Use the State Department's standard expedited passport service if you have at least three weeks before your trip. There is an additional fee of $60, plus overnight delivery costs. If you have only one to two weeks, this service might not be available. In this case, it's best to talk to a passport agency representative before applying. If you're traveling in less than a week and the trip is not due to a life or death emergency, your best bet is to use an independent passport service. These agencies can get you a valid passport in about 24 hours, but you'll pay a couple of hundred dollars or so for this service.
Assemble the required documentation. "Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport" required if this is your first passport; you'll need "Form DS-82: Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail" if you are renewing an expired passport. See Resources to download these from the State Department's website. You'll also need evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, two passport photos -- most drugstores and post offices offer these --
and either your expired passport (for a renewal) or proof of identification (for an initial passport). Your identification is generally a valid U.S. driver's license or military ID.
For a passport renewal using the standard expedited request, mail the documentation from Step 2 to:
National Passport Processing Center
Post Office Box 90155
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155
Include a personal check or money order made out to Department of State for $140 plus the cost of overnight delivery. Check with the post office or FedEx prior to mailing. Write your full name and date of birth on the check and write the word EXPEDITED in bold letters on the front of the envelope.
If this is your first passport, submit your paperwork in person at either a passport agency or acceptance facility. Most local libraries, post offices and courthouses serve as acceptance facilities. Call first to check if an appointment is required. You'll have to pay an additional facility fee plus the cost of overnight delivery.
Follow up by phone when you are about a week from your travel date. Have a copy of your application on hand. The number for the National Passport Information Center is 877-487-2778.
