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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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How to Check the Status of Your Passport Application

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

Have you ordered a new passport and are wondering when you'll receive it? There are a few ways to check your passport application status — including online and by phone. To check your passport progress, you will need personal information including your last name, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. With this information in hand, you can easily find out the status of your passport application.

The entire passport issuing process can take up to two months or more, so allotting enough time for it to arrive is key to avoid a stressful wait. In addition to expediting passport renewal, there are options for emergency and urgent travel for those who must travel in three weeks or less.

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 Passport Status website . Updates are typically available 14 days after you apply or renew your passport.

Your application status will be listed as "Not Available," "In Process," "Approved," "Passport Mailed," or "Supporting Documents Mailed," which could include your passport, a birth certificate, or a naturalization certificate.

You can 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. or Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST, excluding federal holidays. You can also expedite your passport after applying for it over the phone.

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 two weeks, you should call the National Passport Information Center and fill out a DS-86 form , which is a signed statement that you did not receive the issued passport.

You must file the form to report the undelivered passport within 90 days from the date it was issued. Otherwise, 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 eight weeks because the processing time does not include the time it takes to mail the issued passport. But if you just can't wait, you can pay an extra fee to expedite the application and have it processed within two to three weeks. (Visit the State Department website to view the most current processing times.)

If you have a life-or-death emergency that requires international travel within two weeks, you can make an appointment for the emergency passport service . The same service is available to those with urgent travel occurring within three weeks.

You can book an appointment online or visit the State Department's Passport Agency Appointment website to find the closest agency and its specific website. Note that these centers are different from typical facilities that accept passport applications such as the post office.

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.

Related Articles

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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U.S. Passport Application Status

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

U.s. passports are back to their normal processing time of six to eight weeks. 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. The good news is, after nearly two years of delays, U.S. passport renewal is back on track. As of this writing, the longest time a passport can take is six to eight weeks for the regular service and two to three for expedited processing.

Still, when you’re daydreaming about afternoon tea and stand-up at Edinburgh Festival Fringe or hiking to a sacred lagoon in Peru , it’s hard to be patient. Here’s how to slightly ease the stress of waiting by checking your passport status and what to do when it’s taking too long.

Check your passport status online

To track your passport online, you’ll first need to wait up to 14 days for the State Department’s system to update your application status (until then, it will say “not available”). Don’t expect a detailed report, however, as the verbiage you’ll 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 this will not be the best use of your time. You’ll get the same ambiguous answers of “in process”—or hopefully “mailed”—and the call center representatives cannot change that.

Check the status by using a third party to apply

If you use an expeditor company like Rush My Passport or CIBTvisas, 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.

What does “in process” mean for passport renewal?

If you see “in process” on your application status, this means your application is in someone’s hands, being reviewed at a passport office.

How long will my passport status be in process?

How long your status remains “in process” depends on whether you chose regular or expedited processing. Keep in mind that passport processing times—six to eight weeks or two to three for expedited service—do not include mailing times.

What to do if your passport is taking too long

If you’ve 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 14 days , 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 complete 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 life-or-death family emergency that requires travel within three business days (e.g., a recent death or a severe illness that may lead to the 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.

This article was originally published in 2023 and most recently updated on June 17, 2024, with current information.

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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: For first-time passport and photo services, please make an appointment using our online scheduler , a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk , or at a Post Office retail counter . We also offer limited Passport walk-in hours at select locations.

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
• $21.36—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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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 of you’re application. You should pick up your passport within 14 calendar days from your selected location. If you do not pick up your passport, after some time it will be returned to the Embassy. You can only pick your passport after the Embassy contacts you with directions for how to pick it up. You must bring the email regarding collection of your passport sent by the Embassy.

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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Passport processing times are down again. Here's how long you'll wait.

If you need a new passport before your next trip, you’re in luck.

U.S. passport processing times dropped again this week, the State Department said. If your application is received Monday or later, you’ll wait between seven and 10 weeks for routine service, down from eight to 11 weeks. Expedited service – which comes with a $60 fee – will take between three and five weeks, dropping from five to seven weeks previously.

“As more Americans are traveling internationally again, we are directing resources to meet the unprecedented demand seen so far in 2023,” the State Department said in an update on its website .

