Get an Expedited Passport in Washington DC

If you need a same-day passport in D.C.-whether it's for a last-minute trip, a family emergency, or a sudden opportunity-you have multiple fast-track options:

• Visit a regional passport acceptance facility (with an appointment)
• Book an appointment at the Washington, D.C. Passport Agency
• hire a registered courier service to receive a same day passport or one as quickly as you need..

We're here to guide you through all the options so you can make the best choice for your needs.

Don't live in D.C.? See our Washington, DC Passport Acceptance Facility List.

Key Takeaways

• The D.C. Passport Agency handles urgent travel (within 72 hours) and life-or-death emergencies.
• You can apply directly at the D.C. Passport Agency or use an expedited passport courier service.
• Private couriers can often secure your passport within 24-48 hours; D.C. offers a variety of private expediting locations.
• In-person appointments at the D.C. Passport Agency are required for same-day processing.

On This Page

• Expedited Processing by Mail or Facility
• D.C. Passport Agency
• Registered Passport Couriers in D.C.
• Questions and Answers
• Expert Tips to Accelerate the Passport Process

Expedited Processing by Mail or Facility

If you're unable to visit the D.C. Passport Agency or need quicker service than mail, you have two options:

• Mail: For a standard renewal, submit Form DS-82 by mail with the expedited fee. It typically takes 2-3 weeks, excluding transit time.
• Facility: For urgent needs (within 72 hours), schedule an in-person appointment at the Passport Agency via the online scheduler. If you can't secure an appointment, a registered expeditor can handle filing and often speed up processing.

Read: Apply for Expedited Passport Service through a Registered Expeditor for details.

D.C. Passport Agency

Located in Foggy Bottom, just blocks from the White House, the D.C. Passport Agency offers some of the fastest services in the country. For travel within 72 hours, you must appear in person.

• Emergency: Travel within 72 hours or visa needed within 28 days.
• Life-or-Death: Qualifying emergencies (travel within 48-72 hours).

Registered Passport Couriers in D.C.

If you can't visit the agency, a third-party courier can submit your application and supporting documents on your behalf.

A D.C.-area registered passport courier can bypass certain delays and often return your passport within 24-48 hours of processing.

Not sure who to trust? We recommend Rush My Passport, a fully authorized service partnered with FedEx Office.

Below is a list of more passport expediters in and around Washington, D.C.:

Please note: D.C. also has many FedEx locations offering courier drop-off through Rush My Passport. You'll see nearby options during the online application.

Questions and Answers

For full eligibility and document-check help, visit How to Expedite a New Passport and How to Renew a Passport Fast.

Can I switch from routine to expedited service after submitting my application? Yes, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to request an upgrade (fee applies).

How do I choose a reliable courier? Look for services registered with the Department of State, a D.C. address, verified reviews, and transparent pricing.

What happens if I make a mistake on my application? Errors-wrong form, incorrect payment, bad photo-can delay your passport. Double-check everything.

How do I track my passport application? Use the Check My Application Status tool or your courier's tracking.

How quickly can I get my passport? You can get a passport within 24 hours in person at the D.C. Passport Agency with an appointment.

Do I need an appointment at the D.C. Passport Agency? Yes, scheduling in advance is required (book here).

Can I use a courier if I don't have an appointment? Yes, couriers submit directly to the agency and track progress for you.

Expert Tips to Accelerate the Passport Process

• Check if you qualify for emergency service. Life-or-death and urgent travel slots fill quickly-have documentation (death certificate, doctor's note) ready.
• Schedule your appointment ASAP. Agency and courier slots book fast, especially during peak seasons. Book early at travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778.
• Consider a private expeditor. If you can't secure an appointment or prefer full service, private couriers can handle much of the process for you and increase your chances of getting a same day passport.
• Know where walk-ins are available. Some local post offices, libraries, and county facilities accept walk-ins for routine and expedited services-call ahead.
• Understand the full cost. Fees vary by service: application, expediting, return shipping, and courier handling. Budget accordingly.
• Double-check every detail. Small errors in forms, photos, or payments can cause major delays-review everything thoroughly.

Additional Resources

• Washington, DC Passport Acceptance Facility List
• Washington, DC Passport Offices
• Get Passport Photos in Washington, DC

D.C. ranks among the fastest U.S. cities for expedited passports. Whether you visit the Passport Agency or use a trusted courier, you'll get your travel documents on time.

Use the expert tips above to keep your application moving smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Ready to get started? Click here for dependable expedited passport services.