Need a U.S. passport in days, not months? This guide compares expedited, urgent, and emergency passport services—processing times, fees, and exact steps—to help you choose the fastest option.
Whether you’re racing to catch an overseas job start, salvaging a last-minute vacation, or flying out for a family emergency, we show you how to:
- Cut standard processing from 6–8 weeks to as little as 24 hours
- Book a Regional Passport Agency appointment—or skip the trip with a registered passport expediter
- Assemble every form, photo, and proof of travel the State Department requires (no rejections, no delays)
✈️ Need Your Passport Fast?
Traveling soon? Get your passport in as little as 24 hours with our trusted expedited service. Or choose Priority Service for delivery in just 7–9 business days — now with 15% off.
Read on for a side-by-side chart of each service, step-by-step application checklists, and insider tips to make sure your passport is ready before wheels-up.
Comparing Expedited and Emergency Passport Services
| Passport Service | Expedited | Urgent | Emergency |
| Timeframe | 2 – 3 weeks* | Up to 10 business days* | ≈ 72 hours* |
| Application Process |
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| Additional Cost | $60** | $60** | $60** |
| Suitable Scenarios |
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*Processing windows are estimates and exclude mailing time. With a registered passport expediter you can often receive a passport in 24–48 hours.
**Always confirm the latest U.S. passport fees.
Bottom line: Expedited or urgent service works for tight—but not desperate—deadlines. Emergency service is reserved for documented life-or-death situations.
Expedited Passport Services Explained
Expedited service simply shortens the standard timeline. It’s perfect when you have firm travel 2–3 weeks away—think vacations, overseas job starts, or study-abroad programs.
- Use the regular DS-11 or DS-82 form and check “Expedite.”
- Add the $60 expedite fee and overnight shipping both ways.
- Mail renewals, or apply in person at an acceptance facility for new passports.
Need the full step-by-step? Start with:
How Urgent Passport Service Is Different
If your plane leaves in 14 days or less, you’ve entered “urgent” territory. The fastest route is through a Regional Passport Agency. Appointments are scarce, so travelers often:
- Drive / fly to the first agency with availability, or
- Hire a registered passport expediter to appear on their behalf.
Option 2 is usually cheaper once you factor in flights, hotels, and time off work. Use our guides to vet a courier:
In a rush? See our top-rated courier pick (based on 20+ years of reader feedback).
What Makes Emergency Passport Services Unique?
Emergency service is for true life-or-death travel. Proof—such as a hospital or funeral letter—is mandatory. Call the National Passport Information Center (1-877-487-2778) for a same-day agency slot; be prepared to travel to whichever office has space.
Bring all standard documents plus evidence of the emergency. Most agencies issue within 72 hours (sometimes faster). For complete details:
Getting a Limited-Validity Passport
Overseas and truly stuck? Consulates can issue a limited-validity passport good only for the immediate trip. Replace it for a full-term book once you return.
Tips for a Smooth Passport Application Process
- Perfect paperwork: Most delays stem from incomplete forms, missing proof of citizenship, or bad photos. Double-check everything before you send.
- Plan ahead: Even if you’re not traveling now, renew early—many countries require six months’ validity on arrival.
- Track status: Use passportstatus.state.gov 5–7 days after applying.
Make the Right Choice to Get Your Passport on Time
Match the service to your deadline and your stress level. For anything under three weeks, professional help from a registered expediter is often the fastest, most cost-effective route. Ready to start? Check out our top recommendation and submit your application today.
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