Those estimates do not include mailing times.

“We are aggressively recruiting and hiring across our passport agencies and centers,” the update said. “Our passport team members nationwide contribute tens of thousands of hours of overtime a month to issue the millions of passports sought by traveling Americans.” The State Department also opened a satellite office to assist with processing.

Passport renewal can be a pain: What to know about applications, appointment wait times

The changes come just over a month after wait times last dropped . Over 24 million passport cards and books were issued between October 2022 and September 2023, marking a record.

How to get a passport?

The process for passport application varies depending on your situation.

According to the U.S. Department of State, you should  apply in person  if:

◾ You are applying for your first passport.

◾ You are applying for your child who is under 16.

◾ Your previous passport was issued when you were under 16.

◾ Your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.

◾ Your previous passport was issued over 15 years ago.

In these cases, you must fill out form DS-11 (found  online ) and print it to apply in person.

If none of the above apply, you may be able to get a new passport by mail. According to the State Department, you are eligible to  renew by mail  if:

◾ You have your most recent passport (and it is not damaged) and can submit it with your application.

◾ Your most recent passport was never reported lost or stolen.

◾ Your most recent passport was issued in the last 15 years.

◾ Your most recent passport was issued when you were 16 or older.

◾ Your most recent passport is issued to your current name, or you can present a document – such as a marriage certificate or divorce papers – as evidence of a legal name change.

◾ "It was not limited to less than the normal 10-year period of validity for an adult passport due to multiple passport thefts or losses, or due to issues with passport damage or mutilation."

In these cases, fill out form DS-82 (found  online ).

What documents do I need to apply for a passport?

The State Department says these are  the documents you need  if you're applying for a passport:

◾ Application form.

◾ Personal  documents including  but not limited to proof of citizenship, an acceptable photo ID, photocopies of both.

◾ Passport photo.

Contributing: Olivia Munson

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Beta Release of an Online Passport Renewal System

• Eligible U.S. citizens can now renew their passports online. We're conducting a beta release of an updated online passport renewal system.
• You may not be able to start your application on the day of your choice. The system will open for a limited midday eastern time window each day, and will close once we reach our limit for the day. 
• If you are unable to start your application, try again on another day. If you do not want to wait or do not qualify to renew online, you may also renew by mail now . 
• 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. This beta release during which we are limiting the daily applications is an important and standard part of the software development process.    
• We appreciate your patience while we test our system and prepare for a full launch of the updated online passport renewal system. 

Follow these steps to renew your passport online and track your status:

Confirm you meet the requirements

• Create your account 

Start your application

• Enter your most recent passport info

Enter travel plans

• Upload digital photo

Sign and pay

Enroll in email updates.

You can renew online if you meet all these requirements:

• The passport you are renewing is or was valid for 10 years, and you are age 25 or older. 
• The passport you are renewing was issued between 2009 and 2015, or over 9 years but less than 15 years from the date you plan to submit your application. 
• You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth.
• You are not traveling internationally for at least 8 weeks from the date you will submit your application. We will only offer routine service during this limited release, and the time it takes to get a passport will be the same as renewing by mail. 
• You are applying for a regular (tourist) passport. You cannot renew a special issuance (diplomatic, official, service) passport online.
• You live in the United States (either state or territory). You do not qualify to renew online if you live in a foreign country or have an Army Post Office (APO) or Fleet Post Office (FPO) address.
• You have your passport with you, and it is not damaged or mutilated, and you have not previously reported it as lost or stolen. Keep your most recent passport and do not mail it to us. 
• You can pay for your passport using a credit or debit card.
• You can upload a digital passport photo.
• You are aware that the passport you are renewing will be canceled after you submit your application and you cannot use it for international travel.

If you do not qualify to renew online, you may be able to renew by mail or in person at a passport agency or center .

Create your account

Click the Sign In button on the MyTravelGov homepage. Clicking the button will take you to Login.gov where you can sign in as an existing customer or create a new account.   

Watch a video  explaining how to create an account.

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the process of creating an account.  

After creating your account, click on the "Renew Your Passport" button on the home page to start your application.  

During the next several months, we are limiting the number of daily applications. The system will open for a limited midday eastern time window each day, and will close once we reach our limit for the day.  If we have reached the daily limit, you will need to wait to start your application.  

