay by check or money order at the agency
- Receive your passport — typically same day or next business day
Essential Passport Guides
The 14-Day Appointment Process
Step-by-step walkthrough of booking and attending an emergency passport agency appointment.
Complete Document Checklist
Every document required for emergency passport applications, organized by applicant type.
Passport Lost Abroad
Immediate steps to take when your passport is lost or stolen while traveling internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about emergency passport processing, fees, and timelines.
Can't Get a Government Appointment? Use a Registered Private Expeditor
Passport agency appointments are booked weeks out during the 2026 travel surge. If your trip is in 14 days or less and you cannot secure an agency appointment, State Department-registered private couriers can hand-deliver your application for 24–72 hour turnaround. These are legitimate businesses registered with the State Department — not "black market" fixers.
Typical cost: $150–$600 on top of government fees. Turnaround: 24–72 hours. Works in all 50 states.
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Protect Your Trip — Emergency Travel Insurance
If your emergency passport might not arrive in time, a trip cancellation and interruption plan covers non-refundable flights, hotels, and cruise bookings. Most travelers add this coverage the same day they apply for an emergency passport.
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Emergency Passport Info is free and ad-supported. Everything official is at travel.state.gov — if this site helped you get organized faster, an optional tip keeps it running. (We no longer sell any guide.)
Travel Document Essentials
Passport Photo Kits
Compliant 2×2 inch photo paper and printing guides for same-day passport photos at home.
Check Price on AmazonRFID Passport Wallets
Protect your emergency passport from electronic theft with RFID-blocking travel wallets.
Check Price on AmazonDocument Organizers
Keep all required passport application documents organized and ready for your agency appointment.
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