Important Due to Covid-19, processing times for passports are taking longer than normal for both standard and expedited services.
When you need a passport fast...
Is Question #19 ("Travel Plans") a required field on Form DS-11?
by Jay
(Indianapolis, IN, USA)
Question: I want to renew my passport but the exact date of departure and my length of trip are uncertain at this point. I don't understand why a document entitling me to travel abroad for 10 years requires details about a particular trip, since it may be the first of many I will take using this passport. Please explain.
Answer: You are not required to provide travel plans in order to apply for a passport unless you plan to expedite the process. Applicants who request expedited services are required to prove the need for emergency expediting.
Interestingly, this used to not be the case. An article in the June 11, 1957 issue of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette stated, "You may not ask for a passport just in order to keep it on hand, if you have no travel plans."
The U.S. government now realizes that emergencies and unexpected opportunities for travel abroad arise that require U.S. citizens to possess valid passports. The best policy is to have a valid passport on hand even if you have no immediate travel plans.
You can just write "NA" in the blanks for Question #19.
Return to Passport Application Form Questions.
Click for fast expedited courier service
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry?
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? Read them in order or click the question you most want answered.
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? Read them in order or click the question you most want answered.
UPDATE:
High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.
- Standard service is currently taking between 10 and 13 weeks.
- Expedited service is currently taking between 7 to 9 weeks.
NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Need to get a passport faster?
- Apply at a regional passport agency. An appointment is required.
- Let a reliable, registered passport courier service get your passport as quickly as the same day.
More Passport & Travel Information
Getting a Passport Expedited at a Post OfficeRequesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens. Applying at a Regional Passport Agency
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you. Using a Registered Courier Service
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly. Routine vs. Expedited Passport Service: How to Choose
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation. How to Renew a U.S. Passport Fast
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.
Follow Us!
Popular Pages
Expedited Passport Renewals
Get New Passport Fast
Passport Courier Services
Jet Lag Survival Guide