You can save your application and finish it at a later date. You have 30 days to complete your application after you start it. If you do not complete your application in 30 days, you will need to start over. 

Enter info about your most recent passport

At this stage of the application, we check the passport(s) you are renewing against our records to see if you can renew online. 

• Enter your information as it was printed on the passport you are renewing. 
• Try again if you believe you should be eligible to renew online. We may be experiencing temporary, technical issues with our system.
• If you are not eligible to renew online, the application will give you a list of reasons. Double check your information before re-entering it.

Validity of Most Recent Passport : Make sure your most recent passport was valid for 10 years. The passport must be expiring within one year or have been expired less than five years.  

Your Name : Double check the spelling, capitalization, hyphens, and spacing between letters in your name and compare them to your most recent passport. 

• If last name is spelled "McDonald" but printed as "Mc Donald," (with a space), make sure you enter your name as "Mc Donald"(with the space included) on the application. 
• If your last name is spelled “Smith-Jenkins“ (with a hyphen) and printed in your most recent passport with the hyphen, try entering your name as “Smith Jenkins” (without a hyphen) or "SmithJenkins" (with no space). We will add the hyphen to your name when we review your application. 

Passport Book, Passport Card, or Both Documents : You can renew passport books and passport cards online. If you want to renew a passport book but not a passport card, leave the card section blank on the application. If you want to renew a passport card but not a passport book, leave the book section blank.

The following chart explains what documents you can renew online:

Watch this video to learn how to enter info about your passport

If you are traveling internationally in less than 8 weeks, you cannot renew online because we are only offering routine service .

• Routine times do not include mailing times.
• Routine times are the same for customers who renew online and renew by mail. 

Need your passport in 3-8 weeks? Get expedited service and renew by mail .

Need your passport in less than 3 weeks? Make an appointment to renew in person at a passport agency or center.

Upload a digital photo

You will need to upload an original, digital photo in .JPEG file format. This process is different than renewing by mail when you staple a paper photo to your physical application. 

• Go to our  Uploading a Digital Photo page  to see photo examples and requirements.
• Have someone else take your photo. No selfies.
• Do not scan a photo, or take a photo of an already printed photo.

Watch this video to learn how to upload a digital photo

Paying for your Passport

To complete your application, you must  pay all passport fees . Click the “Sign and Pay” button which will take you to another secure website - pay.gov – where you will pay your passport fees.  

Use your credit or debit card so we can process your payment quickly. You can also use an ACH, or Automated Clearing House payment, to transfer funds from your bank account. Processing an ACH payment may take longer than a credit or debit card.

Confirming Payment

We will send you emails about the status of your payment.

The first email will notify you that your payment is pending. The second email will confirm we processed your payment, which may take up to 3 days. If we are unable to process your payment, you will receive an email asking you to login to your account and pay again.  

Double check your spam or junk folder if you do not see the emails in your inbox. 

Keep Your Most Recent Passport

When you complete your application, you will need the passport you are renewing on hand. Keep your most recent passport. Do not mail it to us, or try to use it to travel since we will cancel it. 

Watch this video to learn how to pay online

We will send you two emails right after you pay for your passport: one will confirm your payment is pending, and one will confirm we received your payment.

One week after you apply, go to our Online Passport Status System to enroll in more email updates about the status of your application. We will notify you when your application is in process, approved, and when we send your passport. We will also notify you if we need more information to process your application. 

Our Application Status page includes details about what each status message means. 

Watch this video to learn what to do after you apply

How to get support

Request faster service or change your mailing address.

If your travel plans change, you may request expedite service for an additional $60, or 1-2 delivery of your completed passport book for an additional $21.36. One-to-two day delivery is not available for passport cards. We only send cards via First Class Mail.

If you are changing your mailing address, please note your new address must be in the United States (either state or territory). You cannot use an Army Post Office (APO) or Fleet Post Office (FPO) address.

Call the National Passport Information Center at  1-877-487-2778  . Provide your application number, or your last name and date of birth.

After you contact us, you won’t see any changes to your application in your MyTravelGov account.

