Get a Passport in 24 Hours with Expedited Service

Need to get a passport in 24 hours or less? Here's what you need to know to avoid delays and frustration.

Yes, it is possible to get a passport this quickly but only if certain conditions are met. Ask yourself the following:

Do you really need to get a passport in 24 hours?

Your chances of getting an appointment increase significantly if you can wait 2-3 business days. Still, nothing is guaranteed.

Waiting a bit longer can also save you money, especially if you're considering a professional passport expediting service.

Turnaround times vary by provider, but most offer speeds similar to Rush My Passport, as shown below:

• Same-day service (1 business day)
• 2-4 Business days
• 7-9 Business days
• 3 weeks
• 6 weeks

The faster you need your passport, the more you'll pay. The more time you have, the more you'll save.

Is It Really Possible to Get a Passport in Just One Day?

Under the right circumstances, you can get your passport in one day. It depends on the type of service you need and your location.

Renewing a passport in 24 hours is usually easier than expediting a new passport. New passport applications must be submitted in person and signed in front of an authorized agent. Renewals, however, can be mailed so no in-person visit is required.

Your location plays a big role. If you're near one of the 26 regional passport agencies, you have a better chance of getting a passport urgently, whether you apply in person or get a courier to submit the application on your behalf.

These agencies are located most often in large cities like New York City, Boston, Washington DC, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, Seattle, but can also be found in some smaller cites.

U.S. citizens with proof of urgent travel or documented life-and-death emergencies are eligible for issuance in 72 hours but, most often, will be issued a passport the same day the appliction is submitted.

How to Get a Passport in 24 Hours

Now that you've deteremined that your really do need your travel document in one day and you know that it is possible, what steps do you take?

Start by trying to book an appointment at the nearest passport agency. Since you need to get a passport last minute, there may not be a slot available.

Walk-ins are not allowed to apply. Agencies and processing centers strictly adhere to this rule. You will be turned away if you show up without an appointment.

What can you do if you find yourself in this situation? Get a trusted passport courier to apply on your behalf.

You'll need to get your completed application and required documents, along with a third-party authorization letter, to the expediter you have selected the fastest way possible. Most reputable couriers have a dropoff location or you can send them by overnight delivery if you are located far away.

Wondering how an expediter does this?

Private companies that provide expedited passport services are registered with the U.S. Department of State and are given daily submission slots. They know how to navigate same-day processing. Even when no appointment is available to you, registered expediters can use one of their slots to submit your application.

Once issued, the courier will pick up your passport and deliver it to you whether by express mail or hand delivery. If necessary, some of them will even meet you at a major airport if they're nearby.

Best 24-Hour Passport Services

In a rush? Visit our list of top-rated passport expediters you can count on for urgent travel needs.

Not all passport couriers offer true 24-hour service, and quality can vary. Do your homework before choosing one.

Use a reputable, experienced provider with a solid history of delivering same-day passports, especially during peak travel periods when the number of application submitted is high.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers