Gather all necessary documentation proving a life or death situation. According to the Department of State, the definition of such a situation includes a "serious illness, injury, or death in your immediate family that requires you to travel within 24 to 48 hours to a country that requires a passport." Have passport photos taken at a nearby photo finishing lab.
Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to set up an appointment with the closest Passport Agency.
Go to the Passport Agency at the appointed date and explain your situation to the passport officer. Present all necessary documentation to the passport officer.
Pay the emergency passport fee. As of November 2010, the fee is $157 domestically and $97 overseas. You will receive your passport within a few hours at the passport agency or consulate.