Respond to a request for more information

Follow the instructions in the letter or email. You must respond within 90 days of the date on the letter or email. Our  Respond to a Letter or Email webpage  has tips and reminders on how to respond. 

Contacting us if you need help

There are two different paths for support:  

Technical Support for your Account : Contact the Login.gov team if you need help changing your password, verifying your account, or changing your account information.  

Customer Support for your Passport Application : Contact us at 1-877-487-2778 if you have an issue completing your passport application, or you want to upgrade to expedited service, 1-2 day delivery, or change your mailing address. 

Processing Times for Renewing Online

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: We do not offer this service if you are renewing online. Mail us your application and supporting documents. 

Urgent Travel:  We do not offer this service if you are renewing online. Make an appointment at a passport agency or center.

*Mailing times are not included in  processing times . Processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. 

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Employment Authorization for Certain H-4 Dependent Spouses

Certain H-4 dependent spouses of H-1B nonimmigrants can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , if the H-1B nonimmigrant:

• Is the principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker ; or
• Has been granted H-1B status under sections 106(a) and (b) of the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-first Century Act of 2000 as amended by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act (AC21).

U.S. businesses use the H-1B program to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s or higher degree in a specific specialty that is directly related to the H-1B position. In addition to specialty occupation workers, the H-1B classification applies to individuals performing services related to a Department of Defense cooperative research and development project or coproduction project, and to individuals performing services of distinguished merit and ability in the field of fashion modeling.

Visit our H-1B Visa page for more information on eligibility for the H-1B program.

You are eligible if you are the H-4 dependent spouse of an H-1B nonimmigrant if your H-1B nonimmigrant spouse:

• Is the principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers ; or
• Has been granted H-1B status under sections 106(a) and (b) of AC21. Under AC21, H-1B nonimmigrants seeking employment-based lawful permanent residence may be eligible to work and remain in the United States beyond the six-year H-1B period of admission limitation.

You must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , to request employment authorization as an H-4 dependent spouse. You must receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD/Form I-766) from USCIS before you may begin working. Use the newest version of Form I-765 to prevent delays or the need for USCIS to issue you a request for evidence.

Carefully follow these steps to prevent your application from being rejected and returned to you:

• If you are filing Form I-765 together with Form I-485, you must specify your eligibility category as (c)(9), not as (c)(26), and pay the Form I-485 filing fee. Follow the Form I-485 filing instructions to avoid processing delays.   
• If you file a Form I-765 together with a Form I-485 at the filing address for Form I-765 category (c)(26), USCIS will reject your Form I-485 and any corresponding fees. Additionally, if you included the fees for both forms on the same check or money order, USCIS may also reject your Form I-765 for category (c)(26).
• Submit supporting evidence (see chart below). Submitting sufficient supporting evidence will minimize the likelihood that USCIS will need to send you a request for more evidence.

If you submit any documents containing a foreign language to USCIS, you must also submit a full English language translation that the translator has certified as complete and accurate. The translator must also certify that they are competent to translate from the foreign language into English.

When filing Form I-765, please mail it to the proper location based on the chart below.

For your convenience, you may file Form I-765 with Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, or with both Form I-539 and the Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed for the H-1B principal nonimmigrant. However, we will not make a decision on your Form I-765 until after we have adjudicated your Form I-539 and determined whether you are eligible for the underlying H-4 nonimmigrant status, whether your spouse is eligible for the underlying H-1B nonimmigrant status, or both. Go to the Filing Form I-765 with Other Forms page for more information on filing these forms together

You will not be authorized to work until USCIS approves your Form I-765. Once your employment authorization is approved, the expiration date on your Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766 EAD) should be the same date as the expiration date on your most recent Form I-94 indicating your H-4 nonimmigrant status. Generally, you are only authorized to work through the expiration date on your EAD. If you are still eligible for employment authorization after that date, you should file for a renewal EAD by submitting another Form I-765. You cannot file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your original EAD expires

You may qualify for automatic extension of your existing employment authorization. See our Automatic Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Extension page for more information on this automatic extension.

Some unauthorized practitioners may try to take advantage of you by claiming they can file an EAD. These same individuals may ask that you pay them to file such forms. To learn the facts about how to protect yourself and your family from scams, please visit www.uscis.gov/avoidscams .