How to Expedite a Passport Card in 2 to 3 Weeks

If you need a passport card in 2 to 3 weeks and standard processing isn't fast enough, your best option is to apply for expedited processing.

You can apply for expedited processing by visiting a passport acceptance office and attending yourself or by hiring a registered passport expediting service to manage the process on your behalf.

You can also apply for an expedited passport card by mail, if you meet the requirements to do so.

This guide is exclusively for American citizens who:

• Are applying for a new passport card or need to renew an existing one;
• Want to expedite the processing of their passport card to receive it within 2 to 3 weeks;
• Don't need urgent processing, but prefer faster service than the standard processing time; and
• Are at least 16 years old*, applying for their first passport card or renewing an existing card.
  • *Visit our Minor Passport Guide for how to get expedited passport cards for minors 15 years old or younger.

How to Get an Expedited Passport Card in 5 Steps

Follow these five steps to get an expedited passport card in 2 to 3 weeks:

Step #1: Determine Eligibility

To qualify for expedited processing, the applicant must be either:

• a U.S. citizen or
• a qualifying non-citizen national.

To get an expedited passport card, the applicant must also be able to:

• Complete Form DS-11 (New Passport Card) or Form DS-82 (Renewal)
• Provide proof of citizenship and identity
• Submit a valid passport photo
• Pay all required fees

Step #2: Gather Required Documents and Fees

Documents for an Expedited Passport Card

When applying for an expedited passport card, you must prepare the following documents:

• Complete Form DS-11 (New Passport Card) or Form DS-82 (Renewal)
  • DS-11 is for first-time applicants.
    • Download Form DS-11 here
    • Complete in black ink and print clearly
    • Print single-sided pages only.
    • Important: Do not sign until instructed to do so at the acceptance facility.
  • DS-82 is for renewals or if you already hold an unexpired passport book and want to get a passport card.
    • If your previous passport card and/or passport book is currently valid or has expired within the last 5 years, you can renew by mail using this form.
    • Complete in black ink and print clearly
    • Print single-sided pages only.
    • Sign your application and mail it to the appropriate address listed on the form along with all of your supporing documents and current passport(s).
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: (e.g., certified U.S. birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Naturalization Certificate).
• Proof of Identity: (e.g., valid driver's license, state ID, previous U.S. passport, or military ID). More about acceptable proof of identity for passport applications here.
• Photocopies of all identification and citizenship documents.
  
• A Passport Photo: One recent color passport photo that meets the U.S. Department of State standards. Check our Passport Photos Guide for full details.

Step #3: Request Routine Expedited Service

To ensure your application is expedited, select the expedited processing option on your DS-11 or DS-82 form.

Please note: You will also need to pay an additional fee for this service.

Fees for an Expedited Passport Card

Expect to pay:

• Passport Card Fee
• Expedited Service Fee
• Execution (Acceptance) Fee (for first-time applicants)

Payment methods accepted:

• Check or money order
• Major credit/debit card
• Apple Pay, Google Pay

Current Fees:

Step #4: Submit Your Passport Card Application

The method in which you submit your passport card application depends on if you're applying for a new passport card or passport card renewal.

For First-Time Applicants And New Passports:

• Submit your completed DS-11 form in person at a passport acceptance facility such as a post office or library. See Find a Walk-In Passport Office Near Me to find locations.
• You will be required to take an oath before submitting your form.

Using an Expediting Service Instead? If you are unable to get to a passport acceptance office or you would prefer assistance throughout the application process, a registered passport expediter can submit your passport card application for you.

For Renewals:

• Mail your completed DS-82 form, supporting documents, and payment for the processing fee to the appropriate address.

Once your passport card application is processed and approved, your new passport card will be mailed back to you in 2 to 3 weeks.

Be advised: Your passport card will be mailed to you separately from your supporting documents.

Step #5: Track Your Passport Application

After submitting your passport card application, you can track your application's status through the U.S. State Department's Passport Status Portal.

For additional assistance, see our step-by-step guide, Tracking Your Passport Status Updates, for a full walkthrough, or contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

Quick Tips for Faster Processing

• Double-check your documents before submitting. Make sure your proof of identity and citizenship are valid and correct.
• Ensure that your passport photo meets all U.S. requirements. This is a common reason for delays.
• Use a passport expediting service if you want extra help with the process. Expediting services ensure all your documents are correctly formatted and can submit your application on your behalf.

Need Your Passport Card Fast? Make the Right Choices for Your Situation.

When time is short, it's critical to follow the right steps for submitting your passport card application the first time.

At U.S. Passport Service Guide, we've helped U.S. citizens obtain their passport cards for over 20 years.

Want a faster, easier path? Get started with a registered passport expediting service here.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers