Get a quick passport renewal through the State Department by asking for "expedited" service when mailing your passport renewal forms. Be sure to write "expedited passport renewal" on the outside of your mailing envelop, as well. The quicker service is cost $60 in addition to regular fees. Note that if your original passport was altered or excessively damaged in any way, you'll need to renew passports in person instead of through the mail.
Be sure to mail paperwork and renewal forms through an overnight delivery service. Paying the extra fee for the delivery can help you get a quick passport renewal by shaving one to two days off transit times each way. It can also give you peace of mind since you'll be able to use tracking numbers to determine if your passport application got there and when your new passport will arrive.
Contact the National Passport Information Center (877-487-2778) if you've got an absolute travel emergency that requires you to travel immediately. You'll be able to speak with a State Department representative who can help you arrange expedited passports or get a quick passport renewal.
Consider using a passport renewal service such as American Passport Express, PassportsAndVisas or TraVisa. Most offer rush or same day processing, although this extra service can cost up to $250 extra in addition to the regular passport renewal fees. Many online service providers that offer to get a quick passport renewal also feature downloadable passport applications and renewal forms on their sites for added convenience.
