Getting a U.S. passport can take a while—about 4 to 8 weeks. But sometimes, you need it quicker. If you’re a first-time applicant or need a replacement for a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, then expedited passport services can help. Sometimes you are in a real rush, and we completely understand. Here’s a simple guide on how and when to use these services. Once you skim the full post, you will be able to grab your passport fast without any issues.
Who Needs to Expedite Their Passport?
Some people need their passports fast for different reasons. Here are the main cases:
- First-Time Applicants: If you’re applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, it usually takes longer because they need to check your identity and documents thoroughly.
- Old Passports: If your passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you can’t just renew it—you need to apply for a new one.
- Passports Issued When You Were Under 16: If you got your passport before you turned 16, you’ll need to apply for a new one, not just renew it.
- Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports: If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, you need a new one quickly, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. You don’t want to miss your much anticipated trip!
- Newly Naturalized Citizens: If you’ve recently become a U.S. citizen, you might need a passport quickly for travel or other reasons.
Expediting Options
Depending on how fast you need your passport, there are different expediting options available:
- Emergency Service (1-3 Business Days): This is the fastest option, costing $595. It’s best for urgent situations like last-minute travel for work or a family emergency.
- Priority Service (4-5 Business Days): For $545, this option is slightly less urgent but still very quick. It’s good if you have important travel plans coming up soon but not immediately.
- Expedited Service (6-8 Business Days): This service usually costs $345 or so. It’s a good balance between speed and cost, suitable for those who have upcoming travel in a couple of weeks.
- Smart Service (9-14 Business Days): The most budget-friendly option at $195, this service is ideal if you need your passport faster than the usual processing time but don’t have an immediate need.
Is It Really Worth It?
Deciding whether to pay for expedited passport services depends on your situation. Are you in a rush? Here’s a breakdown of who should consider each option:
- Emergency Service: If you have an urgent need, such as a sudden work trip or family emergency, this option ensures you get your passport within 1-3 business days. While it’s expensive, the cost can be justified by necessity.
- Priority Service: This is a good choice if you have important travel plans within a week. It’s slightly less expensive than the emergency option but still ensures you get your passport quickly.
- Expedited Service: If your travel plans are within the next two weeks, this option offers a reasonable balance between speed and cost. It’s not as pricey as the faster services but still ensures you’re ready to go in about a week.
- Smart Service: This is the best option if you have a bit more time before your travel date. It’s the least expensive expedited option.
You’ve got many options, it seems!
Summing Up
Expedited passport services can be a lifesaver when you need your passport quickly. Whether you’re a first-time applicant, need a replacement, or have urgent travel plans, understanding the different options and their costs can help you choose the best service for your needs. By selecting the right expediting service, you can ensure you have your passport in hand when you need it most, without the stress of waiting.
